The Minden City Council voted unanimously Monday to accept Police Chief Jared McIver’s recommendation to terminate Detective Jason Smith following an internal investigation into his conduct.
The decision came after the council met in executive session for about an hour during a special session held the afternoon of August 25. Smith’s attorney, Ms. Breedlove, had requested the matter be decided publicly, but the City of Minden’s special counsel, Aaron Green of Faircloth, Melton, Bash & Green, LLC, recommended executive session.
“As he [Smith] is the subject of this investigation, he has the right to having his hearing and all the discussions about him held in public, and that is his desire,” Breedlove stated.
Attorney Green rebutted, “This provision of open meetings law does not contemplate any waiver or requirement that it be discussed in a public place.” He again recommended going into executive session.
Councilman Andy Pendergrass, District E, made the motion to go into executive session, seconded by Councilman Buddy Myles, District A.
When the council returned, Councilwoman Latasha Michell, District C, moved to uphold McIver’s recommendation, with Pendergrass seconding. The motion passed unanimously.
Earlier in the meeting, the council unanimously passed a budget amendment to fund $45,534 in emergency plumbing repairs at the Civic Center. The building, which also houses City Hall, is currently using temporary restroom facilities outside due to failing plumbing.