City Councilwoman Marvene Noel said the first test of a new council committee format shows it "sucks is what it is."

She added, "It's bulls*** is what it is."

Under the new plan that was drawn up by Councilman Ron Elliott, any council member can sit in on a committee meeting. However, only members of that committee can vote to make recommendations to the full council.

On Tuesday, the budget committee met on a major budget amendment, including rebuilding the city police headquarters due to mold issues.

Councilwoman Raquetta Dotson first mentioned the committee process, saying if an amendment had passed then all council members present could have voted.

She said, "That was the exact reason for the amendment. We have all had conversation, but our (non committee members) vote is not counted."

Councilwoman Noel said the session "was just a waste of my time and energy. Four individuals are going to make the decision. What's the purpose of any of the rest of us being at that meeting?"

Councilman Dennis Clark, who had favored the committee change, said, "As a colleague, as a co-worker, your voices are taken into account."