Barbara ShanklinLOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - The future
of Metro Councilwoman Barbara Shanklin hangs in the balance after the Metro
Ethics Commission recommended that she be kicked off the Metro Council. It made
the recommendation after determining that she mishandled funds for local
programs.
The commission said Shanklin misused
her office to get neighborhood development grants for a neighborhood
association and controlled how the money was ultimately dispersed. Shanklin was
also charged with nepotism.
Some in the Newburg-Petersburg area Shanklin's
2nd District covers said the councilwoman is no different than any
other politician.
"In politics, every politician
up there has done something to help somebody that they know," said 2nd District resident Jimmy Wright. "If they tell you that they haven't, they
are going to be looking you in your face and lying."
Some constituents defended Shanklin.
"Since
I was a little boy about three or four years old, I've been playing at Newburg Community
Center and at the park over there, and Barbara Shanklin has been a big inspiration
to us and everybody," said Kenneth Trice. "She kept me out of trouble. She's been there for me and my
family -- for everybody -- for years and years."
In order for Shanklin to be removed
from office, five council members have to swear out charges against her. The
remaining members would act as the council court and hear the charges against
her and decide whether she should be removed.
Shanklin's attorney said he will
appeal the Ethics Commission's decision.
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