‘This is a matter of racism’: Sparks fly during Hopewell City Council Meeting as frustrations continue over recent city terminations

HOPEWELL, Va. (WRIC) — Tensions flared at Tuesday evening's Hopewell City Council meeting, as protesters were escorted out by sheriff's deputies and one councilman voluntarily left.

The contention stems from the terminations of former city clerk Brittani Williams and former city manager Dr. Concetta Manker, from a 4 to 3 council vote on May 1.

Two rallies were held ahead of Wednesday night's meeting featuring local and national activists.

Both Manker and Williams told 8News they would not be in attendance per the advisement of their legal counsel.

PREVIOUSLY: Former Hopewell city clerk, manager seek legal counsel following terminations

The events led into the Hopewell City Council meeting, where various community members made their voices heard.

"You’re disgusting, outright atrocious," one speaker said. "The best thing that y’all can do at this point is just quit, resign, leave.

"I’m not gonna say what it looks like, but we know what it looks like," another speaker added.

(Photo: 8News)

(Photo: 8News)

(Photo: 8News)

Councilman Dominic Holloway, representing Ward 7, also spoke against the matter on the council floor, adding that the vote was on the basis of skin color, taking a jab at his fellow council members who voted in favor of the terminations.

"I call it a spade a spade, this is a matter of racism," Holloway said. "I pray for mercy for us all and grace for us all in our plight to bring you down."

8News spoke with Mayor Johnny Partin after the meeting and asked for comment on the claims made during the meeting.

"Race as they are alleging had nothing to do with this decision," Partin said. "This is a decision that we made in order to move the city forward and are focusing on operational excellence."

Holloway told council members he planned on taking legal action against them.

Stick with 8News for updates, this is a developing story.