Black leaders split over city progress

With the election of three of their own and a liberal Democratic mayor to the City Council in 2001, many African-American leaders rejoiced, believing a new era of progress for their community was at hand.

More than a year into the new council's reign, how well Annapolis' African-American community has fared depends on who you ask.

So far, the majority of African-American leaders are praising the work of Alderwoman Classie G. Hoyle, Alderman George O. Kelley Sr. and Alderwoman Cynthia A. Carter.

They've helped to pass bills repealing voter identification standards, creating a minority business outreach position in city...