Rusk Terminates Interim City Manager Amid Leadership Turnover And Growing Questions Over City Hall

RUSK, Texas (TXAN 24) — The City of Rusk has terminated Interim City Manager Victoria D. Minton following a letter from her attorney raising concerns about potential retaliation and protections under Texas whistleblower law, adding another development to the city’s ongoing leadership turmoil.

In an Oct. 17, 2026, letter addressed to the Rusk City Council, attorney Eric N. Roberson of Glast, Phillips, Murray & Zopolsky, P.C., outlined Minton’s concerns about threatened adverse employment action and asserted that her reporting of potential wrongdoing involved legally protected activity.

The letter described reports Minton allegedly made to the Texas Rangers, the city attorney and other parties concerning potential violations involving government meetings, criminal matters, elections and municipal finances.

Roberson sought to protect Minton’s employment, authority and compensation and called for safeguards against retaliation. The letter also stated that Minton was not resigning and referenced her anticipated removal on Oct. 19.

Minton’s subsequent termination raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the decision and whether city officials considered the concerns outlined in the attorney’s letter. The timing alone does not establish that the termination was retaliatory or unlawful.

Rusk has faced significant leadership changes, including the departure of former City Manager Bob Goldsberry and the resignation of Mayor Middlebrooks earlier this month and now Minton.

TXAN 24 News is seeking clarification from city officials regarding the reasons for Minton’s termination, the city’s response to the attorney’s allegations and plans for interim administrative leadership.