EFM Suspends Authority Of Benton Harbor Officials

BENTON HARBOR (WWJ) - A state-appointed emergency financial manager has suspended the decision-making powers of Benton Harbor officials in a move that's likely the first act of its kind under a new state law.

Friday's order by Joseph Harris means Benton Harbor officials can only call meetings to order, adjourn them and approve minutes of meetings.

Harris' move drew a strong rebuke from the AFL-CIO, which represents administrative workers, among others.

The action is likely the first since Gov. Rick Snyder signed into law in March a new statute that grants more powers to emergency managers appointed by the Treasury Department to take over distressed schools and communities.