Selma council votes 4–1 to remove planning commissioner after city attorney alleges false State Bar complaints

The Selma City Council voted 4–1 on March 17, 2026 to remove Planning Commissioner Lewis Franco following a formal staff recommendation by the city attorney that Franco’s conduct disqualified him from continuing to serve.

City Attorney Neil Castanzo presented documents and a written recommendation alleging that Franco — and a complaint filed by Franco’s daughter under an assumed name — submitted false and malicious complaints to the State Bar of California accusing the city attorney of conflicts and misconduct. The city attorney told the council those filings were intended to damage his reputation and could not be squared with the record. "Doing it through your daughter is particularly cowardly," the city attorney said during his presentation, describing the complaints as crimes that could merit referral for prosecution.

Franco responded from the podium, denied the allegations and described the council’s action as retaliatory. He said the complaints concerned legitimate questions about legal representation and that he and his daughter were exercising protected rights. "This resolution represents what I believe to be harassment and attempt to damage my reputation," Franco told the council, urging members to consider the context of earlier disputes.

During public comment several residents defended the city attorney and criticized Franco’s conduct and past political behavior; others warned the council to be cautious before removing appointed officials. Councilmembers discussed legal and ethical factors, including the planning commission’s quasi‑judicial role and the need for impartial members. After deliberation the council carried a motion to remove Franco from the Planning Commission by a 4–1 vote (Mayor Robertson — yes; Mayor Promgera — yes; Council member Avalos — yes; Council member Oagera — yes; Council member Trillo — no). The council also directed the city clerk to open the application period for the vacancy for at least 30 days.

The action is an administrative removal under local appointment authority; the staff packet included the city attorney’s recommendation and copies of the State Bar correspondence. The city attorney said his recommendation was his own and followed council direction to place the matter on the open session agenda. Franco said he would provide documents to the record contesting the city attorney’s account.

What’s next: The city clerk will accept applications to fill the Planning Commission vacancy for at least 30 days. Any further legal or criminal referrals resulting from the State Bar filings were not decided at the meeting; the city attorney indicated he could pursue civil or criminal remedies if appropriate.