Leon County Commissioners narrowly voted to approve a severance package for the Tourist Development Council Executive Director if he resigns.
After a heated debate Tuesday night (10/14/08), commissioners voted four to three to approve a severance package for Guy Thompson that will equal a little more than 75-thousand dollars.
The package includes six months pay - which amounts to about 45 thousand dollars - and half the contribution toward 18 months of health care premiums.
The Tourist Development Board called for Thompson's resignation in late September and several commissioners have publicly voiced dissatisfaction with his work.
"It kind of flies in the face of common sense that not only do we give severance for somebody who doesn't deserve it, but they haven't even formally resigned. But again, four votes - you can rule the table," says Bryan Desloge, one of three commissioners who voted against the severance package. John Dailey and Bob Rackleff also voted against the severance pay.
"We felt that our board, the majority, that this would be in the best interest of both dignity, statesmanship and a salute to what he's done in giving the last several years to the county," says Bill Proctor, one of the four commissioners who voted in favor of the severance package. Jane Sauls, Ed Depuy and Cliff Thaell joined Proctor to pass measure.
Thompson has not resigned yet, but his attorney says that he will be submitting a letter of resignation.