County Commission vs Attorney Continues
Jackson County, Fla.- A routine Jackson County Board of County Commissioners meeting grew tense when County Attorney Michelle Jordan attempted to present a memorandum outlining recommendations for outside investigations into what she described as “serious misconduct allegations and civil rights violations” involving Chairman Jamey Westbrook and County Administrator Jim Dean. Jordan said the memo called for both FDLE and Ethics Commission reviews, as well as consideration of appointing an interim county administrator while investigations were pending.
Jordan began speaking from the podium, explaining that the purpose of the document was “to advise the board regarding multiple serious complaints lodged by county staff.” Before she could continue, Administrator Jim Dean interrupted, referencing guidance from the attorney provided to the county through the Florida Association of Counties. Dean told the board that this attorney had emailed Jordan “indicating to her, telling her, that she is not to discuss any aspect of the potential case associated with this matter, with this commission, without her presence.”
Jordan asked to proceed, but Chairman Westbrook paused the discussion while acknowledging Dean’s concern. Dean reiterated that “our attorney indicated that she wanted to be present anytime any aspect of this case was discussed,” and emphasized that moving ahead would go “against the will of our attorney that represents us.”
When Jordan again said, “I proceed, thank you,” Westbrook responded that he was “not sure that it's legal” for her to continue but told her, “if you take the chance of it, you go ahead.” Jordan resumed reading briefly before Commissioner Edward Crutchfield suggested that the board instead schedule a meeting where both attorneys could be present. Dean agreed, calling that his recommendation “if it has anything to do with any aspect of the potential lawsuit that our attorney has filed against Jackson County.” Jordan responded, “I haven't filed a lawsuit against Jackson County.”
Crutchfield then made a motion to postpone Jordan’s presentation until a joint meeting could be held with both attorneys present. Commissioner Donnie Branch seconded. The motion passed 3–1, with Commissioner Dr. Willie Spires opposed and Commissioner Paul Donofro absent.
The meeting concluded without the memorandum being read into the record, and with the board set to revisit the matter once legal counsel from both sides can be present.
