WAUKESHA — A group of residents are working to recall a city leader.
The Committee to Recall Aaron Perry wants to remove the alderman from the common council, primarily citing concerns over Perry’s residency.
“According to recent arrest records, he moved out of the district,” said Thomas Harland, one of the recall organizers. “We feel that he no longer lives within the district, and he’s also failed to maintain the trust and confidence of the residents of District 12.”
Perry says that claim is invalid.
“I spoke with them prior and explained to them the reasons why I had one additional address,” Perry told WTMJ. “I spoke with the common council president, the city attorney–who dealt with the state–everything was approved prior to me even signing a lease, which was for the safety of my son.”
Perry is also facing four charges relating to an alleged domestic abuse incident in November, and is maintaining his innocence.
“I’m not guilty of anything,” he said. “Unfortunately we don’t really have a process that is innocent until proven guilty. It’s kind of more the other way around.”
Despite the pending legal issues, recall organizers say it’s time for change.
“When you are elected to a political office you need to adhere to the highest standards of morality,” said Harland. “There’s been a couple of different issues. Obviously there’s a trend.”
Organizers need to collect 712 signatures by Feb. 2 to trigger a special election in spring 2021.
Hear from both sides in the players above.