Fountain City Fallout: City Council Appointment Sparks Public Outcry

If you've been reading the news or scrolling on social media lately, you have probably noticed that there is quite a chatter in the Fountain City this week.

After a startling outburst by John Anker on Tuesday, Mar. 11, 2025, at the bi-monthly Columbus Council meeting calling for the termination of City Manager Isaiah Hugley, things began to follow suit in a downward spiral.

The community was read a letter detailing the resignation of Councilwoman Judy Thomas, and saddened by this news, her constituents immediately sought to replace her to fill the void in their hearts.

Councilman Byron Hickey began a string of motions by nominating John Anker as Thomas's replacement, although Anker was denied by the community in two elections for the councilman at-large seat, Councilman Hickey still backed his nomination.

"I believe he is the best candidate for District 9," Hickey said.

Other council members, including Toyia Tucker, Glenn Davis and Charmaine Crabb, agreed and the appointment was set in stone.

Numerous voters in attendance were outraged at the lack of consideration shown by overriding and, ultimately, silencing the voices of the community.

A review of Georgia’s open meetings law suggests the council may have failed to provide adequate public notice before taking action. According to the law, special meetings under extraordinary circumstances require reasonable notice to the public, including to media outlets that have requested such information.

The council’s swift move to push the decision forward raises questions about whether proper procedures were followed and the legalities of their actions.

Among those requesting to delay the immediate appointment was Mayor Skip Henderson who felt the action was occurring too soon.

"(It's) probably a little early just yet to fill that seat. There's probably a number of discussions that will take place,” Henderson said during Tuesday’s meeting. "I would ask you to just wait until the next meeting to let everyone digest what has occurred here today."

Still, City Attorney Clifton Faye informed the Mayor and Council that the proceedings were in line with the city charter, and after securing a 6 - 3 vote, Anker was appointed on the spot as the new councilman for District 9.

Much concern also has begun to circulate, particularly in communities of color, after Anker publicly ridiculed Hugley by calling for his immediate termination and casting allegations of poor leadership and nepotism.

These allegations resulted in an emergency press conference organized by the Columbus NAACP and the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance on Wednesday, Mar. 12, 2025, where numerous city leaders and residents voiced their concerns.

"John Anker had the opportunity but lost his race. How dare six city council members subvert the will of the voters," National NAACP Board Member Ed DuBose said. "When you subvert the will of the people, the power of the people will stand up to you. Hands off our City Manager!"

Another voice of leadership in this debate is that of the Rev. Dr. Johnny Flakes.

"What are they afraid of? Why are they so afraid of Isaiah Hugely, that they would have to slander his name, tarnish his image and plant seeds of doubt?" Flakes asked.

Despite the public outcry, Anker continues to prepare for his surprise appointment and denies any personal issues against Hugley.

"I never said he was incompetent," Anker said. "The City Manager is a very smart man. He has done some good things. I am not going to comment on anything else right now."

Attempts to obtain comments from other council members who supported Anker's appointment were unsuccessful before press time.

As Anker's swearing-in approaches, community members are encouraged to continue their advocacy for transparency and fairness in local government at the upcoming Columbus Council meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Mar. 25, 2025, at the City Services Center located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Ga. 31906.