Flint’s emergency manager is calling for the resignation of a city councilman who was arrested last weekend for driving under the influence. The councilman says he won’t resign.
Councilman Eric Mays was arrested and charged with DUI and marijuana possession early last Saturday along I-475 in Flint.
Emergency Manager Darnell Earley cited the arrest and other reasons why Mays should resign from the seat he was elected to just last month.
“Mr. Mays’ continued presence on council during the pendency of these charges will severely hamper my ability to have open and frank discussions with other council members. And will eliminate my ability to have any meetings with him in a one-on-one setting,” Earley told reporters today.
Earley says Mays has become a distraction, just as the city is poised to begin emerging from state oversight. City leaders hope to have a transition panel appointed next year. Flint has been under an emergency manager since 2011.
Shortly after Earley called for the resignation, Mays told reporters he won't resign.
“I think it is ridiculous to be talking to me about resignation and I’m an innocent man,” Mays told reporters, “I can see their motive politically. It has nothing to do with legalities. It has nothing to do with my behavior. These are political trumped up charges.”
Mays made vague allegations of political and police corruption during his news conference.
Earley declined to say what he would do if Mays refused to resign.
