The Hoxie City Council voted Thursday to appoint Councilman Steve Ditto as the city’s new mayor following the sudden resignations of Mayor Tim Taylor and Councilman Jerry Decker earlier this week. Ditto is set to be sworn in on Friday at Hoxie City Hall, according to officials.
The resignations occurred after allegations of improper spending were raised by residents during the public comment portion of Tuesday night’s regular council meeting. Residents presented documents alleging overspending on travel and meal expenses, which reportedly exceeded the city’s self-imposed spending limits. Decker resigned on Tuesday night, followed by Taylor submitting his resignation on Wednesday.
Following his resignation, Taylor issued a statement to the community: "I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served our community and for the trust placed in me throughout the years. Hoxie will always be my home, and I remain hopeful and confident that its leaders and residents will continue working together to move our city forward."
The council also discussed how to fill the vacancy created by Decker’s departure. While a recommendation was made, the decision was postponed pending a legal review.
The leadership changes come at a critical time for Hoxie as residents seek transparency and accountability in city governance. Further details on the council's review of the allegations and actions moving forward are expected in the coming weeks.