LE ROY — Last week’s Le Roy City Council meeting saw the sudden resignation of council member Bryson Meats after the reading of a citizen complaint and a court-issued protection order, according to the Coffey County Republican.
Mayor Steve Cox read the formal complaint submitted against Meats. Documentation included a petition for protection from stalking and sexual assault, filed March 25, and granted earlier that day by the court for a two-year period.
“The complaint reads that Bryson Meats is sexually harassing members of the community and his character is unfit for city leadership,” Cox said. The Republican’s article reported Cox and City Attorney Daniel Smith had spoken with the complainant, and that Meats did not appear at the court hearing earlier that day.
“I agree with the judge and the court, so I didn’t argue it,” Meats said. “I called the court office and told them I would not be showing up to the court and I was OK with this case number…that is all I am going to say.”
According to the article, Cox then cited Kansas statute K.S.A. 60-1205 regarding misconduct in office and then told Meats, “Bryson, if you don’t want to resign, I am going to suggest that the city council make a motion that we move this on to [the county attorney] to be prosecuted.”
“If you guys want me to resign, I will,” Meats said.
“That is up to you, Bryson. It is not up to us,” Cox replied.
“Yeah, I think it’s best. I will resign, effective immediately,” said Meats. “I appreciate you guys for having me on the council. This was fun. I think we got a lot accomplished. So, I am going to resign.”
The Republican’s article notes that Meats’ resignation leaves two vacant seats on the Le Roy City Council. The first became vacant after the death of council member Lyle Sherwood on March 10. Mayor Cox said he intends to appoint replacements at the next regular meeting on May 5.
