The Lansing City Council is denouncing councilmember Brandon Betz and recommending his resignation after he sent harassing text messages to a Black Lansing activist.
In a unanimous vote Monday night, The Lansing City Council approved a resolution to censure 1st ward councilmember Brandon Betz and remove him from his committee assignments. The resolution also calls for Betz to resign.
Councilmember Carol Wood questioned Betz’ ability to lead.
“We know that we do not have the ability to remove him from office," said Wood. "But this is egregious enough that we think he should resign.”
Betz did not attend the meeting.
The vote comes several days after a text message interaction between Betz and local Black activist Michael Lynn Jr. became public. In the messages Betz, who is white, uses profanity and racially insensitive language towards Lynn.