Critics of DCPS decision to hire outside counsel say move is political

The Duval County School Board voted 5-2 on Tuesday to move forward with a resolution that would allow the district to hire its own attorney—separate from Jacksonville’s Office of General Counsel (OCG). Currently, all city agencies, including the school board, must rely on the OGC for legal representation. Supporters of the change believe it could attract better candidates and potentially save the district money. However, some board members and community members worry the move is politically motivated.