Administrator resigns citing ‘toxic atmosphere’

CHANDLER, Texas (KETK) – Chandler city administrator Kalon Rollins issued his resignation on Friday, saying it’s in his best interest to remove himself from a “toxic atmosphere” in the city’s government. Rollins’ resignation comes after a Thursday city council meeting where Chandler city council members considered taking action against Rollins and the current Chandler Police Chief Johnny Foster for improper spending, bond issues, social media policy and hiring policies.

“There comes a point when all efforts have failed, a change is required. With much thought and prayer, I have decided it is in my best interest to remove myself from the ongoing toxic atmosphere within the city government,” Rollins said on Friday. “I respect the fact that a newly elected council can bring new ideas and potential changes in city government procedures, and in some cases new ideas from newcomers can often contribute to an increase in a city’s abilities.”

“I believe a few of the current council members have the best intentions in mind to bring positive change to the city, but only time will tell if they have the fortitude to make the needed changes,” Rollins said. “With that being said, however, I do not see a positive path forward under the current circumstances. If a city council does not have trust in their administrative staff or conversely staff in the council, there can be no way to move and grow in a positive direction.”

Rollins formerly served as the city’s chief of police and was appointed as city administrator in June, 2025. On Friday, he said the city’s employees are true friends and that he’s praying for peace to fall on the city’s government.

“My family and I love this community and Chandler will continue to be our home. I will continue to serve this community in the next chapter of my life because I firmly believe you get out of it what you put in,” Rollins said. “I cannot express enough how humbled I am for your support during my career with the city, there’s not an hour goes by when I don’t get a call or message supporting me and it has never gone unnoticed. Thank you and God bless.”

The City of Chandler hired Ronald D. Stutes, 67 of Tyler, as the new Chandler City Attorney during Thursday’s meeting.