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A Smithville alderman released a statement Thursday regarding Mayor Jimmy Poss’s indictment this week.
Alderman Gayla Hendrix called the situation “unfortunate,” adding the Smithville City Council was unaware of Poss hiring his son, Tony.
“I would like to make our community aware that the City Council and City Personnel made every attempt to avoid the situation escalating to this magnitude,” Hendrix said.
Mayor Poss and his son were indicted on theft charges after the Mayor hired his son to work at the city golf course without approval from the Board of Aldermen.
Hendrix’s statement indicates that Poss may have made other unapproved hires without consent of the Board of Aldermen.
“The Mayor further admitted to hiring other employees without the Council approval and without the following the procedures promulgated in the Smithville City Charter, city ordinances, and the city’s personnel policy,” Hendrix said.
In her statement, Hendrix said City Council requested Mayor Poss apologize for his actions and to repay funds given to his son, but Poss declined to do so.
“While a very unfortunate event, this situation has made the Council much more vigilant of the city’s business,” Hendrix said. “As your city representatives, we intend to remain vigilant and fiscally responsible as we move forward, regardless of the election outcome.”
Calls made to Mayor Poss’s attorney for comment were not immediately returned. Alderman and Mayoral Candidate Josh Miller declined to comment on the situation yesterday.
