Jim Tolbert sworn into office

District 2 Representative Jim Tolbert promises to hold the city manager accountable for his actions.

Tolbert was sworn into office before Tuesday’s City Council meeting. He will serve the remainder of former City Rep. Larry Romero’s term.

Romero resigned in February, citing health issues after he suffered a stroke in December.

Tolbert filed an ethics complaint against Romero and City Manager Tommy Gonzalez. The complaint is still being investigated.

Tolbert was asked if he thought working so closely with Gonzalez could stand in the way of what he hopes to accomplish on the council.

“I hope not. I know that I will act professionally and I expect him to act professionally. As a member of (the) City Council I will certainly hold him accountable, just as I know the citizens of my district will hold me accountable,” Tolbert said.

Earlier this week, there were signs of tension. Tolbert accused Gonzalez of canceling an appointment he had with the city’s budget director. City officials said Tolbert’s meeting with the budget office was not canceled, just postponed .

District 2 covers most of central and part of northeast El Paso. Tolbert plans to run again in a year at the end of his term.