A thorough investigation led by the state attorney for northeast Florida has concluded that there is no evidence of the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) board having violated Florida’s “Sunshine Law” amidst discussions surrounding the resignation and succession of former CEO Jay Stowe.
The investigation was prompted by a complaint filed in May by a JEA employee with the city’s inspector general. This complaint raised concerns about potential breaches of the Sunshine Law, which mandates that public business be conducted in publicly-noticed meetings. However, subsequent findings by the inspector general found no conclusive evidence of violations, leading the investigation to be referred to the State Attorney’s Office for further review.
In a detailed report, the state attorney’s office stated that the allegations of Sunshine Law violations were unwarranted and unfounded. The report clarified that any outside conversations among board members did not pertain to JEA board business or were not subjected to the Sunshine Law provisions. Furthermore, the report asserted that decisions made during public meetings, such as the appointment of Vickie Cavey as interim and later permanent CEO, safeguarded against any perceived violations.
Vickie Cavey, responding to the state attorney’s findings, expressed gratitude for the thorough investigation. “JEA appreciates the thorough investigation by the State Attorney’s Office,” Cavey remarked. She emphasized the board’s commitment to complying with the Sunshine Law and noted that the report vindicated the board from the baseless allegations that had overshadowed their work.
Board Chair Joseph DiSalvo also welcomed the report’s conclusions, praising the state attorney’s diligent work. DiSalvo reiterated the board’s dedication to transparency and ethical conduct, underscoring their adherence to Sunshine Law obligations. “On behalf of the board of directors, we appreciate the diligent work of the State Attorney’s Office,” he stated, highlighting the board’s unwavering commitment to maintaining transparency and ethical integrity.
The clearing of the JEA board from allegations of Sunshine Law violations underscores the board’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations. The investigation not only reaffirms the board’s adherence to legal obligations but also strengthens its relationship with the Northeast Florida community.
Source: News4jax
