Byrd Gets Civic Center Position

Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis recently appointed Pastor Ike Byrd as the Director of the Monroe Civic Center. Pastor Byrd, who had previously been considered by Ellis for the position of Director of Community Affairs, was turned down by a 3-2 vote from the city council. The announcement of Byrd's new appointment was controversial from the start, as there was tension between the mayor and several city council members, particularly when it appeared the mayor was bypassing the council’s approval before officially appointing Byrd.

However, with Byrd’s new role as Civic Center Director—one of the divisions under the Community Affairs Department—the Monroe Dispatch was informed that council approval is not required for this appointment. Despite this, sources indicate that the top position of Director remains open, even though someone has been running the department without being permanently selected by the mayor.

Some may describe the relationship between the mayor and the council as tumultuous since the new term began. Nonetheless, this situation could serve as an example of how governance can function effectively if both sides resolve their differences, as they ultimately need each other. The Monroe Dispatch wishes Pastor Byrd well as he continues to serve the community.