By Reggie Connell, Managing Editor
It's been nearly two weeks since the June 19th Apopka City Council meeting, but the fallout from that dark three-hour-plus session continues.
After a tension-filled discussion about rescinding Mayor Bryan Nelson's 2023 censure, The Apopka Voice has learned through a public records request and a social media post that Commissioner Alexander Smith sent a scathing email to Commissioner Nick Nesta, describing Nesta's remarks to Smith as "degrading, offensive, insulting, rude and disrespectful."
During the presentation, Nesta called on each commissioner (Nadia Anderson, Smith, and Diane Velazquez) to vote against rescinding the censure.
Although Smith recused himself from this vote because he did not vote in the censure or attend the meeting in 2023, Nesta still gave his reasons why Smith should vote against the recision.
"Commissioner Smith, I'm surprised that you showed up to this meeting, to be honest," Nesta said. "And I'm surprised you recused yourself as well. I feel this vote would have been important for you to do, not only for yourself but also as an educator and as a clergy member. It's important to show you stand with those who are honest, have integrity, and are ethical. It's unfortunate that you recused yourself from this."
The next day, Smith sent his response to Nesta's city commissioner email account. Here is that email unedited and in its entirety:
"From: Alexander Smith on behalf of Alexander Smith <ASmith@apopka.net>
To: Nicholas Nesta
Subject: Comments at City Council Meeting
Date: Thursday, June 20, 2024 12:57:05 PM
Good afternoon Commissioner Nesta,
I wanted to make you aware that as a Black Male your remarks last night at City Commission meeting were degrading, offensive, insulting, rude and disrespectful. I find it difficult to understand how in 2024 a white male feels that it is ok to talk to a Black male as if we are still in slavery.
Because I’m an educator, Pastor and most importantly a human being I know how to conduct myself in public settings. To make a mockery of my chosen profession and the spiritual calling of my life I don’t take kindly. When we are in the chambers I would appreciate it if you would address me in my position and office as Commissioner.
Slavery is over. Black men are no longer controlled by their white counterparts and told what to say, where to go and where they can not go. I’m not sure when you were appointed as the Council disciplinarian and given the authority to reprimand. I would appreciate it if you would give me the same respect as a man and fellow Commissioner that I give you. I don’t reprimand nor make smart remarks about decisions you make or the way you chose to vote on a business of the council. I would appreciate the same respect. Because our viewpoints are different does not give you the right to reprimand. It is my understanding that all four Commissioners have the same equal rights. Not that I’m controlled by and dictated to by you: master how shall I vote, or can I vote!
Believe it or not I to represent the residents of Apopka.
It’s what’s inside of me that matters; not who is in front of me!
Best regards,
Alexander H. Smith
Apopka City Commissioner, Seat 1
Sent from my iPad"
Nesta also called on Velazquez to vote against rescinding the censure.
"I know as a mother, as a detective, and as a civic leader, you'll make the right decision not to rescind the censure," he said to Velazquez. " All these facts show exactly what happened... that we were lied to and tried to deceive the voters, the public, as well as yourself."
He used similar language in asking for Anderson's vote, who had earlier asked that the item be tabled until she could do more research.
"The Mayor was properly censured for lying," Nesta said. "You don't need any more context than what was just provided. The minutes were approved by the mayor for lying. He approved that he lied.
Then he addressed Anderson directly.
"I don't know what else you can look into. This is exactly what you'll be looking into tomorrow, the next day, and the next day. If we table this, no other information is needed. No other information is required. This is exactly what the censure discusses and exactly what it's about. You're a mother, you're a business owner, and you're a civic leader. Are you okay with lying?"
"Well, I determine how much research I need to do to feel confident to vote," Anderson said. "Me being a mother and a business owner all have absolutely nothing to do with me. I have never written a resolution, so I don't feel comfortable voting."
"So you came to this meeting unprepared," Nesta said. "That's very unfortunate."
Editor's Note: The Apopka Voice contacted Nesta for a response, but after learning that commenting on a news site or through an email to Smith may violate Sunshine laws, the request was withdrawn.
This is a developing story that may be updated in future editions of The Apopka Voice as more details become known.