Palm Bay Meeting Lacks Quorum; Mayor Holds Town Hall

A special Palm Bay council meeting on Sept. 30 failed for lack of quorum. Mayor Medina hosted a town-hall style forum where residents condemned Councilman Langevin’s anti-Indian posts.

Residents voice unity and opposition to hate at Palm Bay City Hall.

Palm Bay, FL – A special meeting called to address Councilman Chandler Langevin’s recent anti-Indian social media remarks did not proceed Tuesday night after three council members, including Langevin, failed to attend. With no quorum, Mayor Rob Medina converted the gathering into a town-hall forum, giving residents the chance to speak directly about the controversy.

Residents Fill City Hall

Dozens of residents crowded the chambers, many from Palm Bay’s Indian-American community, to voice anger and disappointment. Speakers described Langevin’s remarks as “racist” and “embarrassing,” warning that hateful rhetoric puts neighbors at risk. One attendee said, “He made a comment about Indians now. Who will be next? We need to stop this man immediately.”

Parents of Indian descent shared concerns that their children would face discrimination because of Langevin’s words. Amar Patel, a Brevard resident, told FOX 35, “Acts like the city councilmember’s words will affect how residents treat my children. That can’t continue. That is hate speech.”

Mayor’s Response

Mayor Medina, who had already issued an open letter condemning divisive rhetoric, told attendees the city must remain committed to respect and unity. “Words that demean or devalue others have no place in Palm Bay,” his letter stated earlier in the week.

Councilman Langevin’s Position

Langevin, absent from the meeting, reiterated in interviews and on social media that he will not apologize. He told WFTV, “If preventing Palm Bay from looking like Dallas or Dearborn is racist, I don’t really care… I’m gonna double down and I’m not gonna apologize.”

What Happens Next

Councilman Kenny Johnson announced he will bring forward a measure at the Oct. 2 regular council meeting asking the City Council to send a formal request to Governor Ron DeSantis to suspend Langevin from office. Johnson said, “My first preference would be for the councilman to step down on his own… but if not, then the only way would be for the governor to remove him.”

A petition organized by the Indian Association of the Space Coast condemning Langevin’s remarks has already gathered more than 1,300 signatures.

How Residents Can Participate

The next City Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. in the Palm Bay Council Chambers. Residents may:

• Attend in person.

• Sign up to speak during public comment.

• Submit written comments by email.