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Sedalia Today
By the People, for the People
Sedalia City Employee Departs After Online Comments Critical of Mayoral Candidate
The city announced the unnamed employee's departure after unauthorized comments were made on the city's social media account.
Mar. 17, 2026 at 9:52pm
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The City of Sedalia announced that an unnamed city employee is no longer employed after posting comments on the city's Facebook account defending the current mayor, Andrew Dawson, who is running against city employee Traves Williams in the upcoming municipal election. The city said the comments were not authorized and did not meet expectations for how the city communicates with the public. Access to the city's social media accounts has now been limited to three people as the city updates its social media policy.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the importance of maintaining impartiality and professionalism in local government communications, especially during election seasons when tensions can run high. The city's swift action in addressing the unauthorized social media activity and updating its policies demonstrates a commitment to upholding democratic principles and public trust.
The details
Screenshots circulating on social media showed a comment from the city's Facebook account defending current mayor Andrew Dawson, made in response to a community group post that was critical of Traves Williams, a city employee running against Dawson. The city announced the unnamed employee's departure, noting that responsibility for social media accounts has shifted to the city administrator's office. City administrator Matthew Wirt said the comments were not authorized and did not meet expectations for how the city communicates with the public. As of Tuesday morning, access to the city's social media accounts is limited to three people, and the city is in the process of updating its social media policy.
- On March 16, 2026, the City of Sedalia announced the unnamed employee's departure.
- On March 17, 2026, the city administrator said access to the city's social media accounts is limited to three people, and the city is updating its social media policy.
The players
Andrew Dawson
The current mayor of Sedalia who is running for re-election.
Traves Williams
A city employee running against Andrew Dawson in the upcoming municipal election.
Matthew Wirt
The city administrator of Sedalia.
What they’re saying
“The comments were not authorized by the city and did not meet expectations for how the city communicates with the public.”
— Matthew Wirt, City Administrator
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
