The state-appointed emergency manager for Detroit yanked the salary of City Council President Charles Pugh on Thursday, allowing him at the same time to keep his health benefits — for the time being
Kevyn Orr, who was brought in to investigate and oversee Detroit’s flailing finances and inept governing body, said Thursday that he’s pulling Mr. Pugh’s salary and authority, United Press International reported.
But he can keep his title and his health care plan, at least for a while. Mr. Orr also denied Mr. Pugh’s request for an emergency medical leave, UPI said.
What that means: Mr. Pugh, president of the council, can still go to meetings and vote on issues, but his votes might not be counted, said Mr. Orr’s spokesman, Bill Nowling, UPI reported.
The announcement comes a day after an attorney said that a Detroit woman is going to sue Mr. Pugh, charging he acted in an inappropriate manner to her son.
As part of his cost-cutting mission, Mr. Orr also announced on Thursday that he’s closing the Public Lighting Department, the government agency that provides electricity to Detroit facilities. DTE Energy will instead provide the service, UPI reported.
• Cheryl K. Chumley can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.