Tense debate over Harvard fellowship for Minneapolis City Council member

5 EYEWITNESS NEWS first reported a week ago that Minneapolis City Council member Jeremiah Ellison accepted a Harvard Fellowship in Cambridge, Mass. but was still collecting his six-figure salary while attending the paid fellowship.

Questions arise over Minneapolis City Council member’s absence for Harvard fellowship 

At a Tuesday City Council Committee of the Whole meeting, Council President Elliott Payne suggested Ellison keep his seats on two key committees while he continues his fellowship, because Ellison is still doing his city job while away.

Minneapolis City Council expected to discuss Jeremiah Ellison’s fellowship

“Including continuing to work on policy and continuing to work with his staff on addressing constituents’ concerns,” said Ellison.

City Council member LaTrisha Vetaw opposed that move. She wants to fill those two committee seats to make sure north side residents are represented fairly.

“We need a northsider to explain what just happened in these committees they just sat through. The folks who are watching from home that have multiple questions,” said Vetaw. “And, despite what Council member Cashman believes, she’s not that person. She’s not a northsider.”

Ellison has missed 12 committee and/or full city council meetings over the past month.

The full City Council is expected to take up the matter this Thursday, and Ellison is expected to attend.

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