Council advances three finalists for Place 3 vacancy after executive session; Barrios opposes going closed

The Richardson City Council voted to advance three finalists for the vacant Place 3 seat following an executive‑session review of applicants.

Council Member Justice moved to convene an executive session to discuss personnel matters and applicant interviews under the cited Texas Government Code provision; the motion passed 6–1 with Council Member Barrios voting against going into closed session. Barrios said she opposed closing the discussion: "I will be voting against this motion. I think it's something that we should discuss open," she said, urging a public process.

After returning from closed session, Council Member Justice moved to advance three finalists to be interviewed on Sept. 21, 2026. "Those 3 candidates are Daniel Burdett, Jeff Davis, and Jordan Nurett," Justice said. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

Councilmembers described their selection criteria during the post‑session deliberation: many said they prioritized demonstrated community service, readiness to serve on day one, and prior civic involvement. Staff explained the next steps: public interviews will be held on Sept. 21 and the council will select a lone finalist to be sworn in the following week.