Resident questions transparency, possible partiality in municipal court judge appointment

During public forum, resident Mark Ray John told the council he was concerned about the recent appointment of Nicholas Turo to the municipal court, saying a Richmond resident serving as judge could create an appearance of partiality when neighbors or acquaintances appear before the court.

John said the agenda for the November 18 meeting did not list the candidate’s name and questioned the transparency of the process. He asked how many candidates were interviewed and whether any councilmembers had personal relationships with the appointee; he urged abstentions if so.

The council president responded that the council met in executive session to discuss applicants under the law governing character and personal matters, that four applicants were interviewed, and that one withdrew. The president said those interviews were publicly noticed as required and that applicants were asked about potential recusals. He also observed that other municipalities have municipal judges who live in the town and that known relationships do not automatically disqualify a candidate.

No formal council action to reverse or reconsider the appointment was recorded during the meeting. Councilors encouraged the resident to follow up and asked staff to provide additional details if needed.

The council’s comments indicate the selection process included interviews and executive-session review in accordance with state law; the resident framed his concerns as about transparency and potential conflicts rather than alleging misconduct.