Following a hearing on his potential suspension, Hays County district clerk resigns

Correction: Amy Clark Meachum is a district judge in Travis County. A previous version of this story misstated the county where Meachum serves as a judge.

Facing removal from office , Hays County District Clerk Avrey Anderson resigned on Friday in hopes to end the "incredibly stressful" proceeding.

In a resignation letter sent to Hays County district judges, Anderson confirmed he would step away from the position on Friday, detailing his frustrations over the perceived constant scrutiny he has received since being elected in 2022 at age 19.

"I do not believe it is good for justice and the courts for me to continue in my role currently," Anderson wrote. "Perhaps one day I will be able to get back into the government sector but for now I believe it is best for the people of Hays County to have someone who hopefully attracts less negative attention to themselves."

During a June 25 hearing, Anderson was accused of professional incompetence, negligence of his official duties and fostering a hostile work environment.

While Travis County District Judge Amy Clark Meachum ended the hearing without ruling on Anderson's immediate suspension, she was emphatic about avoiding delays in the lead-up to an October trial on Anderson's permanent removal from office.

Detailing concerns over missing court filings, undelivered subpoenas and absent jury summonses, officials for the clerk's and district attorney's offices walked through the daily working relationship with Anderson and the logistical issues under his leadership.

"We hit a stretch where we didn't have any juries showing up," Gregg Cox, Hays County first assistant district attorney, testified. "Mr. Anderson did not seem aware that he needed to be doing that."

Anderson's antics were also a large focus during the proceeding, as Maximiliano Hernandez, a deputy clerk in the office, testified with dismay over Anderson's treatment of his employees and his unwillingness to dedicate more time to learning the details of the job.

"It's frustrating that this is the third time I've had to testify about this administration," Hernandez said at the time. "Quite frankly, it's embarrassing to have this case filed against our office."

Anderson, in his departure letter, said that he felt his office had implemented several good changes, mostly in automating notification processes, and that he has been unfairly criticized compared to clerks leading other counties.

"I was elected at 19 and every move I have made since the beginning of my tenure has been under a microscope," Anderson wrote. "I do not believe I am incompetent in executing specific statutory duties. I have made mistakes, but I do not believe leaving will prevent these mistakes from occurring."

The Hays County district judges will have the authority to appoint a replacement for the vacancy.

As part of Anderson's removal proceeding, Hernandez, the deputy clerk, was expected to fill the role upon any temporary suspension.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Following a hearing on his potential suspension, Hays County district clerk resigns