Van residents react to sudden changes in city leadership

VAN – In July alone, the city of Van lost its police chief, city manager, mayor and a council member. According to our news partner KETK, the changes stem from the controversial firing of their police chief by the city manager. Now, people who live in Van say they just want things to go back to normal. Community members gathered at city hall, Wednesday night all eager to learn who will temporarily lead their city. The council members voted unanimously to appoint, Ernie Burns as mayor pro-tem.

“It’s a tough place to be right now, but I feel like the city council has done a wonderful job at being open and transparent. I think they’re doing a wonderful job with what they have,” Ivy Lopez, Van resident, said.

July 1st, there was an uproar from residents after the police chief, Tammy Huff was fired by the city manager. Many people who live there stood by the chief, but others believed it was time for her to go.

“I’m glad she’s gone, but for this reason I’m not glad she’s gone, it’s kind of hard to say. I’ve spoke so ill of her over the last two years, violating civil rights and so on and so forth,” Michael Jarrett, Van resident, said.

In a special council meeting July 11, in response, the council decided to fire the city manager. The following day, the mayor and a councilwoman resigned.

“There’s always going to be rough patches like this wherever you go. There are a lot of big issues that are being discussed right now,” Lopez said.

Both residents agree that there needs to be a change to get back on the right path. Despite the turbulent week, they are hopeful for the future of Van.