Fort Myers city official fired for using epithet

Fort Myers deputy city clerk Denise Yingling was fired today for lack of professionalism and use of an epithet.

Interim city manager Marcus Goodson made the decision stating that the reputation of the city was at stake. Yingling, who held the position for two years, had gotten into a confrontation with black city leaders who wanted to view public documents.

Yingling called the police on a group of black city leaders who were seeking public records. She called after the media started videotaping the proceedings.

She then made a comment that resulted in her being suspended with pay.

“She said, ‘You can kiss my ass,’” said Willie Battle, 65, who filed a written complaint with the city.

The group held a news conference Friday at Fort Myers City Hall to ask state Attorney General Charlie Crist to investigate the city for possible inappropriate actions. Members had reiterated their stance of wanting Yingling to be fired.