ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – Questions continue to mount around the St. Johns County Airport Authority after allegations surfaced accusing two board members of violating Florida’s Sunshine Law and failing to disclose conflicts of interest.
The Sunshine Law requires public boards to conduct business openly, prohibiting private discussions between members about potential actions.
On Monday, the Northeast Florida Regional Airport hosted a contentious Airport Authority Board meeting as members addressed the accusations publicly for the first time.
Legal Allegations and Law Firm Withdrawal
At the center of the controversy is a letter from the Douglas Law Firm, which alleges that Board Chairman Reba Ludlow and board member Len Tucker engaged in a pattern of Sunshine Law violations and other ethical missteps.
As a result, the firm has decided to withdraw as the airport’s legal counsel.
Board member Jennifer Liotta said the accusations speak for themselves.
“The allegations are what they are,” Board member Jennifer Liotta said. “The letter speaks for itself.”
The firm’s withdrawal has left the board without legal representation, adding further uncertainty to the situation.
Ludlow, however, pushed back against the allegations, saying it is speculation.
“Until there are some charges, we have nothing,” Ludlow said. “Absolutely nothing except rumors.”
Board Divided Over Independent Investigation
One of the key debates at Monday’s meeting was whether to launch an independent investigation into the allegations.
Tucker recused himself from the vote, citing his direct involvement in the accusations. However, Ludlow refused to step aside.
“I am not recusing myself because that’s a rumor,” Ludlow said.
Other board members challenged her stance.
“It is about you, and that makes it a conflict,” Liotta said.
The motion to discuss opening an investigation failed in a 2-2 deadlock..
Legal Questions Continue
Despite the failed vote, the current aviation counsel confirmed that the Douglas Law Firm’s withdrawal letter has been sent to the State Attorney’s Office.
“It would be highly unusual if there were not a criminal investigation,” he said.
With the Airport Authority now without ample legal representation, officials said they will seek interim assistance from the county.
Board member Michelle Cash-Chapman said questions need to be answered.
“It is important that we’re honest and transparent,” she said.
Looking Ahead
As the controversy continues, Interim Executive Director Courtney Pittman emphasized the importance of staying focused on operations.
“In the midst of uncertainty, the mission remains clear,” Pittman said. “We have an airport to run,”
With heightened public attention across the aviation landscape, he acknowledged that the board’s actions are being closely looked at.
“Our stakeholders are watching closely,” Pittman added.
Despite the turmoil, the board did vote 5-0 to begin the search for new legal representation. The deadline to start reaching out for proposals is set for Friday.