City Council Faces Scrutiny Over Mayor Rhodes' Legal Fees and Inappropriate Comments

Amador County's City Council meeting on July 15, 2025, highlighted ongoing concerns regarding legal fees and the conduct of Mayor Rhodes. The council has held 16 special meetings since January, with many called by the mayor, raising questions about the associated legal costs.

During the meeting, it was noted that the city attorney's fees have surged, with four of the seven reasons for the increase directly linked to actions initiated by Mayor Rhodes. These include changes to meeting times and policies, as well as research into funding for wastewater improvements. The mayor's leadership style has also come under scrutiny, with several council members citing inappropriate comments made during meetings, which they argue undermine the council's professionalism.

Despite the criticism, some council members defended the mayor, suggesting that attributing all issues to his leadership is misguided. The discussions reflect a growing tension within the council regarding governance and accountability, as well as the financial implications of legal services for the city.

As the council moves forward, the implications of these discussions may lead to further scrutiny of the mayor's actions and potential censure claims, signaling a pivotal moment for leadership and transparency in Amador County's local government.