‘Oppressive and toxic behavior’ Group of community leaders take aim at Tarrant County Judge

Tensions escalated during Tuesday’s commissioner’s court meeting in Tarrant County as County Judge Tim O’Hare and Commissioner Alisa Simmons engaged in a heated exchange, sparking community outcry.

The dispute arose as Simmons raised concerns about an agenda item regarding a contract approval for professional services from political strategist Noah Betz, contracted by O’Hare’s office.

In response, O’Hare accused Simmons of utilizing her staff to post political messages on her X account. He asserted authority, instructing Simmons to remain silent and listen while he spoke.

Simmons retorted, asserting her right to speak at her discretion, prompting accusations of racial undertones in the exchange from community leaders like Michael Bell of Unity in the Community Coalition of Tarrant County.

Addressing the incident, a spokesperson for O’Hare’s office defended the judge’s actions, highlighting past instances where Simmons had allegedly raised unfounded racism claims and exhibited unprofessional behavior in meetings.

Simmons, however, expressed disappointment in O’Hare’s conduct, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and respect in public discourse.

Community leaders, including Estella Williams of the Fort Worth-Tarrant County NAACP, denounced O’Hare’s behavior and called for accountability, urging community members to voice their concerns at the next commissioners meeting.

In a united effort for change, Pastor Kennedy Jones of the NAACP Arlington chapter emphasized the need to address oppressive behavior and foster a culture of respect and collaboration.