BOSTON — Boston City Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson believes that she can continue to do her job despite calls for her resignation. It’s the recent accusations of stealing from city programs that have the council considering a change.
Tania Fernandes Anderson is back to work after pleading not guilty to federal embezzlement charges. The second-term city councilor pledges to remain in her seat despite several calls for her resignation.
“I say onward with the people’s work,” Fernandes Anderson said before the meeting.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Fernandes Anderson orchestrated a kickback scheme by giving a $13,000 bonus to an employee who is also a family member, with the understanding that she would get $7,000 in cash.
Fernandes Anderson says she can’t answer any questions about the case, or even plead her innocence. But she did say that those calling for her job are all a political game.
“People have the right to their opinion I think that they should allow for the privilege that everyone has to do process,” said Fernandes Anderson.
Mayor Michelle Wu as well as several city council members have called for her to resign from her position since her arrest. Going as far as to introduce the question of if an ethics committee should be established in city hall.
“I will be brief. Boston residents are looking for this body to provide honest and ethical leadership. Why not start today?” said councilor Ed Flynn.
“To investigate or have jurisdiction over my peers on those questions, Ruthzee Louisjeune said. “I do think it’s a worthy conversation.”
This was the last city council meeting for the year. The idea of creating an ethics committee will continue to be discussed.
Fernandes Anderson is due back in federal court in January.
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