Resident urges independent review of Alderman Brett Barnhart over horse-facility dealings

Megan Lisonbee told the Geneseo City Council on July 14 that she had filed a complaint asking for an independent review of Alderman Brett Barnhart’s conduct related to a local horse-breeding facility. "He financially exploited 2 elderly gentlemen," Lisonbee said during the public‑comment portion of the meeting, and she asked that the council examine Barnhart’s concurrent leadership of a local nonprofit and his operations at the facility.

Lisonbee identified herself and described her connection to the community and the deceased man whose care she said raised concerns. She said she provided written materials to the council and asked where to deliver them; staff accepted the packet for follow-up.

Council rules limit public comment to information sharing; the mayor and staff noted that public comment does not become a forum for debate or immediate council action. The transcript records that city staff offered to receive Lisonbee’s materials and to direct them to the appropriate office for review; no member of the council announced an investigative step, referral to an ethics body or a formal inquiry during the meeting.

The allegation names a sitting alderman by role and surname; the claim was made in public comment and was not adjudicated in the meeting, and no response from Alderman Brett Barnhart was recorded in the transcript. The council’s next steps were not specified at the meeting beyond staff receiving Lisonbee’s documents.

The complaint and materials Lisonbee provided were accepted by staff at the meeting; anyone seeking further information on council procedures for complaints or independent reviews should contact the city clerk’s office for the official process and records.

What happens next: The transcript shows the packet was handed to staff at the meeting for follow-up. The council did not vote to open an investigation or take formal action during the July 14 session.