Mayo Resigns

“I am not the city administrator for this town. I am pro-growth and economic development.” — Sergio Mayo. Dennis Phillips publisher@robconews.com Robertson County News CALVERT — The Calvert City Council met Monday night in a packed session that included the swearing-in of newly elected aldermen, discussion of upcoming city events and the resignation announcement of City Manager Sergio Moya. Moya formally resigned his position during the meeting, citing differences in vision for the future of the city. During his address to the council and audience, Moya described himself as a pro-growth and pro-economic development leader focused on improving quality of life and standard of living within the community. Moya stated that his contract required a 30-day notice and indicated that July 10 would likely serve as his final day with the city. He also warned the council that finding a replacement city administrator could take four to five months and suggested the city consider hiring an executive search firm to assist with the process. During his remarks, Moya acknowledged that he originally planned to discuss the resignation during executive session but instead chose to address the issue publicly before the crowded council chambers. “I’m not the type of City Administrator for the town. I’m about moving forward, the quality of life and the standard of living. You have spoken, I’m not the City Administrator for you,” said Moya. “The city does not run by itself. I don’t want to die here.” Moya’s resignation comes during a period of significant turnover within Calvert city government. In recent weeks, the city has seen multiple resignations and terminations involving key positions, including two alderman seats, the city secretary, the city accountant and now the city manager, all during the early months of newly elected Mayor James Evans’ administration. Before the swearing-in ceremony, the council discussed the purchase of a new utility truck that is currently being retrofitted by Wedgworth’s Ironworks. The vehicle was purchased at a discounted cost of $15,100, coming in under the city’s projected budget. Once the upgrades are complete, the truck will be placed into service within the City of Calvert utility fleet. City officials noted the truck is expected to improve the city’s ability to collect, chip and properly dispose of tree limbs and brush, an issue that has remained a lingering concern for residents and utility crews. The council also heard the monthly report from the Calvert Police Department during the meeting. Following the business items, newly elected council members were officially sworn into office. Karen Blackwell took the oath for Place 1, Glenn Van Dyke was sworn in for Place 3 and Diana Grimes was re-elected and sworn in again for Place 5. Each signed their oath of office and formally pledged their commitment to serving the City of Calvert. Council members later discussed the possible return of the Pikes Trail Ride Memorial event scheduled for June 27 at Payne Camp and Rube Foster parks in Calvert. The trail ride event, previously organized by Jamison “Mert” Williams, had created controversy in the prior year after numerous after-party gatherings spread throughout portions of Calvert along Texas Avenue and into neighboring Hearne near the Love’s Travel Stop.