During a recent Mansfield city council meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the hiring of a former city council member as a consultant, which has sparked controversy over fiscal responsibility and transparency.

Tammy Miller, a retired city employee, addressed the council, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the city's foundational values of transparency and fiscal responsibility. She highlighted that the former council member is set to receive an annual salary of $220,000, along with additional benefits such as a car allowance, a city email, and an office in city hall. This compensation ranks the consultant fifth among 543 budgeted city employees, raising eyebrows about the appropriateness of such a package.

Miller also pointed out that another consultant position, initially offered to a former school district employee at nearly $200,000, was declined but had already resulted in a signed contract and payment. She expressed concern that these actions appear to favor certain individuals at the expense of taxpayers, questioning the necessity and value of these roles in relation to essential city services like police and fire departments.

The retired employee urged the council to reconsider these decisions, suggesting that the funds allocated for these positions could be better spent on public safety and essential services. She called for a commitment to transparency and accountability, urging council members to conduct their own research rather than relying solely on external information.

The meeting also included a reminder for citizens wishing to speak to complete a speaker card, as per Texas Open Meetings Act regulations, which restrict council responses during the citizen comment period. The council's next steps regarding the concerns raised remain to be seen as the community awaits further clarification and action.