“The disregard for regulatory procedures raises serious concerns regarding transparency and accountability,” one citizen wrote.
COLLEGE PARK, Ga. — A controversial redistricting vote in College Park is renewing calls for more transparency in City Hall.
At least nine complaints alleging open meetings law violations were filed with the Georgia Attorney General's Office last month, according to a records request from 11Alive.
“This council is acting in complete disregard of its public disclosure obligations,” one citizen wrote in the complaint, alleging the City Council held a quorum meeting on March 28 without proper notice. .
“This disregard for regulatory procedures raises serious concerns regarding transparency and accountability,” another person wrote in a lengthy email regarding the March 18 redistricting vote.
The state reviewed these complaints and seven others (including four sent by the Mayor of College Park) and wrote three settlements to the city attorney. Once the city receives the response, it will review it and provide it to the complainant. Your next step depends on what the response contains.
RELATED: College Park Mayor files complaint with City Council, alleging inappropriate conduct
“I believe the only way to resolve this situation is for people on the outside to say enough is enough, or at least what's going on in College Park,” Marcia Knox said. he said. “I think the attitude of the people we have in power has deteriorated to the point of mere despondency. A lot of the events that have been happening lately seem to me to be creating an atmosphere of secrecy. .”
Neighbors in Knox and College Park are concerned about whether city council members are acting in the best interests of their constituents.
“We live here. We love this community and we want to be involved in governing our city. But unfortunately, the current leadership on the City Council is is trying to distance us from a decision that will affect this city we love for decades to come.'' Lincoln Turner said. “We are facing a very fundamental question of democracy.”
Each letter from the state includes a disclaimer saying it is not aware of all the circumstances surrounding the alleged meetings and does not assume the city violated any laws. However, they are required to respond to complaints within 10 business days.
11Alive reached out to the city attorney Thursday night but had yet to hear back as of 11 p.m. Friday.
