In a statement issued to Cleveland residents, Mayor Justin Bibb addressed the recent resignation of Phil McHugh, a controversial hire for a new public safety position in the city. The announcement comes after widespread community backlash surrounding McHugh's appointment and his past involvement in a civil rights lawsuit.

Acknowledging the pain and concerns voiced by the community, Mayor Bibb emphasized the complexities of issues such as race, discrimination, and privilege. As a Black man born and raised in Cleveland, with a deep commitment to civil rights and social justice instilled by his grandparents, Bibb expressed his vision of creating equitable change.

While recognizing the importance of effective leadership and diverse perspectives, particularly in addressing public safety concerns, Mayor Bibb acknowledged that McHugh's past had become a growing distraction and source of community concern. As a result, McHugh himself expressed that he would not be able to effectively fulfill his role in such an environment.

Despite this setback, Mayor Bibb reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of Cleveland residents. He emphasized the pivotal moment the city is currently experiencing and vowed to do everything in his power to deliver effective solutions for the community.

McHugh's hiring had sparked controversy due to his close ties with Mayor Bibb, having been his former roommate. Additionally, concerns were raised about his involvement in a civil rights lawsuit stemming from his work as a detective in Washington, D.C. The lawsuit was later dismissed and settled, and McHugh maintained that he faced no internal discipline and had even been promoted following the incident.

City council members Richard Starr and Kevin Conwell publicly condemned McHugh's appointment, urging Mayor Bibb to terminate his employment. They claimed that a more thorough background check would have revealed the civil lawsuit, implying that McHugh should not have been hired in the first place.

However, McHugh asserted that he was not asked about the lawsuit during his interview and that it was settled years ago. City Hall officials had previously stated that they were aware of the lawsuit and had sought feedback from McHugh's former employers, who had spoken highly of his performance.

The controversy surrounding McHugh's hiring has shed light on the process of vetting and selection for important city positions. As Cleveland continues to grapple with ongoing challenges and the need for innovative public safety solutions, Mayor Bibb's commitment to addressing these concerns remains steadfast.

Mayor Bibb's statement serves as a call to the community to unite in their efforts to create meaningful change and ensure the safety and well-being of Cleveland residents. It also underscores the importance of transparent and thorough hiring processes in order to maintain public trust and confidence.