Officials with The City of Kennesaw responded on Monday to inquiries by WSB regarding comments made by Mayor Derek Easterling at a Dunkin Donuts ribbon-cutting.

WSB has learned that the mayor's comments were directed to Darryl Simmons, Director of Zoning and Planning. Multiple sources have told WSB that while at the ribbon cutting Mayor Easterling, who is white, said something similar to "Go stand by the chocolate donuts, where you will blend in better" to Simmons, who is black.

On Monday, the city issued the following statement:

“On Tuesday, June 26th during the ribbon cutting of a new business in the City of Kennesaw, Mayor Derek Easterling made an unintentional comment that offended some Kennesaw employees attending the event.

“The City Manager’s Office along with Human Resources swiftly called an emergency meeting to address employees’ concerns,” the statement continued. “Mayor Easterling sincerely apologized for the comment and explained it was unintentional and will never happen again. Mayor Easterling said he has always had a good working relationship with the employee addressed and he in no way intended to offend the gentleman or other city employees.”

The statement concluded, “The City of Kennesaw is committed to maintaining a professional and lawful work environment free of harassment and discrimination.”

This is a developing story. Check back for details.