Two-minute impact
During the conference, Nelson said the treatment he has received from some council members has prevented him from serving in his full capacity as mayor.
Nelson said that in an attempt to end the “witch hunt” against him, he “extended an olive branch on multiple occasions to no avail.”
“I will no longer be a focal point,” Nelson said during the conference. “I will no longer be a part of a group that chooses to bring embarrassment to our community for their selective indignation.”
Nelson said he hopes his resignation moves the city forward.
What’s next?
Following the conference, City Manager Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino told Community Impact that she is “happy to move forward,” and a special meeting will be scheduled soon for City Council members to officially accept Nelson's resignation.
Mayor Pro Tem John Kirkland will serve in Nelson’s stead until a new mayor is elected in the upcoming May 3 elections.
Those interested in running for Bastrop’s next mayor have until Feb. 14 to submit their applications, which can be picked up at City Hall, 1311 Chestnut St., Bastrop.
The timeline
- June 20, 2023: Nelson begins his mayoral position
- August 2023: Visit Bastrop employees file complaints about financial misconduct
- Aug. 31, 2023: Investigation into Nelson’s alleged misconduct begins
- Dec. 20, 2023: Investigation concludes
- Jan. 18, 2024: Ethics complaint is filed by Mayor Pro Tem John Kirkland
- April 10, 2024: Bastrop Ethics Commission issues a letter of reprimand against Nelson
- April 29, 2024: Council members pass a resolution placing eight limitations on Nelson
- July 25, 2024: The recall petition is submitted
- Aug. 13, 2024: City Secretary Irma Parker says she needs more time to review the recall petition
- Aug. 24, 2024: Parker notifies petition organizers of the rejection
- Sept. 3, 2024: Petition organizers submit the updated petition
- Sept. 15, 2024: Parker notifies petitioners that the petition is sufficient
- Sept. 17, 2024: Parker publicly announces her findings
- Sept. 23, 2024: Nelson files the writ of mandamus
- Sept. 24, 2024: The Visit Bastrop Investigation involving Susan Smith was no-billed by a grand jury
- Nov. 21, 2024: Special City Council meeting to discuss the conduct of the city manager
- Nov. 25, 2024: The Court of Appeals responds to Nelson’s request with one sentence: “The petition for writ of mandamus is denied.”
- Jan. 14: Nelson announces his resignation at a press conference
- Feb. 14: Deadline for those interested in applying for the vacant mayor position
- May 3: Election day