Overview:
Covered by Documenter Jackie Jantzi (notes)
New members sworn in to Akron City Council
Five new Akron City Council members took the oath of office in front of a chamber filled with family and friends following the regular City Council meeting Monday.
The November election saw all 13 positions in play, but most incumbents retained their seats. Some upsets and the election of Ward 8 Council Member Shammas Malik to mayor mean that several new faces will join council in January.
They are:
- Jan Davis, Ward 4
- Johnnie Hannah, Ward 5
- James Hardy, Ward 8
- Tina Boyes, Ward 9
- Eric Garrett, At-Large
The regular council meeting, held earlier than normal to accommodate the swearing-in ceremony, featured praise and gratitude for outgoing Council Members Russel C. Neal Jr., Tara Mosley, Malik, Freeman and Ginger Baylor.
Council returns to regular meetings Jan. 8 at 6:30 p.m. (Please note the earlier start time.)
To find your ward and connect with your council member (new or returning), go here.
Discontent continues over new public comment rules
Despite changes coming to council’s public comment period in January, speakers were undeterred at this meeting, the first since council voted Dec. 4 meeting to amend their procedures. Several rose to speak against the upcoming changes.
The new rules allow only 10 speakers per meeting and move the public comment period to the start of the meeting as opposed to the end where it currently is.
In addition, about 15 pro-Palestinian protesters picketed outside of Akron City Hall. Another pending change forbids signs, flags and banners in council chambers.
