Council budget meeting erupts after councillor’s disparaging comment deemed misogynistic.
The council set aside funds for new programs that should save money later. These programs focus on children and adult social care costs, as these areas put a lot of strain on the budget.
Councillor Carol Gahan presented the budget, stating it was created during hard times. However, she believes it is innovative, hopeful, and invests in the community.
Conservative Councillor Lynn Gibbon disagreed with the budget. She said national decisions are hurting residents and that the budget lacks financial clarity; she stated it needs foresight, not just hope.
Gibbon then referred to “Carol from accounts.” Gahan felt it echoed attacks on Rachel Reeves, clarifying that her name is Carol Gahan, a councillor, and calling the remark a misogynistic attack.
The council asked Gibbon to retract her comment, but she refused, saying it was okay. Council chair Robert Bisset then spoke to Gibbon and expressed his personal disappointment in her comments.