Residents tell Akron council of mold illness and allege racial bias in council interactions

Two residents used Akron City Council’s public comment period to raise separate concerns: one described acute health effects from mold in a rental unit, and another accused some council members of persistent racism and asked for a private meeting.

A commenter identified by the clerk as “Apostolate” said they have “really bad mold” in their apartment that has made them “totally sick,” described systemic difficulties obtaining medical care and asked to be placed on the public‑comment list again so staff could help arrange assistance. The council clerk told the speaker staff would try to get them on next week’s list and explore assistance options.

Phyllis DeHart, identified in remarks as a city resident, told council she intended to raise an ongoing concern about “racism among the council members.” DeHart said she had tried to schedule private meetings with specific members — she named Councilman Fusco and Councilman Lombardo — without success and urged council members to hold an honest, internal meeting to address what she called adverse reactions to “black matters.” She said she would continue to call council members to request a meeting and recommended prayer and fasting to address the problem.

Both comments were made during the public comment portion of the meeting; no formal council action, investigation, or staff assignment was recorded in response at the meeting.

Council did not take up either matter for formal action during the session, and the clerk closed the public comment period before moving on to the evening’s agenda.