Glennville residents demand accountability after video shows city leaders making derogatory comments

GLENNVILLE, Ga. (WTOC) - In a fiery exchange of words at Glennville City Hall, the message from many in the crowd was loud and clear: they want accountability.

“It was a betrayal of the public trust,” Glennville resident Joanne Anderson said during her public comment time to city council.

The controversy stems from a video that surfaced from April 28, showing Mayor Bernie Weaver, council members Marcus Noble, Tammy Waters, and Greg Janeczek talking city business and making derogatory comments about councilwoman Cynthia Miller and well known resident Zuber Malek, including calling him a “terrorist.”

“These things cause pain and embarrassment and division to our community,” a Glennville church member said during public comment.

One after another, people stepped up to the mic. Some demanded resignations. Others called for changes like live-streaming meetings so the public can watch what happens in real time, not after it hits social media.

While most speakers called for leaders to step down, one woman stood up with a different message, saying mistakes happen and that the city needs to move forward, not stay stuck in the same fight.

“This city council has a very good record. I feel like we need to come together as a city and heal from this instead of continuing to drag it up,” Glennville resident Donna Blocker said.

During Blocker’s speech, she mentioned that people make mistakes and say things they regret. As the crowd began to respond, Blocker turned to them and asked if anyone had ever said something they wished they could take back.

Blocker doesn’t believe those city leaders should step down, but not everyone was on the same page.

“My number one request on the list would be for all of them to resign. That’s what I would like to see them to do. Resign and step down,” Anderson said.

Right before heading into closed session, councilwoman Cynthia Miller, who was referenced in that recording, spoke during council comments, thanking the people who showed up while some city leaders didn’t have much to say.

“Wanted to thank everybody for coming out tonight. It just looked real good in here. This is your city, you’re concerned about what’s going on, and I appreciate you all for coming out,” Miller said.

Nobles responded positively to the crowd’s interest in streaming public hearings. Greg Janeczek stated, “no comment,” while Waters also offered no comment at this time.