(KLZA)-- A first-term Humboldt Council person is the target of a recall effort with mail-in ballots going out to voters this week.

Dolores Martinez has served as a Ward I Council member since 2017. A recall petition was filed April 3 by Jamie Lynne Dorney with 78 valid signatures, forcing the recall election

Dorney, alleges Martinez has not acted in the best interest of the City of Humboldt and has acted unethically toward city employees and other officials and residents during her time in office. During an interview with MSC News, Martinez called the effort unjustified.

Martinez has lived in Humboldt for five years after serving 25 years as a government employee working with the Unites States Air Force.

Earlier this year, it was discovered the finances for the City of Humboldt were is bad shape. Martinez said using her experience in budgeting, she determined there were several serious weaknesses in the way finances were being handled and said she feels the finances have been mishandled. She claims CD and money market certificates were cashed without city council approval or recorded in the council minutes.

Matinez says she would like Ward I voters to vote against the recall effort so she can continue putting processes and procedures in place to help Humboldt become a more positive community.

Pursuant to Nebraska State Statutes, the recall election will be conducted by mail. Humboldt Ward I residents that are registered to vote will receive a ballot and will check yes or no to recall Council member Dolores Martinez.

Ballots must be returned to the Richardson County Clerk's office at the Courthouse in Falls City by July 9.