"I received this unsigned opinion forwarded to me by an assistant city manager explaining why the recordings would not be made public after all."

Why did the City reverse itself on releasing video of the July 4 (alleged) melee?

Comments

[Roch]

Thanks, Ed.

Local media reported the claims that there was a crowd of "about 1,000 people" and "as many as 20 to 30 fights were occurring at any given time." It seems to me they would have an interest in having this video made public to see if what they reported aligns with what happened;

as would city councilor Matheny who sees the (alleged) melee as a reason to reinstate a curfew;

as would other city council members who pledged transparency in their election campaigns;

as would city staff who say they want to be "as forthcoming as possible;"

as would the public at large.

An anonymous legal reason why the city is not compelled to release the video, contradicting the promises of the city manager to do so, seems trivial and contrary to the greater public interest.

[Bryan]

In spite of what candidates and elected officials say governments hate transparency. The city is not releasing the video, because it is not in the city government's interest to release the video. Maybe the city is afraid that some activists will claim excessive force was used. However if the city council really wanted the video released, it could certainly release it.

[sittinginthemiddle.]

"as would city councilor Matheny who sees the (alleged) melee as a reason to reinstate a curfew;"-Roach

Matheny is also pushing a new downtown club security ordinance that has not been released to the public yet. Apparently, Mr.Matheny believes the answer to every problem is more government control. Soon everyone will be regulated to within five feet of their residence unless they are protected by a licensed security guard.

[prell]

"Apparently, Mr.Matheny believes the answer to every problem is more government control. "

Isn't that what you want too, Jodi? I mean, you and your ilk want the government to have total say and control over the issue of marriage. Doesn't get more personal and controlling than that.

[John Amberg]

The Perkins-led city council will not release this video or any video that makes downtown Greensboro appear less desirable. Remember, they are all in on puttin the proposed performing arts center in....downtown Greensboro.

Nope, nothing to see here. Move along.

So how's that Perkins-led city council working out for you?