WARREN — A city council meeting turned tense Wednesday when Councilman James Shaffer, D-4th Ward, used a swear word during a discussion about public comments.

The exchange was directed toward resident and community organizer Lea Dotson, who previously criticized Councilman Greg Greathouse, D-3rd Ward, during the public speaking portion of the Feb. 26 meeting.

Shaffer addressed Dotson’s remarks during the Wednesday meeting, stating, “They can come in here and (expletive) at us, but we can’t say nothing back?”

Shaffer’s comment was met with immediate backlash from fellow council members. Dotson, who was in the crowd, demanded an apology.

Councilman Todd Johnson, I-1st Ward, and Helen Rucker, D-at Large, called for an apology, with Johnson stating, “We will not curse at our residents. This is a chamber of decorum. They have three minutes to speak their peace.”

Shaffer apologized for the comment.

Johnson addressed the incident, stating, “People have the right to speak here, and we try to give latitude on both sides, but we must also uphold decorum.”

Council President John Brown said, “No accusations of illegal conduct are allowed, but residents have the right to express their opinions, even if we disagree.” Brown also acknowledged the need for council members to handle criticism professionally. “We all get heat at some point, but we can’t take time every week to respond to something said the week before. We’d be here all night,” he added.

Also at Wednesday’s meeting, Safety Service Director Eddie Colbert announced that contractors are working to ensure the amphitheater will be operational for summer programming, including the African-American Achievers festival concert. Colbert said construction will primarily occur on weekdays to allow for weekend events.

Colbert also addressed concerns about the city’s spring cleanup efforts, noting that pothole repairs and park maintenance are ongoing.

“We want to take advantage of this nice weather, but we ask for patience as we clean up from a tough winter,” he said.

The meeting also featured discussions about transparency and public access.

Warren resident Debra Magos urged council members to install cameras and live-stream meetings, a request that has been under consideration for several years.

Brown acknowledged the interest in live streaming but noted that cost remains a barrier.

“We’ve looked into systems, but they are very expensive,” Brown said. “If needed, we will hold a council-as-a-whole meeting to discuss this further.”

The meeting concluded with the passage of several ordinances, including updates to the city’s credit card policy and appropriations for various city funds.