JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – News4JAX obtained the official resignation letter from the city of Jacksonville’s planning and development director after the mayor’s office asked him to leave the position.
R. Brett James announced his resignation on Friday.
Recommended Videos
“Following up from our discussion earlier today, I’m resigning from the City of Jacksonville effective at the end of the pay period on April 25, 2025. [...] I thank you and many others for the opportunity to serve this wonderful city,” the letter stated.
In an interview, James told News4JAX he was not leaving “with any bitterness.”
He called his time with the city an “amazing opportunity” that ended much sooner than he would have liked.
"Jacksonville as a place is going to experience a tremendous growth over the coming decades, and I just I want it to be done in a way that works well for the people who live here," he said.
He had worked in the position since February 2024 before he was asked to step down.
“It was clear that their preference was in place, and I could either fight it or go out gracefully, and I think it’s best for all that I resign and move on. No hard feelings.”
As for James’s future, he said the options are open.
News4JAX reached out to the city for comment. The city said it does not comment on personnel matters.
An interim planning director will be announced soon, the city said.
