Council faces public pressure over transparency in Chief Mallinger investigation

Cedar Park City Council faced intense scrutiny during its July 10, 2025, meeting as community members voiced concerns over transparency and accountability within the fire department. The meeting was marked by emotional testimonies from Karen and David Dasher, who highlighted serious allegations against Fire Chief Mallinger regarding the withholding of critical evidence in a civil service hearing involving their son, Dean Dasher.

Karen Dasher opened her remarks by acknowledging the recent flooding and the bravery of first responders, but quickly shifted focus to express her discontent with the council's handling of the investigation into Chief Mallinger's actions. She accused the city leadership of failing to uphold the values of transparency and accountability, particularly in relation to her son's experience during a fire incident in August 2023. Her passionate plea underscored the emotional toll on her family and called for recognition of Dean's courage and service.

David Dasher followed with a detailed account of the alleged misconduct, presenting evidence that he claimed demonstrated Chief Mallinger's failure to provide crucial video evidence during Dean's hearing. He argued that the chief had sent this evidence to the Texas Forest Service on the same day it was subpoenaed, raising questions about fairness in the investigation process. David urged the council to take action by placing the matter on the agenda for the next meeting, emphasizing the need for transparency to restore public trust.

In response, council members acknowledged the ongoing review of the situation by external legal counsel and the Texas Attorney General's office. They reiterated their commitment to a thorough investigation but did not commit to an immediate vote on the Dasher's requests. The council's reluctance to share findings has fueled community distrust, as highlighted by David Dasher's call for accountability and transparency.

The discussions at this meeting reflect a growing demand for clarity and justice within Cedar Park's fire department, as residents seek assurance that their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns and restoring faith in local governance.