Recall language against Flint City Councilwoman denied

Flint, MI — The Genesee County Election Commission rejected recall language to launch efforts to remove 6th Ward Flint City Councilwoman Tonya Burns from her seat, saying it lacked clarity.

Four petitions pointing to “behavior, actions and inaction,” as well as Burns meeting attendance, were denied by the Commission on Dec. 11, 2024, but petitioner Sandra L. Smith says the same language had been accepted before.

“They were being very nitpicky,” said Smith, who submitted the language on Nov. 22. “We had used the same language that was used to recall Dennis Pfeiffer and other members of council that they had accepted. So we tried to follow that same language.”

In the language, Smith references Burns’ 30-day censure for “conduct unbecoming of a council person” as well as her refusal to take her elected seat during two special meetings called by Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley.

Burns responded to the allegation of inappropriate conduct, saying: “What is conduct unbecoming? Fighting for the people? Am I wrong for that?”

Smith, the sister of 4th Ward Councilwoman Judy Priestly, says she will resubmit petitions with clearer language.