MEMPHIS, TN- Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton says he is preparing to defend himself against charges that he used his public office to line his pockets.
The “Commercial Appeal” reports a federal grand jury is investigating how Herenton personally made a $91,000 profit on a land deal he was actively promoting as Mayor. The deal involves the property at the downtown Greyhound Bus Station. It is a complicated and undisclosed real estate transaction.
"I have made preparations to defend myself against inappropriate allegations and conduct and obviously I have been advised by council that I should refrain from making any comments about any of the matter mentioned in the newspaper," says Herenton.
During the Mayor's Rotary Club speech Tuesday, January 13, 2009, Herenton said he would only take questions from Rotary Club members. Coincidentally our anchor Cameron Harper is one of them.
"I'm wondering if you can use this opportunity to explain how “Herenton Investments” came to earn $90,000 on a downtown bus station and how you feel that is appropriate behavior and not a conflict of interest?” asked Harper.
“I think the centerpiece of the investigation is that there is a line of separation of public and private life. I think I know where the line is and I feel confident I have not crossed that line," answered Herenton.
After the meeting, Herenton told the media these allegations are hurtful.
"You are always going to get people shooting arrows in your back but what really bothers me is my integrity, my character, my honesty being questioned. That cuts deep.”
Mayor Herenton told the media he has written an editorial piece and submitted it to the “Commercial Appeal”. Editor Otis Sanford says he has received the article and he is strongly considering publishing it in Wednesday’s paper.
