Jacksonville pols guarded when talking Councilmembers’ indictments

Former Jacksonville City Council members Katrina Brown and Reggie Brown.

The big news from Jacksonville Thursday: the indictment of Councilmembers Katrina Brown and Reggie Brown on charges related to a conspiracy to defraud.

Prosecutors assert that the Browns secreted government money, lent and granted to Katrina Brown for a barbeque sauce plant that was supposed to create 56 jobs — but created none.

For those expecting hot takes from Jacksonville politicians, no dice: a heaping bowl of  luke-warm disappointment was served up.

Measured takes abounded from all corners.

Mayor Lenny Curry, who didn’t have to deal with media after the indictment dropped, issued a brief statement: “It is a disappointing day for the city of Jacksonville. Any time public servants are accused of violating public trust, we are all impacted. While these allegations are concerning, I have complete confidence in our judicial system and respect the process all citizens are afforded.”

Council President-designate Aaron Bowman was “shocked,” given that his impression of Council is one where “trust and honesty are key.”

Bowman asserted that “the law will figure out what happened.”

Regarding the economic development deal that catalyzed the sequence of events, Bowman — a Vice President with Chamber business recruitment arm JAXUSA — said that there are safeguards to ensure that nothing like this happens again.

Current Council President Anna Brosche, who appointed the Browns to the Finance Committee this year as a quid pro quo for votes in her race for the top job, called the episode a sad day for the community.

“Council Members Katrina Brown and Reggie Brown have served their districts with passion, and
it is now time for them to focus on the legal process which they are now entering.” Brosche said, in what would not be interpreted as discouragement from resigning.

Political opponents for each Brown were muted in response Thursday.

Sen. Audrey Gibson, all but assured of not facing a primary challenge from Reggie Brown, asserted: “I have not made any comments about the opponent in the race and I have none today. I continue to do my legislative duties, work to get more Senate Dems elected as Leader-designate, and focus on my re-election campaign.”

Albert Wilcox, running against Katrina Brown in District 8: “I am truly saddened by the recent announcement of two of our public officials being indicted. My thoughts and prayers go out to both  Katrina and Reginald as they seek a positive resolution to their current problems.  We must be reminded that when things of this nature and magnitude happen it effects more than the person involved but their families too. In that regard, I pray for each families strength to stand through this test and remain positive. This too will pass.”

Per the indictment, it may pass after many years in prison.

Another opponent, Diallo-Sekou Seabrooks, called for Katrina Brown to resign: “”Its never a good day when elected officials are brought up on charges.   It is the right of American citizens to have due process.  It is the right of the public to hold officials accountable.  The NW quadrant constituents deserve better. The frequency of leadership falling short is too often.  I’m asking for Katrina Brown’s resignation so that she can focus on the ongoing legal issues,” Seabrooks said.

Ultimately, all political watchers are waiting to see what Gov. Rick Scott does. He can remove the Council members from office and, if done timely, voters will have a chance to pick new officiants in the August and Novembers elections.

Alternatively, he could appoint new Councilmembers.