In a significant turn of events during the City of Freeport's Special City Council Meeting on June 11, 2025, the council voted unanimously to terminate the employment contract of interim city attorney Olson and Olsen. This decision followed a closed executive session, indicating serious discussions regarding the city's legal representation.

The meeting took a dramatic turn when Councilman Pina made a motion to terminate City Manager Lance Petty. This motion was based on findings from an investigation report concerning Chief Howe, which allegedly revealed serious misconduct, including insubordination and creating a hostile work environment. The report also included recorded evidence of threats against city council members, which is currently under investigation by state law enforcement.

Council members expressed the importance of transparency, urging the public to access the open records related to the investigation. Councilman Pina encouraged citizens to review the recordings and transcripts to form their own opinions about the situation. He emphasized that the information was now public and available for scrutiny.

The council's decision to terminate Petty's employment was passed with a vote of 3 to 1, reflecting a divided opinion among council members. This decision marks a pivotal moment for the city, as it seeks to address serious allegations and restore confidence in its leadership.

As the meeting concluded, the council moved to adjourn, but the implications of these decisions will likely resonate throughout the community as Freeport navigates the aftermath of these significant personnel changes. The council's actions highlight ongoing challenges in governance and the importance of accountability in public service.