Winchester Residents Demand Transparency from City Council

Speakers criticize city manager appointment and ICE contract, call for clearer communication and greater public input

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Residents of Winchester, Virginia voiced concerns at a City Council meeting about a lack of transparency in local government, focusing their criticism on the recent appointment of the new city manager and the city's contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Speakers accused city leaders of dismissing public feedback and failing to adequately address community concerns before making key decisions.

Why it matters

The issues raised by Winchester residents highlight ongoing tensions between local government and the public over transparency and accountability. The city manager appointment and ICE contract have become flashpoints, reflecting broader questions about how much influence residents should have in shaping their community's policies and priorities.

The details

Multiple speakers at the City Council meeting criticized the process behind the appointment of John Piper as the new city manager, accusing him of dismissing residents' concerns. Residents also challenged the city's contract with ICE to house detained juveniles at a local detention center, arguing they have little influence over the decision because the facility is governed by an appointed commission. Speakers alleged that public comment sessions do not lead to meaningful change, with one resident saying the sessions are "designed to absorb our energy while decisions are made elsewhere."

  • The City Council voted to appoint John Piper as city manager.
  • The city's contract with ICE is set to expire on February 21, 2026.

The players

John Piper

The newly appointed city manager of Winchester, Virginia, who previously served as deputy city manager and has a background in local and regional law enforcement.

Clare Connor

A Winchester resident who has spoken regularly at City Council meetings over the past year and accused Piper of dismissing residents' concerns.

Ayana Detamore

A Winchester resident who said the announcement of Piper's selection as city manager prompted widespread discussion in the community and on social media about his professional history.

Jeff Millburn

A Winchester resident who questioned staffing decisions within the city's communications department and called for a budget review.

Klio Stroubakis

A Ward 4 resident who said the structure of the commission governing the Northwestern Regional Juvenile Detention Center leaves residents uncertain about where authority ultimately rests.

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What’s next

The City Council is expected to continue discussions on the expiring ICE contract and the concerns raised about the city manager's appointment in upcoming meetings.

The takeaway

The issues raised by Winchester residents reflect a broader desire for greater transparency and accountability in local government, as well as a need for city leaders to better engage with and respond to community feedback on important decisions that impact the city.