Return to May 10, 2021, Detroit City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting, 2:00pm
Live reporting by Lynelle Herndon
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Discussion on how to fill vacant after Gabe Leland's resignation, which was effective May 3.

Lynelle @AnndWhat
There are disagreements in the interpretation of the language in Section 3-105 of the charter...
(page 26)
detroitmi.gov/sites/detroitm…

01:46 PM May 10, 2021 CDT

Lynelle @AnndWhat 2/11
And there is a question about I think the time period between appointment and assuming the position. And then there is a question about whether or not a primary election is required https://t.co/EKtPWjBn7u
Lynelle @AnndWhat 3/11
Then there was a question about whether or not the Council could demand outside counsel, because Council President requested an election lawyer to analyze and report back since she disagreed with Corporation Council's assessment...
Lynelle @AnndWhat 4/11
Corporation Council agreed to consult an election lawyer, though he was not required to since there was no dissenting opinion from counsel and because he wasn't representing anyone's interests, just interpreting the legislation.

A motion was passed for that outside consult.
Lynelle @AnndWhat 5/11
Member Ayers wants to know if they are planning to have another meeting after everyone gets back with their opinions, because how are they supposed to make a sound decision without that information? https://t.co/bAvmb7QcsK
Lynelle @AnndWhat 6/11
President Jones says maybe they will make some new rules or suspend some rules, but something has to be done...
Mr. Whitaker (LPD) agrees suspending the 60-day rule is a possibility. But first they have to decide are they going through an appointment process or election process
Lynelle @AnndWhat 7/11
Whitaker says it's better to just wait the 180 days until general election. It's not new; they can operate without the other person; half that time they will be in summer recess.
Lynelle @AnndWhat 8/11
Jones jokes maybe she and the other members not seeking reelection just resign now too

detroitnews.com/story/news/loc…
Lynelle @AnndWhat 9/11
But really, Jones agrees they have been in this position before, and with two at-large members the Council will still be able to liaison and serve the citizens of District 7 [until the seat is filled at the election in November]
Lynelle @AnndWhat 10/11
Question is about filling the position versus actually starting the position. I suppose that is still the question for the time after the election and before the term. https://t.co/NaRU3sMoqP
Lynelle @AnndWhat 11/11
Meanwhile, Member Tate and others feel like if they do decide to appoint someone, it should not be someone who will also be on the ballot in November.