A Coffeyville city commissioner is facing backlash after a post on Facebook.

 

In the now-deleted post, Commissioner Don Edwards described a conversation he had with young boys outside the aquatic center, including a comment referencing the boys’ physical reaction to cold water and a follow-up question he directed at them. Despite being deleted a photo of the post has been spread around Facebook with many upset about Commissioner Edwards original post.

 

In a separate Facebook post, Commissioner Edwards issued an apology acknowledging the offense his original post caused. He says there was no harmful intent behind his comment, but admitted in hindsight that he understands how it could have been taken the wrong way.

 

Mayor Deborah Maples also addressed the controversy in a separate post, emphasizing that Edwards’ remarks do not reflect the values of the City or its leadership. She says public trust is built on respect, thoughtfulness, and integrity. Adding that while the apology is a step, the concerns from the community remain valid and deserve to be acknowledged.