County attorneys: Historical commission did not comply with Texas Public Meetings Act

*WARNING: Contains strong language*

County attorneys have determined that the historical commission failed to comply with the Texas Open Meetings Act, when a vote was conducted via email.

“We directed the county attorney’s office to turn over all the documentation we have to the district attorney’s office,” County Judge Veronica Escobar said.

This issue was first brought up to county attorneys on Jan. 9. It was revealed that the Historical Commission, which is appointed by County Commissioners, weighed in on whether to approved a new location for the new downtown arena.

The email vote showed the group was adamantly against building it in the Duranguito neighborhood.

Bernie Sargent, the chair of the County Historical Commission, met with County Commissioners back on Jan. 9. Afterwards, he said the group did not do it on purpose.

“It was an electronic vote, and it was not binding,” Sargent said. “It was not meant to violate any open meetings. We’re very open, very transparent.”

Sargent could not be reached for comment.

Escobar said she does not believe the Historical Commission knowingly tried to circumvent the law.

“With regard to the future, we are going to ensure that everyone gets the appropriate training, and that people understand the obligation and responsibility they have, when they’re part of a public board,” Escobar said. “I truly believe that there was no malintent.”

Escobar did however say she was disappointed to learn that Sargent referred to city reps Michiel Noe and Carl Robinson as “pussies” in a text message he sent to Historical Commission Vice Chair Max Grossman.

“It is inappropriate in my view,” Escobar said. “That was disrespectful, to say the least.”