Sanchez ousted from San Benito Commission

By CATHERINE DONNELLY
Special to the NEWS

At the regular meeting of the San Benito City Commission Tuesday evening, March 19, the fate of Carol Lynn Sanchez’s Place 4 Commissioner’s seat was settled by declaring it vacated by a unanimous vote.

Resolution Number 2024-0319-003(R) passed, which officially made the position of Place 4 City Commissioner, which was held by Sanchez, vacated or abandoned as she allegedly became unqualified to hold office in the City of San Benito.

According to the Commissioner, she had a few more meetings to complete her term which concludes in May. The reason given was that she no longer resided within the city limits which was a qualification of that office, as per the San Benito City Charter.

“Today marks the end of an era as I conclude my tenure as your dedicated City of San Benito Commissioner Pl. 4, but it also signals the beginning of a new chapter in serving our community! Regrettably, the current Commission decided to end my term and commitment early, despite my plan to complete it,” said Sanchez in a statement posted on social media. “Together, we can create a culture of respect, kindness, and progress.”

Sanchez announced that she was running for Janie Lopez’s State seat for District 37 in the beginning of December 2023 during her second term as Commissioner. At that time, she had six months left in her term. She also announced her plans to move to Harlingen.

“When Carol Sanchez moved to Harlingen, she no longer qualified to be on the City Council in San Benito,” said Javier Villalobos, interim San Benito City Attorney. “It was an automatic forfeiture because she no longer met all the qualifications for the position.”

“They have cited the city charter. The same charter which also applies to the well-compensated City Manager who does not reside in our municipality,” said Sanchez in her statement.

“I am in the process of moving to Harlingen, but I still own my home in San Benito,” said Sanchez. “I could’ve finished out the two months left in my term.”

Sanchez had just suffered some recent losses with her ex-husband dying unexpectedly in October, and a close friend, Michael Vargas, former embattled San Benito CISD School Board of Trustees President, passing away shortly afterwards. While running as a Democrat in the Texas House, she lost in the primary on March 5.

“….their decision to [oust me from my position] now, after my personal struggles and political loss, truly demonstrates the true character of those elected,” said Sanchez in her statement.

San Benito Mayor Ricardo “Rick” Guerra deferred comment to the interim City Attorney, feeling that the situation was a legal matter.

Meanwhile, Sanchez received words of support on social media. “Remember what’s done in the dark will come to light; stand in faith and your journey will always be blessed. Love you, Boss Lady,” wrote Lori Galvan. Meanwhile, Marie Reyes wrote, “Wow! Speechless, what are they afraid of? You are strong and beautiful. You go.”