Title
Resolution to Reprimand Councilmember Hayner for Violation of Council Ethics Rule 13 (7 Votes Required)
Body
Whereas, on May 12, 2021, an article written by journalist Samuel J. Robinson entitled “Jeff Hayner not backing down from debate over offensive language as recall petition moves forward,” was posted on MLive;
Whereas, Mr. Robinson reported that Councilmember Hayner “used the n-word in its entirety,” stating that “he prefers to use the ‘actual words’ instead of abbreviations or euphemisms;
Whereas, It is also reported that in the same interview, Councilmember Hayner repeated the n-word, elaborating on his view that “these words just don’t go away because people who are offended by them”;
Whereas, The presence of a Councilmember who voices racial slurs creates harm to the community, distances community members from their government, and degrades the efficacy of local government;
Whereas, A complaint requesting reprimand of Councilmember Hayner for his use of this language was filed by Councilmember Grand with the Chair of the Council Administration Committee;
Whereas, At the direction of the Council, a Rule 12 Ethics Hearing was held on August 4, 2021 to review the complaint and report for reprimand under Council Ethics Rule 12(4)(d)(ii); and
Whereas, At the hearing, the Council Administrative Committee presented evidence of the alleged conduct and Councilmember Hayner attended and presented a defense;
Resolved, That having heard the evidence presented during the hearing, Council find that it is more likely than not that Councilmember Hayner used racial slurs in violation of Council Ethics Rule 13;
Resolved, That the Ann Arbor City Council reprimand Councilmember Hayner for the use of racial slurs in violation of Council Ethics Rule 13.
Sponsors: Councilmember Grand