In a call to The Forest-Blade on Wednesday, October 3, City Administrator Herbert Middlebrooks questioned the accuracy of a story that appeared in The Blade’s October 4 printed edition, which reported on the events of the City Council meeting of October 2, 2023. Middlebrooks stated that the article misstated the results of a council vote dealing with an increase in City fees. The article recorded the vote as three in favor (Davis Sconyers and Stafford), two opposed (Collins, Quarterman) with one member abstaining (Parker). The Blade reported the motion had passed. Administrator Middlebrooks agreed that the count was correct, but his contention was that the motion did not pass.
The Blade reported that the motion had passed since it was a legally held vote with a quorum present, even though one member (Parker) abstained. The Georgia Municipal Association meeting protocol states that when a member is present but does not vote, he consents to the will of the majority. In this case, that would make the official tally four in favor, two opposed. In addition, the audio/video recording of the meeting reveals a comment by Mayor Bennett referring to council’s action, but a clear declaration of the motion passing or failing is not made. The Blade attempted to follow up with Administrator Middlebrooks, but as of press time, the administrator had not returned the call.
We believe the readers of this newspaper have confidence in the uncompromised diligence and determination that this newspaper employs in reporting the facts of any and all events. This is our mission and objective. As we strive to do this, we would ask the City to join us in that effort. The Georgia Municipal Association strongly encourages its member cities to facilitate the process of free and open communication for all government activities. In order to add clarity and avoid any confusion arising from poor auditory conditions, cross talk or other disruptions to public meetings, we would ask that city government take steps to update the electronic amplification, recording, reproduction and streaming of all public meetings. We would also suggest that official minutes of all public meetings be made available to all media the following day as has been the practice in the past administrations. It is our hope that government and media can work cooperatively on behalf of the public interest to create an environment that is supportive of all. We remain dedicated to working together for the very best interests of this community.
