Stockbridge City Council has gone into executive session after a day-long hearing that could determine whether Mayor Jayden Williams remains in office.
City officials presented evidence alleging that Mr Williams mismanaged municipal funds and engaged in inappropriate conduct. The council is expected to consider the evidence privately before deciding whether to remove him.
The hearing, held on Saturday 12 September, followed weeks of investigation into the mayor’s conduct. The allegations include the misuse of city purchasing cards and other public resources, as well as claims concerning communications with an 18-year-old.
Mr Williams has denied wrongdoing and has challenged the process, arguing that the allegations have been treated as proven before the evidence was fully heard. His lawyer has also raised concerns about whether the proceedings are fair.
The council previously voted unanimously to restrict several of the mayor’s administrative powers while the investigation continued. Those measures removed his access to city purchasing and fuel cards, vehicles, certain non-public facilities and some direct communications with employees.
Those restrictions were described by city officials as administrative safeguards rather than a finding that Mr Williams had committed misconduct. The mayor has filed a civil lawsuit seeking to restore his powers.
A retired judge, Gino Brogdon Sr, is overseeing the removal process. Council member LaKeisha Gantt was disqualified from taking part after the judge ruled that she had shown bias towards Mr Williams; the remaining four council members are expected to decide his fate.
If the council votes to remove him, Mr Williams can appeal the decision to the Henry County Superior Court.
