An attempt to oust Marshall Commissioner Ed Smith from his post as commission chairman recently failed, according to Smith and Commissioner Bryan Partee.

Partee said that Commissioner John Wilborn told him that he was ready for a new chairman. Partee said that to avoid embarrassing Smith, he had coffee with Smith the day before Thanksgiving and told him that the votes were against him.

Wilborn said Wednesday he "doesn't recall saying anything about that" and refused to comment further.

Partee said Smith said he was involved with numerous projects, and with his oil and gas exploration company, was considering stepping down from his position, regardless.