Commission Approves Recall Language Filed Against Benton Harbor Mayor

bhcityhall-68
bhcityhall-68

The Berrien County Election Commission has approved recall petition language filed against Benton Harbor Mayor Marcus Muhammad. The commission on Monday determined the language filed on November 17 by resident Quacy Roberts was clear enough for the effort to move forward. The petition states Muhammad should be recalled for “voting yes for a state of emergency.” Presumably, that refers to the state of emergency approved by the Benton Harbor City Commission on October 18 due to the ongoing problem with lead in the drinking water of some residents. The city commission approved the move to give Muhammad emergency powers to take more action to resolve the problem. Now that the recall language has been approved, Muhammad has a ten day appeal period. Roberts will have 60 days to collect at least 595 petition signatures. That 60 day period can start at any time in the next 180 days. If enough of the petition signatures are determined to be valid, the recall election would take place. A Berrien County Election Commission set for December 6 regarding the fourth petition filed by Roberts is still scheduled.