Odessa Mayor Stephen Wright has released a formal apology for a statement he made during to the Odessa Board of Aldermen meeting on Monday, May 15.

Wright reportedly used an anti-Semitic statement after explaining the trash contract with Republic Services. The video of that meeting on the city’s Facebook page was archived due to the content violating the city’s social media policy.

Wright’s apology is written as follows:

“To the Citizens of Odessa, I would like to extend my sincere apology to our Jewish Community, and all the citizens of Odessa, for statements made during the May 15, 2023, Board of Aldermen meeting. Those statements were not in keeping with the beliefs and values of the City of Odessa and should not be construed to represent the views of our City. It was not my intent to degrade or marginalize anyone, or any group of people, nor to further any negative stereotypes based upon their heritage or belief. Upon it being brought to my attention, I instantly regretted my choice of words. Everyone is welcome in the City of Odessa, and we value the diverse backgrounds and rich histories that everyone contributes to our city. I am truly sorry for the hurt that I caused. I pledge to do better, and I am committed to doing everything necessary to ensure all people feel welcome and included in our City.”

Statement courtesy of the city of Odessa