Stafford County Board censures Supervisor Monica Gary amid misconduct allegations

The Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 17, 2024, was marked by significant discussions surrounding traffic enforcement and employee holiday designations, culminating in a unanimous vote to censure Supervisor Monica Gary for misconduct.

The meeting opened with a focus on traffic safety, particularly regarding the enforcement of parking regulations near driveways. Supervisor Zungg raised concerns about ongoing issues in neighborhoods like Hampton Oaks and Emeryville, suggesting that the Sheriff's Office conduct spot enforcement. However, the Sheriff's Office expressed opposition to changing existing code language, emphasizing that current regulations already address violations such as blocking driveways. The discussion highlighted the need for collaboration between supervisors and law enforcement to address community concerns effectively.

The board then shifted to the contentious topic of holiday designations for county employees. A proposed resolution aimed to add additional holidays for 2025 was met with mixed reactions. Some supervisors advocated for more time off to enhance employee satisfaction and retention, while others expressed caution, citing budgetary constraints and the need for adequate staffing during holidays. Ultimately, the board decided to table the additional holiday proposal, opting instead to revisit the issue in June after assessing the county's financial situation.

The meeting took a serious turn when the board addressed the censure of Supervisor Gary. Following an investigation into her conduct, which included providing misleading information regarding the removal of a library board appointee, the board unanimously voted to censure her. This decision was framed as a necessary step to restore public trust and accountability within the board. Supervisor Gary, however, vehemently defended her actions, claiming retaliation and asserting that the board's decision was politically motivated.

The meeting concluded with a vote to enter closed session for further discussions on legal matters, underscoring the ongoing complexities within the board's operations. The unanimous votes on both the censure and the closed session reflect a board grappling with internal challenges while striving to maintain public confidence in its governance.