Sharpsburg mayor confronted about gun violence letter | News

Cole was one of 45 Georgia mayors who signed a letter to Kemp, urging him to “act to reduce the increasing gun violence that impacts the communities that we serve.”

The letter was dated Sept. 1.

During a public comment portion of the meeting, Sharpsburg resident John Morris – a retired U.S. Marine Corps colonel – asked council members if they were aware of the letter to Kemp; whether they had reviewed, discussed or voted on it; and what their thoughts were on the matter.

Council member Tom Teagle responded that the letter to Kemp appears that “we as Sharpsburg managers have gone along with these Democratic talking points,” Teagle said.

Cole disagreed, pointing out that only mayors signed the letter, not council members. He also referred to the city charter, which requires that Sharpsburg’s mayors not align themselves with a particular political party.

“How can these be partisan talking points when (the office of mayor) is nonpartisan?” Cole asked. “A letter like this doesn’t have to be run by the council. It’s just like signing a resolution. It’s a ceremonial statement. It’s part of the job (of being mayor).”

Cole reminded council members that the letter was sent out the same day a student was arrested at East Coweta High School for possessing a loaded handgun.

“And you want to fuss at me for signing a letter that talks about reducing gun violence?” Cole asked.

Council member Alex Edge said Cole was within his rights to sign the letter. However, he said he disagreed with its contents and countered that the…