CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Mayor Danny Jones’ decision to dismantle a Charleston homeless community earlier in the day led to flared tempers at the city’s council meeting Tuesday evening.
Jones had announced the decision to remove the people living at “Tent City” along the Elk River at a news conference Tuesday afternoon, leading to infuriated residents at City Hall demanding an explanation.
Brooke Drake, after being denied an opportunity to speak at the end of the meeting, screamed at Jones as he walked out escorted by an officer.
“Danny Jones handled it in an extremely poor manner,” she said. “He did not act like a person who has been voted into office by members of this town. He blatantly disregarded people’s questions, wouldn’t acknowledge people were speaking; interrupted people in the middle of their sentences.”
Several members of council voiced their concerns. Chuck Overstreet wanted to see speakers given more respect.
“As a Christian I felt offended that these folks who are Christian and believe in giving and taking care of folks; no matter if they’re from Belle, Hurricane or Huntington, well-doing doesn’t stop at the city limits,” said Overstreet.
Ezekiel Ellis, who had lived at Tent City, spoke as a representative of those who had been told to leave earlier in the day.
“I got up there and just said what you’re doing is wrong,” he said. “You all want to say a prayer to God (before council), and you don’t want to do what he asks you to do.”
John Meadows of Belle, who said he had done a lot to help people at Tent City get through the cold winter, said the matter should have been handled better.
“Seemed like something was done so quickly and not well thought out,” Meadows said. “If there were any legitimate concerns about Tent City being down there for whatever reason; safety, hazard; whatever. There is a correct way to do anything and this was not it.”
An additional police presence is expected at the area, which is owned by Waste Management, in the coming days.
Jones said Tuesday afternoon that those who refuse to leave or return to the site could face trespassing charges.
“This isn’t a game. We’re not playing ‘mayor’. This is a real thing that he’s doing,” Drake said.