County Commission Moves Ahead With Legal Services Contract

Jackson County, Fla. - The Jackson County Commission at their regular monthly meeting approved changes to the committee tasked with ranking applicants for the county’s legal services, following the withdrawal of two original members.

County Administrator Jim Dean informed commissioners that Mark Sims and Kim Applewhite would be removed from the ranking committee. In their place, Judge Woodrow Hatcher will join the panel.

Commissioner Paul Donofro outlined the updated roster, which now includes Judge Hatcher, Mr. Bondurant, Herman Laramore, and Donnie Branch.

During discussion, Commissioner Dr. Willie Spires questioned why the original members were being replaced. Dean explained that Mr. Sims, who serves as a public defender, might face conflicts of interest in certain cases handled by his office. Out of caution, staff recommended his removal. Ms. Applewhite, meanwhile, declined to serve.

Dean emphasized that the committee’s role is limited to ranking proposals and does not carry any decision-making authority. “This is only a ranking committee,” he said. “There is no decision-making power associated with ranking.”

Commissioner Donofro made a motion to approve the revised committee lineup as listed in the agenda packet, and Commissioner Donnie Branch seconded the motion. The board approved the change in a 3-2 vote, with Commissioners Edward Crutchfield and Dr. Spires voting against it.