Rusk City Manager Faces Threatened Termination As Attorney Alleges Whistleblower Retaliation

RUSK, Texas (TXAN 24) — An attorney representing Rusk Interim City Manager Victoria D. Minton has accused city officials of potential whistleblower retaliation and warned that removing her from her position could expose the city to litigation.

In an October 17 letter to the Rusk City Council, attorney Eric N. Roberson of Glast, Phillips, Murray & Zopolsky, P.C., alleged that Minton faced possible termination or other adverse employment action after raising concerns about city finances, government meeting procedures and suspected legal violations.

The letter was sent ahead of a council meeting scheduled for October 19, at which Minton’s continued employment was reportedly expected to be considered.

According to Roberson, Minton began reporting financial and accounting concerns shortly after joining the city in September 2025. He also cited alleged irregularities involving executive-session decisions, employment actions, budget preparation and communications with law enforcement.

The attorney contends that Minton’s reports may qualify for protection under the Texas Whistleblower Act. He further alleges that a council member’s insistence that Minton attend the October 19 meeting conflicted with medical leave recommended by her physician.

The letter states that Minton does not intend to resign and prefers to remain in her position under conditions that allow her to perform her duties lawfully. Alternatively, Roberson offered to resolve her claims through a negotiated separation involving $112,000 in severance and additional terms.

The allegations have not been independently established by the letter, and it does not establish that a court has found the city or any council member liable for wrongdoing.

TXAN 24 News is seeking comment from the City of Rusk, the City Attorney, Mayor Jim Middlebrooks, the council members identified in the letter and the city’s contracted accounting professional.

The dispute raises questions about municipal financial oversight, public accountability and the protections available to government employees who report suspected legal violations.