Galena Park meeting packed with people after mayor changes City Hall locks to oust fired city officials

GALENA PARK, TX (KTRK) -- There are new latest developments in an ongoing dispute in the city of Galena Park, where the mayor tried cleaning house and even went as far as changing the locks at City Hall.

More than 150 people showed up there because they say they want a brighter future for Galena Park.

Right now, they're witnessing a nasty fight between city leaders; namely, the newly elected mayor, Esmeralda Moya, and the city administrator, Robert Pruett.

On her first day in office on July 1, Moya, who was elected by a landslide, fired Pruett, along with the city attorney and police chief. But they're refusing to leave, saying Moya can't unilaterally fire them without support from commissioners. Monday at City Hall, commissioners voted to hire outside legal council to deal with the matter.

Meanwhile, the mayor is getting overwhelming support from Galena Park citizens.

"I do hope that change comes and we get new people here that really want to make a change for Galena Park, 'cause the ones we have right now don't. They're only looking out for their own interests," resident Beatrice Medina said. "She's from Galena Park and she's looking for a better Galena Park."

In dramatic fashion, Mayor Moya even had the locks changed to City Hall, including the locks to the offices of the four commissioners.

We'll keep you updated about any developments on this story.