Troy Councilwoman Speaks Out on City’s Decision for New Fire Chief
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The City of Troy recently named its new fire chief-Michael Stephens. But one Troy councilwoman says that decision was injustice and wants a change.
“This is about accountability,this is about transparency, this is about meetings being open and available to the public, says councilwoman Dejerilyn Henderson.
Troy Fire Marshall Willie Jones and Councilwoman Henderson are not about the decision. They say the decision was made in secret and Stephens appointment in violation of the open meetings act. Now Fire Marshall Jones, was a candidate for the position has filed a lawsuit against the city of Troy.
“I’m extremely disappointed in the lack of communication that has taken place since I’ve been on the troy city council.”
Henderson says she feels the council didn’t take into account Jones’ 35 years of experience with the department and says he just wants fairness in the selection process, not only for himself, but also the two other candidates who applied for the position.
“I wouldn’t want to be the chief now, because of the process and the way everything’s done. I really don’t feel like-My heart is not in that part anymore,”says Jones.
“I do hope and pray that this is a wake up call for the citizens of troy,and for the mayor and for my colleagues on the troy city council.”
So whats the next step in the case? Jones’ attorney shares his plan of action.
“In seventeen days from the time that the suit is filed,we’re looking at having a hearing in court primarily to establish whether or not there is good reason there was a violation of the open meetings act,” says attorney Eric Hutchins.
“We are not going to sit out and about and let injustices continue to prevail,” says Henderson.
