Grayville Commissioner Andi Ford addressed recent public rumors Monday night regarding the alleged misuse of city credit cards, calling the claims “ludicrous” and urging residents to verify facts before spreading misinformation.
“I can assure you that anything charged to a city credit card is 100% verified with receipts,” Ford said. “The particular charges in question are travel accommodations and registration expenses for four separate city employees who have attended training and conferences recently. To be bombarded with misinformation questioning the validity of these charges is ludicrous.”
Ford said she was troubled that specific financial figures from city billing statements were being discussed publicly when, according to her, no one had officially requested those records from City Hall.
“It can only mean someone who was provided with these figures is behind this dissemination of false accusations,” she added. “It’s not my job to point the finger, but I would be remiss in my duties as finance commissioner if I didn’t address the issue.”
Ford suggested the motive behind the rumors may be political.
“I have a feeling it’s to sully the reputation of the people who are doing their best to serve this city in order to promote one’s self in the public eye,” she said. “Those of you who are believing this nonsense, please check on the validity of statements before spreading misinformation further.”
She also praised residents who directly sought clarification.
“Kudos to those who have actually approached our treasurer and council members to ask about these accusations of fraud,” Ford said. “Any accusation of impropriety against our mayor or city administrator over the misuse of funds not only places a shadow of blame across those individuals, but also implicates everyone involved in verifying expenditures.”
Ford’s comments came during the opening portion of Monday’s meeting, which entered a 20-minute executive session soon after.
When the council reconvened, members accepted the resignation of City Administrator and former Police Chief Robert Hatcher. No details were provided, though Ford, Commissioner Don Baldwin, and Mayor Travis Thompson each expressed regret over his departure.
Hatcher has served as city administrator since September 2024, following the retirement of longtime City Clerk Jo Ellen Seil, who worked for the city for 37 years. The city is now seeking applicants for the administrator position, with details available on the City of Grayville’s Facebook page. A special meeting is scheduled for November 7 at 8 a.m. to review résumés.
In other business, council members approved the 2025–2026 Tax Levy Estimate, opting not to raise taxes. The levy is expected to generate $267,182, with adjustments ensuring appropriate funding for the Grayville Public Library. Council rejected both a 3% and a 4.9% increase that would have raised additional revenue but impacted taxpayers.
Leaders also approved a $15,000 park project investment to upgrade electrical service at the concession stand. Mayor Thompson said the Prep Committee will oversee the expansion project.
Finally, the council granted permission for members of the VFW and American Legion to collect donations at the city’s four-way intersection on November 8 for Poppy Day.