In a move that caught many by surprise, Johnson County Precinct 2 Commissioner John Matthews tendered his resignation on Monday.
The announcement by Matthews came at the beginning of a regular business meeting of the Johnson County Commissioners Court.
In a somber tone and trying to keep his emotions in check, Matthews said his election as commissioner more than eight years ago was one of his proudest accomplishments.
“I have done everything in my ability to serve the people of Johnson County,” he said. “It has become time that I must step down.”
He did not cite reasons for the abrupt resignation.
County officials also would not comment on an ongoing investigation at Matthews’ precinct for what a county audit states are unauthorized purchases of toilet paper, laundry detergent, pool supplies and other items from a Burleson Home Depot.
A report submitted to the Johnson County Commissioners Court by County Auditor Kirk Kirkpatrick this month stated that a county Home Depot credit card was used to purchase products between Oct. 1 and May 31 that were not used in the Precinct 2 office.
The report also stated that the purchases were made by an unauthorized employee and receipts turned in to the precinct office were unsigned.
Matthews told the Times-Review last week that among the items purchased included Dixie cups, Bounty paper towels, Tide detergent, Cascade detergent, Charmin toilet paper, air filters and yard equipment.
Johnson County Judge Roger Harmon said the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Texas Rangers, is conducting the investigation, but could not comment further.
“John over the years has been a great asset in a lot of areas for the court,” Harmon said. “I think that the decision that he made was probably the best decision for him.”
Matthews said the purchases, about $1,300 to $1,500, also included small tools and supplies for the construction maintenance facility.
Matthews also said the products were used at the Burleson sub-courthouse and for the construction maintenance facility.
“It’s sad when something like this happens. It’s not easy to see a colleague do something that jeopardizes such a great career,” said Precinct 1 Commissioner Rick Bailey. “We don’t know all the reasons why, but as Christians we do forgive. I hope that John can find peace with it and forgive himself and let his family move on.”
The report also stated that paper and cleaning supplies were purchased 10 times between October and May, and that pool chemicals were also purchased during that time.
“It was expected. It’s unfortunate, but it had to occur,” said Precinct 4 Commissioner Don Beeson. “I think it’s the best think that could happen for the county and for Commissioner Matthews. He can devote his full-time attention now to correcting whatever errors or bad judgement or decisions he may have done. Hopefully, it will come out best for him and his family.”
Sheriff Bob Alford said the investigation is ongoing.
“I think that we need to acknowledge that it took a lot of courage on his part to face people,” Alord said.
Matthews was first elected to his post in 2002 and was re-elected to a third term last year.
Local News
BREAKING NEWS: Matthews resigns
Investigation into unauthorized purchases continue
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May/June 2012 Community Life magazine
The May/June 2012 edition of Community Life magazine is available for online viewing. Click here to view.
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