Commission's hiring procedures questioned

Discussion

December 21, 2005

Delores L. Walker, Free Press Reporter The Suwannee Democrat Wed Dec 21, 2005, 02:49 PM EST

A letter from Taylor County attorney June Byers was read by Lafayette County Commissioner's attorney Conrad Bishop at the County Commissioner's meeting on Dec. 12.

The letter was in reference to Byers' client Wayne McCray's position that his rights were violated (Florida Statute 112.043) by at least two Lafayette County Commissioners when they made reference to his age during his interview for the position of Lafayette County Public Works Director and at a later time at a local place of business. According to Florida Statute, the commisioners cannot discriminate on the basis of age, but must base their hiring decision solely on the job description set forth by the commission.

Byers' letter requested the commissioners reopen the position of public works director and take another look at applicants.

McCray, who asked to speak publicly at Monday's meeting, said he wasn't angry with the commissioners' decision to overlook him for the job but McCray went on to say that he is very concerned with their lack of ethical hiring procedures.

"I think the public should know there were several qualified applicants, other than me, that were overlooked for the job," McCray said. Then, he said although he thought he was wronged in the matter, he would respect the commisioners' final decision.

McCray said he was also concerned about county roads. "They are in pitiful condition, I travel these roads everyday, as do members of my family, as well as neighbors who have all expressed concern to the board about the condition the roads of our county are in. I would like to see the board take the initiative to listen to the people of this county and hopefully do something to correct the situation," said McCray.

After considerable dialogue the commission declined McCray's request with a 3 to 2 vote saying their decision to hire Edward Dodd as public works director stands as is.

County Commissioners are Charles Driver (1st District), Gail Garrard (2nd District), Donnie Hamlin (3rd District), Jack Byrd (4th District), Earnest Jones (5th District).

Free Press Reporter Ira Mikell also contributed to this article.