By Karen Gleason
The 830 Times
Writer’s note: The writer was not present for the meeting. This story was written from a review of the video recording of the meeting posted on the city’s YouTube channel.
Less than four months after the city and former City Attorney Ana Markowski Smith parted ways, a divided council reappointed Smith as city attorney during a special meeting on Monday.
There was only one item on the agenda of Monday’s meeting – a closed-door session “regarding the appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline or dismissal of a public officer or employee – city attorney.”
The agenda also allowed for council to return to open session and vote on the issue.
Following the meeting’s opening ceremonies, Mayor Al Arreola gaveled the council into executive session.
Just over five hours later, the council returned from its closed-door session, and Arreola noted the time the meeting reconvened and said, “I’d like to entertain a motion in regards to the discussion, on the appointment.”
Councilman J.P. Sanchez said, “I’ll make a motion to accept the recommendation of the city manager.”
Councilman Randy Quinones gave the second.
Arreola said, “We have a first and a second. Any questions, concerns? All. . .”
Councilwoman Carmen Gutierrez interjected, saying, “Mayor, did you say what the recommendation was?”
Arreola said, “The recommendation is to appoint Ana M. Smith as the city attorney.”
Councilman Leno Hernandez Jr. said, “Can you read that letter, mayor?”
Arreola then read a letter from Manuel Chavez, City of Del Rio city manager to the council: “To the honorable mayor and members of the city council, after completing a thorough review of the applicants and interviews of the position of city attorney, I respectfully submit my recommendation to the city council for your consideration. Based on my evaluation of the candidates, qualifications, professionalism, experience, municipal legal expertise, leadership ability, demonstration of commitment to public service, I recommend the appointment of Ana M. Smith as city attorney for the city of Del Rio.
The letter continued, “Throughout the review process, Ana Smith distinguished herself through her extensive knowledge of municipal law, sound legal judgment, ability to provide practical strategy and legal counsel to elected officials and municipal staff. . . After carefully considered all applicants, I am confident that Ana Smith is the candidate best suited to meet the current and future legal needs of the city. . . (Signed) Mr. Manuel Chavez.”
After reading the letter, Arreola again said, “I have a first and a second. Any comments or not? All in favor?”
The council then voted 4-2-1 to reappoint Smith.
Sanchez, Quinones, Briones and Reyes voted in favor of the motion to reappoint Smith, and Gutierrez voted against the motion. Arreola and Hernandez abstained.
Hernandez said, “I’m sorry, Mayor, I’m abstaining from the vote. My opinion is a little different than for or against (the) candidate.”
A majority of the city council voted to fire Smith in February, then reversed itself in March, rescinding Smith’s termination and accepting her resignation.
Two of the city council members who voted to fire Smith in February are no longer on the council, and Arreola, who voted in favor of her termination, changed his vote to an abstention.
The writer can be reached at delriomagnoliafan@gmail.com
