Lewisburg Citizens Discuss City Manager's Controversial Situation at Council Meeting

In a special called meeting on August 22, 2025, the Lewisburg City Council faced intense public scrutiny regarding the ongoing situation surrounding City Manager Roy Bam Hazle. The meeting, marked by emotional testimonies from community members, highlighted deep divisions within the city regarding Hazle's leadership amid allegations against him.

The meeting began with a reminder for attendees to maintain decorum, emphasizing the need for respectful discourse. However, as citizens took to the podium, it became clear that the atmosphere was charged with concern and frustration. Jerry Henry, a resident, expressed his belief that Hazle has been unfairly targeted, suggesting that some council members are more focused on personal agendas than the welfare of the city. He raised concerns about potential racial bias in the scrutiny faced by Hazle, drawing parallels to historical injustices in local governance.

Several speakers echoed Henry's sentiments, defending Hazle's character and contributions to the community. Jessica Lindbergh and Shannon McLean both highlighted the importance of due process, urging the council to refrain from rushing to judgment. They emphasized that allegations do not equate to guilt and called for a fair evaluation of Hazle's performance as city manager, separate from the personal issues he is currently facing.

Conversely, other residents voiced concerns about the implications of Hazle's situation on the city's governance. Wilford Wenzel pointed out the need to consider the rights of the alleged victim in the ongoing case, stressing that the council must uphold ethical standards regardless of personal relationships. Jeff Porch, a county commissioner, underscored the necessity of adhering to established procedures, suggesting that if the roles were reversed, the response might differ significantly.

The meeting also revealed a broader concern about the lack of clear policies regarding how the city should handle situations involving city officials facing legal challenges. Sherry Ferguson raised the issue of procedural clarity, advocating for established guidelines to ensure that governance remains stable during such crises.

As the meeting concluded, it was evident that the community remains divided on the issue. While many rallied in support of Hazle, others called for accountability and adherence to ethical standards. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns and determining the future of Hazle's leadership in Lewisburg. The discussions from this meeting reflect not only the immediate challenges facing the city but also the underlying tensions regarding race, governance, and community trust that will require careful navigation in the months ahead.