New ethics complaint filed against Round Rock mayor
ROUND ROCK, Texas (KXAN) — A new ethics complaint has been filed against the mayor of Round Rock, Craig Morgan. It was filed in late August by Jill Farris, who lives in the city.
Farris argues Morgan has "profited significantly" by using his law firm as a vendor by the city for collections and fines placed against residents.
"Transparency really is the option here. We just need to be able to talk about it. And if there's nothing there, then there's nothing there," Farris said.
"As of May 2024, Craig Morgan and his law firm, McCreary, Veselka, Bragg & Allen PC (MVBA), earned at least $1,569,620.77 by suing Round Rock citizens to collect late property taxes, court fees, and library fines on behalf of the City - the same City that he represents as Mayor," the complaint said.
Farris also argues the fines and fees were not approved by the city council — instead improperly approved by city manager Laurie Hadley.
"From all appearances, Morgan is negotiating these agreements behind closed doors with his City Manager, since he 'oversees' these services for Williamson County on MVBA’s behalf," the complaint said.
Morgan said in a statement this concern was investigated in 2017 after a KXAN report.
In a statement, Morgan said:
I have received a copy of the complaint and will fully respond to the Ethics Commission as they may request.
It is important to note that this concern was investigated thoroughly in 2017. At that time, the investigation revealed that I did not violate the Round Rock City Charter or State Law. There are no new facts under this complaint.
Every citizen has the right to bring an ethics complaint to the City. We will always do our due diligence to fully investigate any claim made, like we did in 2017.
I look forward to the process and remain confident that no violations occurred.
Mayor Craig Morgan
Farris said she just wants people to be aware and to be able to have a conversation about the city's financial dealings.
A hearing is set for Oct. 9 on the issue.
You can read the full ethics complaint below: