A former Shoreacres City Council member appeared before the council Monday demanding the resignation of Mayor Dolly Arons, in part for her involvement in the recent firing and reinstatement of Shoreacres police officer.

Shoreacres City Council Meeting
February, 11, 2013

The Shoreacres City Council held their regular meeting on Monday, February 11, 2013.  The City Administrator, David Stall was absent.  Mayor, Dolly Arons was present. Council members Richard Adams, Connie Ramirez, Matt Webber, and Steve Jones were present. Alderman Dana Woodruff was once again absent.  Also present was police Chief, David Newman.

The agenda for the meeting was unusually short, as David Stall was absent. 

During the citizen's comments the following occurred; a citizen asked Council and the Mayor what criteria are used to hire a Police Chief, the City Administrator, and all other police officers.  [As mandated by law council cannot answer questions during the citizen's comments addressing items not on the agenda.]  The mayor, Dolly Arons stated that this can be addressed at a future meeting. 

I then addressed Council and the Mayor.  Referencing the January 30, 2013 public hearing; regarding the debacle of an investigation resulting in the wrongful termination, and reinstatement of Officer Daniel Vela. I requested the Mayor, Dolly Arons resign. My reasons are as follows and are well documented during both meetings; the original investigation was tainted, and there was an agenda, in my opinion and observation, to terminate Officer Vela; unlawful acts were committed with knowledge of city officials (omission of statements in Officer Vela's defense).

 I also advised the Mayor and Council that I will further pursue this matter by requesting, through the Freedom of Information Act, an exact transcript of the public hearing, held January, 30, 2013 and all supporting documentation referenced there-in.

Barring the Mayor resigning, I informed all present that I am adequately prepared to seek resolution through the Public Integrity Unit of the Harris County District Attorney's Office; as well as the Texas Rangers (as this involves wrong doing toward and/or by a member of law enforcement).

I further advised city council that they attempt to save-face for the city, by having a no confidence vote against the City Administrator, David Stall; Mayor Dolly Arons; and Chief, David Newman.

Nancy Schnell
Former City Council Member
Shoreacres, TX