On November 18, 2016, The US Department of Justice sent a letter to the City of Eastpointe alleging that its at-large system of electing City Council violated the Votings Rights Act. Following this letter, the City held a rare Press Conference, sharing the details of the letter with the public, inviting residents, community leaders and the news media to take part. On January 10, 2017, the US Deparatment of Justice filed suit (4:17-cv-10079). Throughout this process, the City has been gatherings as many thoughts and opinions on the issue to come up with the best outcome that it can.
Timeline
- November 18, 2016: The City of Eastpointe receives a letter from the US Department of Justice alleging that its at-large system of electing City Council violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, 52 U.S.C ยง 10301.
- December 15, 2016: The City of Eastpointe holds a Press Conference sharing the letter with residents, community leaders, and the news media.
- December 20, 2016: Residents share their thoughts about the US Department of Justice's letter at the City Council meeting's Hearing of the Public.
- January 3, 2017: A formal Public Hearing is held to hear further opinions from the public. More than 30 people speak at the hearing.
- January 10, 2017: The US Department of Justice files the actual lawsuit (complaint) in Federal District Court.
- January 17, 2017: The City Council, at its next scheduled meeting, announced that the US Department of Justice filed its lawsuit.
- March 10, 2017: Answer to lawsuit complaint due.
- ...
- March 27, 2019: Opinion released regarding Motion for Summary Judgment, and three other motions. The City was denied their Motion for Summary Judgment.