Former Ald. Cornette suing City of Davenport

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) - A Davenport alderman removed from office for misconduct filed a lawsuit against the city on Friday.

7th Ward Alderman Derek Cornette was accused of harassing two female staffers, drinking before meetings, and leaving inappropriate voicemails for council members and city officials.

He was removed from office during a special hearing on Sept. 7, when city officials presented recordings, police footage and witness testimony.

Cornette protested at the time, saying he hadn’t had enough time to prepare a defense. His peers voted 7-3 to oust him.

At a Friday press conference, Cornette’s attorney, Michael MeLoy said Mayor Mike Matson and council members forced Cornette out because he has been critical of policies, including how the city handled the Davenport building collapse.

TV6 has reached out to city officials for a response and have not heard back.

Meanwhile, Matson has said the city will appoint someone to fill Cornette’s seat until this fall’s election.

Cornette is running for election in the fall. Whoever wins will take office immediately.

Copyright 2023 KWQC. All rights reserved.