GEDC chairman resigns over council actions

The chairman of the Gonzales Economic Development Corporation has resigned over a disagreement with some members of the Gonzales City Council.

Dewey Smith, then-president of the GEDC, submitted his resignation last Monday over what Smith called “current political dynamics have eroded and virtually eliminated the value of independent spirit and thought.”

Smith is referring to the city council’s decision to reject the GEDC’s recommendation to appoint former Tourism Director Clint Hill to the board. Instead, Gonzales Mayor Connie Kacir asked the council to appoint her and councilman Dan Blakemore to the board. The council voted 5-0 to approve the resolution, including Mayor Kacir and councilman Blakemore voting for themselves.

Smith went on to add, “This is particularly concerning to me as I witness the exodus of experience, dedication, education, and collaborative ethics from paid and volunteer positions in the city…However, I believe the current climate comprises who I am fundamentally. I can, therefore, no longer in good conscience, abide being a part of a culture that would seek to marginalize, diminish or belittle my voice, my work, and that of my neighbors.”