Illegal Action of Warren City Council Attempts to Target and Remove City Attorney

The Warren City Council action attempts to target Warren’s most prominent and highest ranking African American Official in Warren City Government.

Last night, the Warren City Council, in a hastily called special meeting that violated Governor Whitmer’s executive order regarding how local government should operate during our current emergency, took actions that would embarrass a banana republic.

At a time when Warren families are struggling with job losses, health concerns and how they will feed their families, the city council instead focused on stripping authority from Warren City Attorney Ethan Vinson, a lawyer with a distinguished 45 year legal career, and hire their own attorney, an action which violates our sacred city charter. I informed the council in a letter of the illegality of this action before the meeting and warned for it not to be taken. Attached is the letter I sent them.

This disparate and unlawful action targeting the highest ranking African American employee in Warren city government is unconscionable. I will take every action within my legal authority as Mayor to defend our city attorney and the rule of law. I also encourage City Attorney Vinson to take every action available to him as an individual to defend his position, his honor and most importantly, his dignity.

All six members of the city council who supported this course should be ashamed. I applaud Councilmember Angela Rogensues for questioning and opposing this illegal action. This will not stand.

Office 586-574-4520, Cell 586-481-0545, Home 586-573-8058.

Sincerely,

Mayor James R. Fouts
City of Warren
One City Square- Suite 215
Warren, MI 48093-6726
586-574-4520
mayor@cityofwarren.org
www.cityofwarren.org