Tensions were high at the beginning of the called session of the City Council in Demorest Tuesday night. In an audience packed with supporters of former City Manager Juanita Crumley, several residents stood to make comments on her behalf. They expressed support for Crumley and wanted to know the reasons behind her recent demotion to City Clerk.
Two speakers questioned comments made by former City Councilwoman Florence Wikle during a work session on December 29. Wikle has been an outspoken critic of Crumley’s performance as City Manager since it’s been revealed nearly $600,000 is missing from the city’s water fund. Mayor Rick Austin made clear to the audience that Wikle’s comments had not affected his opinion on the issue. Councilman John Popham commented, “Juanita’s problem is that she is too nice.” Mayor Austin then reminded the crowd that all residents of Demorest were entitled to make their voice heard, but that did not mean that everyone would agree all the time.
In other business, Resident Wesley Yearwood brought forward questions concerning his water bill. His first bill was for more than 5 months of service and then the next bill, he questioned as well. Mayor Austin reassured Yearwood that the matter would be investigated and that Yearwood would hear back within 24 hours.
The Council then went into executive session around 7pm. Ten minutes later Crumley exited the meeting and stood in the cold with her family and supporters. She was called back into the closed door meeting at 8:30pm. Council reconvened in open session thirty minutes later. The meeting was then quickly adjourned.
For more details and video of Tuesday night’s meeting see Crumley’s future with Demorest uncertain.
