The city manager of Dayton, Texas, was placed on leave because of a short video

DAYTON, Texas – The small Texas town of Dayton is in the middle of a major controversy over a short video clip making the rounds on social media.

City Manager Kimberly Judge's job is on the line because of the one-second clip in which she appears to be “dancing and having fun with a group of close friends,” according to the public relations firm that represents her.

A city council meeting was held Monday evening to discuss her fate. Emotions ran high as many said they did not understand why the meeting was called in the first place.

“It really and truly is a scapegoat,” Rhonda Johnson said.

In the end, the City Council voted to place the judge on administrative leave while an investigation into the time, location and content of the video takes place.

“It was insinuated that it was a trip to a city event, but again, there is no context in the video,” said Sherial Alwson, a Dayton resident and former city council member. “She has fulfilled her obligations in her office. We have to let them do their job.”

The decision was not well received in the city's chambers. Several people who spoke out in support of Judge had already seen the video.

“The video has no context. From the video you can’t tell where it was filmed,” Alwson said.

Others downplayed the video, saying what was in it wasn't all that bad.

“If that's the biggest skeleton in her closet, then we're all screwed,” Courtney Wheeler said.

Adam Spear was on the other side of the fence.

“The main issue I had was … it was a trip paid for by the city,” Spear said. “Leaders don’t take tax dollars and then act like fools while representing the city.”

After the final decision was made, KHOU 11 News reporter Amanda Henderson attempted to speak with council members, but they said they were advised by their legal team not to speak at this time.

Here is a statement from the judge's representatives:

“We are compelled to respond to the recent actions of a despised group of individuals who have reached new lows by posting a video of our beloved city manager, mother, grandmother and personal client, Kimberly Judge, on a Facebook page created under the name Brad Norwell. This video of Kimberly dancing and having fun with a group of close friends is a blatant attempt to undermine her reputation and undermine the public's confidence in her ability to continue to lead the city of Dayton toward a better future and the position of the To strengthen the city as a “beacon on the hill”.

“Kimberly has always demonstrated dignity, respect and unwavering commitment to the city of Dayton. Her track record is a testament to her professionalism and the positive impact she has had on our local community. Under her leadership, Dayton has experienced significant public improvements.” Services, community engagement and economic development have led to downtown revitalization and increased support of local businesses, making Dayton a better place to live and work.

“We urge the public to see through this pathetic attempt to discredit a woman who has been a true asset to our city. In addition to being a dedicated city manager, Kimberly is a mother, an excellent colleague, and a person with strong Christian faith who believes in forgiveness and understanding. It is unfortunate that someone chose to release a 3 year old video of Kimberly being human and having fun on her PERSONAL TIME to create a false narrative to gain clicks and views at the expense of her integrity .

“The community stands firmly behind Ms. Judge and condemns this cowardly attack on her character. We will not be influenced by the unfounded actions of sycophants who are conducting a petty smear campaign against Kimberly. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.”