Stokes put a resolution on the agenda, asking Lumumba to take paid leave. Lumumba just sat there quietly, listening to Stokes explain why he believes stepping aside would help the city heal from the scandal.
Stokes mentioned that there’s a “cloud over the City of Jackson” because of the mayor’s indictment. He’s not accusing anyone, just saying the city needs to survive and maintain its image.
Back in November, Lumumba, along with some other officials, got federally indicted for allegedly taking bribes from developers who were supposedly interested in a downtown hotel project. Turns out, those developers were actually working with the FBI.
All three of them pleaded not guilty to a bunch of felony charges. Lumumba is accused of pushing a city employee to speed up a deadline for the project, which would have benefited the developers, in exchange for campaign donations.
After Stokes spoke, Councilman Vernon Hartley chimed in, saying he met with other officials who were concerned about the leadership in Jackson. He emphasized that the city needs to be strong and accountable.
Then, Lumumba’s chief of staff, Safiye Omari, defended him, saying the city is still functioning well. She pointed out that the council is still getting things done despite the negative attention.
Stokes didn’t take that lightly and pointed out ongoing issues in the city, like streetlights being out for ages. It was clear there was a lot of tension in the room.
Finally, Councilwoman Tina Clay said the city does have problems and needs to come together for the greater good. In the end, Stokes’ resolution didn’t pass, failing in a 3-2 vote.
So, it looks like the council is still divided on how to handle this situation, and the drama in Jackson continues.