League City Council Member Resigns Amid Investigation Dispute

Justin Hicks, a member of the League City Council, stepped down from his role on March 1 after a public disagreement with city officials regarding a police investigation related to a reported domestic disturbance at his residence. His departure creates a vacancy that will be addressed through a special election, anticipated to be called by the City Council during its meeting on March 11.

A special meeting initially set for March 5 featured an agenda item that had the potential to lead to Hicks’ censure for breaching city regulations. The proposed resolution referenced his purported effort to obstruct Police Chief Cliff Woitena's investigation into the disturbance, which city officials claimed breached protocols that forbid elected officials from meddling in law enforcement issues. After Hicks submitted his resignation, the meeting was subsequently canceled.

In his resignation letter, Hicks expressed that his choice was driven by personal and family priorities, emphasizing that no laws or procedures were violated by anyone in his household. He thanked the community and his fellow council members for their support.

Mayor Nick Long recognized Hicks’ contributions and extended his best wishes, while the council’s draft resolution criticized his actions for eroding public trust.

Hicks, first elected in 2020 and re-elected in 2024 with nearly 54% of the vote, vacates a seat that must be filled according to city code, as more than a year remains in the term. The forthcoming special election will decide who will take his place.

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