The Darlington City Council convened for a special work session Tuesday night, culminating in a contentious vote to terminate the contract of City Manager Lenessa Hawkins. Darlington City Hall buzzed with anticipation as a packed room of residents awaited the council’s decision on Hawkins’ tenure.
The meeting commenced with routine city updates before transitioning into a nearly two-hour executive session, which was closed to the public for deliberation. Upon reconvening, Mayor Curtis Boyd formally introduced a motion to end Hawkins’ employment.
“I make a motion to terminate the city manager’s contract with a 6-month payout,” stated Mayor Curtis Boyd. The subsequent vote saw a clear division, with the mayor and all male council members voting in favor of the motion. The proposal passed with a majority vote, but the decision was far from unanimous and immediately sparked debate regarding procedural legitimacy.
Procedural Disagreements Emerge
Councilwoman Angela McRavin voiced significant objections to the vote’s validity. She highlighted that a similar motion to terminate Hawkins’ contract had failed in the previous month. According to Robert’s Rules of Order, a re-vote can only be requested by a member of the prevailing side, a condition she asserts was not met in this instance.
“So, yes, I vote no on this matter, because according to our ordinances and according to the law, that is not how this procedure should happen,” Councilwoman Angela McRavin declared, underscoring her belief that the vote was unlawful due to procedural missteps.
However, Councilman John Milling offered a differing perspective. He stated that the municipal association had been consulted prior to the meeting. “The municipal association was contacted prior to our meeting tonight, and we were told, at least I was told, that what took place was appropriate,” Milling explained. He added, “And I am not going to say anything derogatory about Miss Hawkins, she has been kind when I ask her questions. But we have a responsibility to do what is determined to be in the interest of the city.”
Concerns Over Contractual Obligations
Adding another layer to the controversy, Councilwoman Sheila Baccus raised concerns about the contractual requirements for Hawkins’ termination. Baccus asserted that Hawkins’ contract stipulated a written notice detailing the reasons for termination, a requirement she believes was not fulfilled.
Lenessa Hawkins had held the position of city manager for a mere year before this decision.
Resident Reaction and Future Proceedings
As the meeting concluded, a palpable sense of anger and frustration permeated City Hall among many residents who had gathered to witness the proceedings. Their hopes for a different outcome were dashed by the council’s majority decision.
Before adjourning, City Manager Hawkins requested a public hearing. This hearing is now mandated to take place within 20 days of Tuesday night’s council meeting, providing a platform for further discussion and potential clarification.
This developing story is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
