The McComb city board approved the creation of three new positions Tuesday, two of which will be temporary solutions to replacing former city administrator Quordiniah Lockley.
The mayor also took time to listen to two speakers who have been a part of recent protests against Lockley’s firing.
The vote was unanimous to create two deputy city administrators and a new financial officer position. Two current employees will fill the three posts.
The city’s comptroller Janice Dillon is one of the deputy city administrators and is taking over as chief financial officer and director of finance.
Dillon’s deputy city administrator duties will cover the departments of Administration and Zoning, Inspection and Permits.
Director of Parks and Recreation Joseph Parker is taking charge as the other deputy city administrator.
Parker will be in charge of the public works, police, fire and recreation departments. He and Dillon will remain in their former jobs while handling the additional responsibilities.
Selectman Donovan Hill asked Mayor Whitney Rawlings about the positions, which the board discussed at its work session on May 5.
“These are temporary assignments, is that right?” Hill asked.
“Yes, they are only in place until we find a replacement to serve as the city’s administrator,” Rawlings said.
In opposition to the creation of these positions, and the firing of Quordiniah Lockley, Devonte Johnson and Vernell Simmons were given the floor at the beginning of the meeting to voice their concerns.
Each mentioned the firing of Lockley, but mostly spoke about the powers of the mayor and selectmen.
“My understanding is that you all serve this city for the people, and by the people. You have turned a deaf ear to democracy,” Simmons said.
Johnson, a candidate for Pike County supervisor, claimed that the mayor was operating beyond his boundaries.
“In May of 2009, the powers of the mayor were repealed,” he said, “and the mayor should not be involved in day-to-day activities of the city.”
Johnson charged that the mayor’s actions were illegal, that he could not act as city administrator, but state law and city policy does allow the mayor to take over those duties under special circumstances.
Rawlings listened until the speakers were finished and then moved on to the business of the city without any comments or reaction.
There will be a work session at 5 p.m. Tuesday. City Hall will be closed Monday, May 25 to observe the Memorial Day holiday.
The next board meeting is Tuesday, May 26 at 5:30 p.m. preceded by a briefing at 5 p.m.
