By Jacob Clavijo | Editor-in-Chief
LYNCHBURG, Va. – Lynchburg City Councilmember Stephanie Reed stormed out of Tuesday’s meeting after a heated exchange between Jamie Maxwell, President of the Lynchburg Firefighters Association. Reed stated that she felt threatened by Maxwell’s comments, which she claims were directly aimed at her.
Maxwell spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting, passionately expressing his concern for the poor conditions evident in the city’s fire stations. He said the city has neglected caring for and renovating its eight fire stations.
“I’m here in response to some garbage that was put out,” Maxwell began, referencing a city council budget meeting on Tuesday where Councilmember Reed brought up the death of Andrew Jenks, a Lynchburg firefighter who died of cancer in 2024.
“Keep his name out of your mouth during your meetings,” said Maxwell. “Shame on you for doing it.”
Maxwell then presented two tiles, which he claimed belonged to Fire Station 1 and Fire Station 8, that were covered with asbestos, to the council members. He then approached Councilmember Reed to hand her the tile for closer inspection, indicating that it should be safe for them to examine because the council has dismissed the presence of asbestos within the fire stations.
Councilmember Reed did not take kindly to Maxwell placing the tiles on her desk, and the two began to exchange words.
“He has threatened me tonight, and I do not feel safe,” Reed shouted, pushing her chair back to distance herself from the tiles in front of her.
Councilmember Marty Misjuns then chimed in, claiming that Maxwell’s comments were not a threat.
“It wasn’t a threat to you, it was a threat to me,” Reed shouted at Misjuns. “I can interpret a threat.”
Councilmember Reed stood up and left, while Mayor Larry Taylor attempted to restore order. Reed did not return for the remainder of the meeting.
Maxwell used the remainder of his time to advocate for renovations to the fire stations, urging the city council to take action on the matter. He claims that their lack of action has indirectly communicated to local firefighters and paramedics that their lives are insignificant.
“Is it okay for you to tell my wife that my life doesn’t matter?,” Maxwell said to the council.
To see the entire city council meeting session, visit https://www.lynchburgva.gov/842/Council-Meeting-Agendas-Minutes-Video
