DETROIT (WXYZ) — The Detroit Charter Commission is an elected body designed to review the city's charter. However, several recent public meetings have instead been plagued by arguments between commissioners.
A notable debate occurred during the June 22 meeting, when the Commission's Vice Chair Nicole Small and its Chair Carol Weaver got into a physical altercation. Small is seen trying to take the microphone and then the gavel from Weaver.
The heated argument started over claims of improper voting on new hires.
Back in March, not all commissioners were present for a vote; Weaver insisted the rules were followed, and that the commissioners not present chose not to be there.
Following the June 22 meeting, an assault complaint was filed with Detroit Police against Small.
Monday, she announced DPD had investigated and found no cause to move forward with a formal charge. She said the complaint was baseless. She also said, under Weaver’s leadership, the Commission has failed to uphold certain meeting standards.
“People think it’s about a conflict of personalities. No it is not. The only thing that we are saying is that you need to do the process correctly," Small said.
She had the support of two fellow commissioners at a press conference. Many community members were there too, calling for Weaver’s removal.
“She is no longer wanted as the Chair," said Brenda Hill of Detroit, there in support of Small.
DPD is often at the Commission meetings when things escalate.
Video from a Channel 7 viewer at that same June 22 meeting shows more chaos; this time a City of Detroit photographer appearing to be roughed up by someone in audience, and then chastised by a commissioner.
Commission Chair Carol Weaver released the following statement to 7 Action News in response to Small's claims.
No one deserves to feel unsafe, disagreements are alright but putting hands on another is unacceptable. In light of recent incidents at the Detroit Charter Commission meetings, the commission will vote tomorrow on a Safety Policy to ensure the safety of the public and commissioners.
