COLLEGE PARK, Ga. — College Park residents said they're frustrated over a lack of city council turnout. The legislative body failed to reach a quorum for the second straight week.
"Where are they? What role are they playing if they're not coming to the city council meetings?" said Betsey Eastman. "As citizens of this city, we're paying you to do your job."
Council members Roderick Gay and Joe Carn didn't attend the regularly scheduled meeting on Nov. 20. They also didn't attend the special called meeting on Nov. 27. At least one of them has to be present for council to reach a quorum.
"The special called meeting on Monday, Nov. 27 was not a planned meeting and was not on my schedule," Carn told 11Alive. "It simply was an example [of] 11th hour shenanigans, which would have included add-on items with inappropriate ethical conflicts."
He did not specify what those were, why he missed the first meeting or whether he plans to attend future ones, like the meeting scheduled for Dec. 4.
Gay did not address 11Alive's email, but instead forwarded a note from Sarita Kelly, who said she lives in his ward.
"We, the people, stand behind Councilman Gay's position on this matter. We elected him, and we urge individuals to cease harassing both him and his black colleague," Kelley wrote. "It raises concerns when individuals like Councilman Allen, who have been voted out, continue to hold their seats and make decisions."
Jake Rothschild is concerned the lack of attendance will prevent council from voting on a number of measures, including the city's legislative priorities for 2024, expanded speeding tables and holiday bonuses for employees.
"If they can't do their job, we'll find people who can," he said. "This is inexcusable. It's unconscionable."