Several council members addressed public concern about a recent newspaper article that raised questions about a "good old boys" culture in town. Speakers said the story prompted a substantial number of texts, calls and in-person comments and urged unity and professionalism among elected officials.

Council discussion did not identify named individuals or produce a formal inquiry; members repeatedly emphasized teamwork. Council member McCartle (last name provided in the record) said he had received numerous comments from residents and business owners about the piece and asked whether the item described in the newspaper was accurate. Others responded that the article raised questions but did not present confirmed, named allegations; one council member said their reporting was a set of questions posed to the community rather than a claim.

Several speakers asked that complaints be handled through existing internal channels rather than litigated in open meeting. One council member said they had collected emails, calls and texts from residents describing past and current incidents but declined to read specific allegations publicly to avoid embarrassing individuals. Another council member said public criticism can be helpful but urged that it be used constructively to improve recruitment and staff morale.

No formal complaints, investigations or personnel actions were filed or initiated during the meeting. The matter remained a topic of colloquy and informal concern rather than an agenda item with action.

Quote:
"If it's true, it's true. If it's not, it's a lie. Plain and simple," a council member said, reflecting the polarized response some residents reported.

The council did not vote on the topic and directed no staff investigation during the session. Several members asked colleagues and citizens to follow up privately and emphasized continuing work on projects such as the water deal and major capital improvements.