Council directs city attorney to review former city attorney's emails; motion passes 6-3

Council member Newlands moved — and Council member Whitaker seconded — a motion directing the city attorney to review whether any official emails were forwarded to a personal email account or deleted by former City Attorney Jay Stroman during his employment, and to report back on any findings, including whether ethical violations occurred and what options council could take. After debate over scope and purpose, the motion passed 6-3.

Council members who opposed the motion asked for specifics about what prompted the review and whether the directive would entail a broad sweep of council members' emails; supporters said they did not accuse anyone of wrongdoing but wanted to "protect the city's interest" and ensure FOIA and ethical obligations were upheld. Council member Newans said the review would protect the city if records were missing and could reveal FOIA retention issues. The city attorney explained that a non-disparagement clause in a separation agreement would create a cause of action if violated; she said any enforcement would be litigated in circuit court.

What happens next: The city attorney's office is directed to perform the review and report back to council with any findings and recommended options for action. The motion was recorded as passing 6-3.