AMP Commission reconsiders and reappoints Meredith Mills after public criticism of prior meeting conduct

The Texarkana Advertising & Promotion Commission voted to reconsider an earlier action and then reappointed Commissioner Meredith Mills following a round of public comments alleging improper conduct at a prior meeting.

During public comment Mister Dawson said the earlier action "felt premeditated," adding commissioners "were waiting for the opportunity" and warning the behavior discourages community participation. Marvin Landberry, who said he books events at Fat Jacks, described the prior meeting's handling as "the most chicken thing that I've ever saw in a public state" and called for accountability. Another audience member demanded a commissioner resign and apologize to Mills and the commission.

Faced with those concerns, a commissioner moved to reconsider the reappointment of Meredith Mills and the motion passed on roll call. The commission then moved to reappoint Mills; roll call votes were recorded in the affirmative and the chair announced the motion carried. Mills returned to the dais and thanked those who spoke on her behalf, calling the response "overwhelming and heartfelt."

Commissioners also signaled they will address the procedural gaps that fueled the dispute. The body agreed to schedule a workshop to clarify bylaws and removal procedures so commissioners and the public better understand how appointments and removals are handled moving forward. The workshop will also cover grant-limit policy changes the commission discussed during the meeting.

The meeting record does not show formal disciplinary action beyond the reconsideration and reappointment. The commission said it will consider bylaw amendments at the upcoming workshop to reduce the likelihood of similar conflicts.