The vote came during the council's regular meeting, with Councilmember Maggie Murdock Nichols among the two members opposing the termination. Nichols thanked Sawyer for her service and acknowledged her family's sacrifice.

"I just want to thank Madeline Sawyer for her service to the city," Nichols said. "That's all I'll say, but I would be remiss to not thank someone for their service and sacrifice. I appreciate her. I appreciate her family."

Sawyer will receive a severance payment of $46,699.60, according to information provided by the City of Edmond. The council also approved additional transition benefits totaling $70,468.47 and $27,104 for her unused sick leave, bringing the total exit package to more than $144,000.

The reason for Sawyer's termination was not publicly confirmed. Her placement on paid administrative leave in September occurred one month after she dismissed public intoxication charges against Oklahoma Secretary of State Benjamin Lepak. The connection between the dismissal and the disciplinary action has not been established by city officials.

Sawyer was hired as Edmond's city attorney in 2024. The city attorney's office provides legal counsel to the city council, city departments and various boards and commissions, and represents the city in litigation.

The termination raises questions about leadership stability in Edmond's legal department and the council's decision-making process. The 3-2 split vote indicates division among council members over the move, which carries significant financial implications for taxpayers.

City officials have not announced a timeline for hiring a replacement or named an interim city attorney. The council's action Monday finalizes Sawyer's departure after roughly two months of administrative leave.