Crockett council agrees to place economic director status on special meeting after heated exchange

Council members moved on Thursday to place the employment status of Economic Development Director James Gentry on a special call meeting and to seek legal advice after an extended discussion about whether he had been suspended or placed on administrative leave and who has authority to act.

The item began when a council member asked that Gentry and his employees be reinstated immediately. Councilors and staff then debated whether Gentry had been formally suspended or was on administrative leave pending an investigation, and whether the EDC board, rather than the city council, manages his employment. One council member urged that the matter be placed on the agenda for action and that a legal opinion be obtained before any final vote.

City staff said the EDC board is the employing body and that the council can act only through proper board procedure; legal counsel offered to provide a written opinion. The council voted to put the issue on a future agenda or a special meeting so the body can clarify the scope of authority and, if appropriate, take action. The motion to place the matter for action passed after a second and a brief procedural exchange.

No final personnel action was taken at the meeting. Council members who pressed for a prompt vote said they wanted Gentry’s keys returned and his duties restored; others cautioned the council must follow charter and EDC procedures and await legal guidance. Staff committed to preparing the legal memorandum and to posting a special meeting once counsel’s advice is available.

Next steps: council staff will obtain the requested legal opinion, post a special meeting notice, and bring the item back to the dais for formal consideration.