FREMONT, Neb. — The mayor of Fremont has blocked an effort to fire two top city employees, arguing that it violates Nebraska state law and city codes.
City Council member Susan Jacobus submitted a resolution to terminate the contracts of City Administrator Brian Newton and Assistant City Administrator Shane Wimer.
Fremont Mayor Scott Getzschman voided the resolution at a council meeting Tuesday night, noting that city administrators are appointed by the mayor and can remain on the job for as long as the mayor is serving. Getzschman said they can be removed by the mayor, with majority approval from the City Council. His argument was backed by the city attorney.
Jacobus said a different attorney advised her that the council could override the mayor’s decision to keep the city administrator. City Attorney Mark Enenbach said city officials could discuss the matter more at another meeting when her attorney could be present.
Getzschman said the attempt to fire Wimer was also illegal because he was hired by city staff, not the council, and is protected under the city’s human resources policy.
