Yuma City Council votes to censure Council member Art Morales

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The Yuma City Council has formally censured Council member Art Morales following allegations that he shared information discussed during an executive session.

The vote took place during Wednesday's City Council meeting and was approved by every counci lmember except Morales himself.

The censure does not remove Morales from office or affect his ability to vote on city business, but it does limit certain discretionary privileges, including some outside activities representing the City of Yuma. The censure will remain in effect through the end of Morales' term.

During the meeting, Morales denied any wrongdoing and expressed disappointment with the council's decision. Despite the outcome, he said he remains committed to serving the residents who elected him.

"Of course I'm disappointed," Morales said. "But look, the most important thing for me is that I still get to serve the Yuma community. Still get to vote 100% on the dais. Fulfill my term and fulfill my obligation to the residents of Yuma that voted for me or supported me so I'm thankful for that opportunity."

Mayor Doug Nicholls said the decision was rooted in accountability and maintaining public trust in city government.

"We take our responsibilities very, very seriously," Nicholls said. "Particularly in the business of the city. We don't want even an appearance that something is off. So when something comes up, you have to find ways to hold each other accountable."

Morales said he hopes the community remains focused on the city's priorities moving forward rather than the controversy surrounding the censure.

"Let's stay focused on running the city. Let's stay focused on what's important," Morales said. "Because today this is a hot topic, tomorrow it's something else. But the most important thing here is the City of Yuma, the operations, serving the families, first responders and just making sure we do our job that we were voted to do."

City leaders said they hope the matter can now be put behind them as they continue addressing issues facing the community.