The City Council of Keene, Texas, convened on December 5, 2024, to discuss several pressing issues, with a significant focus on the city's code of conduct and the implications of its enforcement. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the potential conflicts of interest for city attorneys and the need for an impartial review process.

One of the main topics of discussion was the role of the city attorney in handling complaints against council members. Some council members expressed that hiring an outside special counsel could provide a more unbiased approach, as the current system may place the city attorney in a difficult position when it comes to reporting violations by council members. This has raised questions about the fairness and effectiveness of the existing process.

Councilman Johnson voiced concerns about favoritism and the behavior of some council members, urging the council to address inappropriate conduct. He emphasized the need for accountability and respect among council members. In response, Councilman Easley called for action rather than mere discussion, indicating a desire for tangible improvements in council dynamics.

The council also addressed the number of complaints filed against members, with some council members suggesting that the current code of conduct may be creating unnecessary conflict and expense. Mayor Smith proposed a motion to table any updates or repeals of the code for six months, allowing time for the council to improve its working relationships and assess the effectiveness of the current rules.

The motion received support, with council members agreeing that a pause could help determine if the process is being misused. The discussion underscored the complexities of governance in a small city and the importance of maintaining integrity and respect within the council.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the need for ongoing dialogue and cooperation, with the potential for revisiting the code of conduct in the future based on the council's progress in fostering a more collaborative environment.