St. Helens citizens criticize Mayor Massey for censoring public comment and transparency

The St. Helens City Council held a regular session on February 20, 2025, where public comments dominated the agenda, reflecting community concerns about transparency and accountability within the local government and police department.

The meeting began with a series of public comments, where citizens expressed their frustrations regarding the council's handling of public discourse and executive sessions. One speaker emphasized the importance of public comment, asserting that council members are compensated to listen to constituents, and criticized any attempts to limit this engagement as hypocritical. This sentiment was echoed by others who voiced strong opposition to the idea of censoring public comments, arguing that such actions undermine the principles of accountability and transparency that elected officials should uphold.

Several speakers praised Chief Hogue for his role as a whistleblower within the St. Helens Police Department, calling him a "hometown hero" and urging the council to make his position permanent. This support came amid concerns about the integrity of the police department and the council's decision-making processes, particularly regarding a recent police investigative report that some felt was mishandled.

The discussion also touched on the lack of local media coverage, with residents highlighting the importance of the COHAI radio show as a vital source of information in the absence of traditional newspapers. This point underscored the community's reliance on alternative media to stay informed about local issues.

As the meeting progressed, tensions rose regarding the mayor's involvement in executive sessions and the perceived lack of transparency in council decisions. One speaker accused the mayor of undermining the police chief and called for accountability from the council members, suggesting that they should be prepared for potential changes in leadership.

Overall, the session highlighted significant community unrest regarding governance and the need for open dialogue between the council and its constituents. The council's next steps will likely involve addressing these concerns and fostering a more transparent environment for public engagement.