Martinsville Mayor LC Jones and former City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides have filed lawsuits against a city council member, the city’s law firm and, in Ferrell-Benavides’ case, the city itself, marking the latest chapter in a months-long controversy that has divided city leadership.

Martinsville city leaders are weighing tax increases and budget cuts to address a nearly $4 million deficit, as the city also delays the release of a workplace investigation into a former city manager.

A judge has ordered that Martinsville Mayor L.C. Jones be reinstated to the city council.

A show-cause notice issued Wednesday morning has led to the temporary suspension of Martinsville Mayor L.C. Jones from the City Council, marking the latest step in an ongoing effort to remove him from office.

Tensions escalated in Martinsville’s city government as Mayor L.C. Jones seeks an emergency protective order against City Councilman Aaron Rawls, following a confrontation at last week’s city council meeting.

A group of Martinsville residents have initiated a recall effort against Mayor L.C. Jones, citing concerns over transparency in the investigation of former City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides.