Ethics Hearing May 21, 2026

The City of Rock Springs held an ethics hearing on May 21, 2026, to address a formal ethics complaint filed by Councilman Rick Malonas against Mayor Max Mickelson. The complaint alleged violations of city ordinance 30.48, including abuse of power, harassment, lack of civility, election interference, and misuse of official position. The hearing involved the presentation and admission of multiple exhibits from both parties, outlining timelines, correspondence, and responses related to the allegations. Both parties were given opportunities for opening statements, with Malonas outlining a pattern of alleged intimidation and abuse of power by the mayor. The mayor reserved his opening statement and later moved to dismiss the complaint, arguing that Malonas failed to meet the clear and convincing evidence standard required by the ordinance. The hearing was procedural and focused on evaluating the evidence and adherence to the ordinance rather than criminal matters. No procurement, contracting, or budget discussions were part of this meeting.