Bastrop's Mayor Lyle Nelson is under fire, stripped of several powers after a city council vote, as controversy swirls over allegations of his meddling with an investigation into accusations of local public funds mismanagement, based on reports from KVUE and Community Impact. Nelson, who vowed not to resign despite the limitations, has now lost the privilege of preparing city council agendas, barred from signing off proclamations, and cut from city boards, and he cannot traverse City Hall's employee-exclusive zones, spending city funds on business trips and public speaking appearances must be pre-approved by the council.
The Bastrop City Council resolution, dated April 29, also bars Nelson from speaking at events unless given the thumbs-up by city officials, limiting the mayor's influence and his previously unmonitored access to city coffers for event attendance and speaking engagements; meanwhile, a whiff of redemption hangs for Nelson, known in Bastrop's weak mayor system, who clings to his title, the resolution tethered to the fickle winds of council sentiment, capable of repeal with just three council votes in favor, as reported by Community Impact.
While some residents back the mayor, others vocally challenge his position amid the turmoil, suggesting he step down – calls Nelson adamantly dismisses. Councilmember Cynthia Meyer did not mince words when declaring, "Public servants are expected to be honest, truthful, transparent in their actions," Meyer affirmed at a city council meeting obtained by KVUE, "Lyle Nelson has proven he possesses none of these qualities." An ethics complaint lodged against Nelson on Jan. 18 accuses the mayor of lying and obstructing the investigation by failing to provide crucial text messages.
Despite these restrictions, Nelson insists on inoculating his tenure against the public's doubt, arguing that hostile factions are machinating not against him solely but against the essence of the mayoral office itself, as he deplored, "This personal vendetta will spill over into subverting the office of the mayor," in a statement during a council meeting per Community Impact.
As Bastrop forges ahead, a recall petition simmers, requiring 1,500 signatures to put Nelson's position to a direct public vote, while an established hotel occupancy tax task force braces to present recommendations, anticipating a shot at greater fiscal oversight before budget decisions hit the floor, according to Community Impact details.
