Two city leaders in Hoxie stepped down this week following heated discussions at a city council meeting on Tuesday night, centered around financial transparency and allegations of overspending.
Councilmember Jerry Decker resigned during the meeting, and Mayor Tim Taylor announced he would officially submit his resignation the following day at noon.
The resignations were spurred by allegations of city spending exceeding limits set by a self-imposed budget ordinance. According to documents shared at the meeting, the city had capped daily expenses for lodging at $107 per night and food at just under $60 per day. However, an Airbnb receipt billed to the city reportedly showed a three-night total of over $1,000.
Luke, a Hoxie resident, attended the meeting but was unable to speak during the public comment session because he missed the 5:30 p.m. sign-up deadline. He emphasized his hopes for greater transparency and stronger community engagement from future city leadership.
“I’m looking for someone who listens to the public,” Luke said. “Transparency is key to earning the trust of residents.”
Mayor Taylor declined to comment when reached after the meeting. In his resignation letter submitted Wednesday, Taylor said he also plans to retire from civilian employment with the United States Air Force Reserve, in addition to stepping away from public service.
This is not the first time Hoxie has faced scrutiny over alleged financial mismanagement. In January, former mayor Dennis Coggins was convicted on federal theft charges.
As Hoxie prepares for new leadership, residents like Luke hope to see a renewed focus on accountability in city government.