WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) -- The President of the Wausau City Council is the latest person to come out and say they don't feel there was any racism or bullying shown towards Alder Mary Thao.
Lisa Rasmussen, alder for District 7, tells the Wausau Daily Herald that Thao has a right to sit out of future closed-session meetings but doesn't think she should.
"The council values all members and the varied perspectives they bring to the group, however recent assertions about bullying and racism are not accurate and the council has been accused of conduct and intentions that did not occur. Mary (Thao) is, and will always be welcome on the common council, and I encourage her to participate actively in all meetings to ensure that her district is represented," said Rasmussen in a written statement to the Daily Herald.
Thao, who represents Wausau's Tenth district, has vowed to stay out of all future closed-door meetings until the council can create a safe space for all. She also wants her fellow council members to have an understanding of policies and procedures.
RELATED: Thao claims racism, bullying on city council
The quarrel stems from Thao asking for a roll call vote during a closed meeting in August but had that request denied in favor of a voice vote. Thao sought outside legal counsel on the matter, and after several sit-down meetings with city officials and fellow council members, it was agreed that roll-call votes could be taken in closed session.
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