Navasota council authorizes mayor to negotiate city manager contract for Robert Hemminger

The Navasota City Council at a special meeting (date not specified) authorized the mayor to negotiate an employment contract for Robert Hemminger to serve as city manager, the council announced after returning from an executive session that began at 1:02 p.m. and ended when the council reconvened in open session at 5:54 p.m.

Council members moved on the direction after the closed deliberation permitted by Texas Government Code §551.074, which allows executive sessions for personnel matters. "May I motion that we authorize the mayor to negotiate a contract for city manager for Robert Hemminger?" said Councilmember Stevens, who made the motion; Councilmember Harris seconded it. Presiding Mayor (name not specified) called for the vote, saying, "All in favor, say aye." The council voiced "aye" and, after no opposition, the presiding officer said, "Seeing none, item carries."

The action recorded in the meeting minutes and transcript was limited to authorizing the mayor to enter negotiations. The transcript does not record any finalized employment agreement, contract terms, salary, or any recorded roll-call vote; the action was taken by voice vote and the item was listed as Item 4 on the agenda. The meeting then adjourned.

The council's decision moves negotiation authority to the mayor; the transcript does not specify next steps, a timeline for negotiations, or whether a subsequent council vote to approve a final employment agreement will be scheduled.