An investigation into alleged use of foul language by Fort Lauderdale Commissioners will cost taxpayers at least $25,000 in legal fees. Two weeks ago, Commissioner Warren Sturman (D-Whiny) accused fellow Commissioner Steve Glassman of directing foul language towards his commission aide. Petulant Commissioner John Herbst made the remarks on the public record. “Fuck you. Fuck your boss,” Herbst said.
Instead of handling the matter like grownups, Sturman and his lobbyist allies decided to make it bigger, and more costly deal. City Attorney Tom Ansbro told the Sun-Sentinel he received an email from Barbra Stern, the daughter of lobbyist and Sturman ally Judy Stern.
“I asked them to conduct an investigation into his conduct and any potential violations of any anti-harassment and anti-bullying policies,” Barbra Stern told the Sun-Sentinel. “What kind of message does this send when your elected public official engages in intimidating and threatening behavior toward a city employee?”
Tonight, Ansbro is presenting the Commission with options to investigate the matter.
To avoid any “potential bias or prejudice,” Ansbro believes outside counsel needs to conduct the investigation. He will offer up two possible lawyers to investigate the matter—Ria Chattergoon and Michael Elkins.
No matter the choice, the winning attorney will receive $25,000 from Fort Lauderdale taxpayers.
Even the most naive and optimistic resident knows $25,000 will not be the final price tag.
When government is footing the bill, the budget always grows.
One of these lawyers will conduct the investigation. But what about legal representation for the individual commissioners? Who pays their legal bills?
What is the possible outcome? An apology? A sternly worded letter?
Why should taxpayers pay the bills in this bit of pointless political theater?
