DeSoto City Council Runoff: Candidate Eligibility Questioned Over Felony Conviction Documentation

DeSoto City Council Runoff

• 🗳️ A runoff election is set to decide who will take DeSoto City Council place three between Ken Waters and Everett Jackson.
• ⚠️ Candidate Everett Jackson's eligibility is being questioned due to missing documentation regarding a past felony conviction.

Eligibility and Documentation

• 📜 Jackson disclosed a past felony conviction and stated he has discharged the sentence.
• 📧 The city secretary reportedly informed Jackson that he did not submit the proper paperwork to run for the seat.
• ⚖️ The city manager cited Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, which allows candidates with prior felonies to submit judicial clemency, executive pardon, or restoration of rights.
• ⏳ Jackson claims he has until Friday to submit the correct paperwork, but anticipates submitting a temporary restraining order instead.

City's Response and Voter Concerns

• 🏛️ The city states they are following legal counsel and working with guidance from the secretary of state.
• 📢 The city manager mentioned an open records request alerted them to Jackson's application.
• 😔 A sentiment is expressed that the situation is unfortunate and could have been avoided with more due diligence and transparency.
• 🚫 Ken Waters' campaign has not provided a comment at this time.