CAIRO — A temporary ban lodged against a Grady County resident from attending meetings was lifted early. 

The Grady County Board of Commissioners unanimously lifted a six-month ban on Charles Renaud recently. The ban stemmed from an outburst by Renaud at a December commission meeting. 

“We just want to get it put behind us if possible,” said Chairman Ray Prince. 

Said Renaud: “I love Grady County and I am glad that they (commissioners) have decided to rescind what I consider to be an ‘illegal ban,’ so that I can get back to doing what I can to help improve our county.” 

A lawsuit was filed following the temporary ban. 

Prince, Vice Chairman T.D. David, and Commissioner LaFaye Copeland were named in the suit filed in Grady County Superior Court. The commissioners voted in favor of barring Renaud from meetings in a 3-2 vote in December. 

Carlos Tobar, former county administrator, also was named in the suit. According to a complaint from Todd Butler, Renaud’s attorney, Tobar signed and delivered a notice of trespass to a Grady County Sheriff’s Office deputy against Renaud.  

According to Butler, Renaud is still continuing his lawsuit against the commissioners and former administrator. 

“The lawsuit itself contends there have been injuries,” Butler said. 

The suit, Butler added, also questions if Renaud’s constitutional right was violated when the ban was issued. 

“We’re contending that they did,” he said. 

Reporter Jordan Barela can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1826.