I kept looking at the pieces — the expired terms, the legal authority, the open discussion event — and then it hit me — this isn’t about JEDCO. It’s about City Council. They are the ones who hold the power. The real decision-makers will not be at this event — they’re in City Council chambers.

Board members serve until replaced by City Council — a fact confirmed by Mr. Walker himself, who stated, “We serve until we’re replaced by the city council.”

City Council could have enforced change at any time. But they haven’t. Some JEDCO board members have remained in place for 16 years, despite Texas law stating that no individual term may exceed six years.

According to Texas Local Government Code §504.051, the law is clear:

• City Council appoints every JEDCO board member.
• No individual term may exceed six years.
• Terms are staggered.
• City Council can remove board members at any time, with or without cause.

That being said, let’s take a closer look at our Council and their stance on JEDCO.

Bob Mayhar and Lequin Hilderbrand aren’t neutral players — they are deeply tied to JEDCO’s leadership.

Bob Mayhar (District 2) was handpicked by Danny Walker, ensuring his loyalty to JEDCO’s leadership.

Lequin Hilderbrand (also District 2) sits on the JEDCO board, meaning he has a direct stake in keeping things as they are.

DeMarcus Holmes (District 3) has historically aligned with JEDCO, but my hope is he will not reinforce the existing system — rather push for change.

Mamie Horn Aplon (District 1) has spoken out — expired terms should be given up.

Angel McCroskey (District 4) has consistently stood up for the law and with the people.

The mayor, who is also from District 2, may not have a vote, but he has influence, and his stance on JEDCO has remained in line with preserving its structure.

The question isn’t just whether City Council will act — it’s whether the majority will push past District 2’s grip on JEDCO.

District 2 may have shaped much of Jasper’s leadership, but its influence cannot drown out the voices of those demanding change.

City Council has the authority to fix this — but they’ve chosen not to. The law is clear, and the people of Jasper must demand that their representatives uphold it. And if they won’t, they should be recalled and replaced.

This City Council has a rare opportunity — one that will define its legacy for years to come. The decisions they make today will determine whether Jasper moves forward toward true representation or remains under the influence of a select few. This is their chance to step beyond political alliances and serve every citizen — not just those who have long held the power.

Real leadership isn’t about maintaining the status quo. It’s about recognizing when change is necessary and having the courage to act. The question now is whether City Council will seize this moment — or allow history to repeat itself.

Public relations theater won’t bring accountability. Only action will. And that action starts with the people holding their leaders’ feet to the fire and demanding they follow the law.