JEA CEO Vickie Cavey resigns

JEA CEO Vickie Cavey has resigned from the city-owned utility, Action News Jax’s Ben Becker has learned.

Becker obtained a copy of Cavey’s resignation letter, which was sent to JEA Board Chair MG Orender.

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It says, in part, “It is with a heavy heart that I am submitting my resignation.”

It goes on to say that she is retiring effective Sept. 25.

JEA tells Becker that there will be a special meeting to determine next steps, but in the meantime, Jody Brooks remains interim CEO/Managing Director.

Of Cavey, JEA said, in part, “JEA is grateful for her leadership, dedication, and the many contributions she has made throughout her remarkable career with the organization.”

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Cavey has been on medical leave since late July. It followed a Jacksonville City Council investigation into accusations of a toxic work culture and racism at the utility.

An employee survey came back two weeks ago, which did not support those claims, although it did find she was difficult to work with. The board wanted her to undergo executive counseling.

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City Councilman Rory Diamond was among the first city leaders to react to the news, posting the following message on X:

“I hear new leadership is in store for @NewsfromJEA. Wish Ms. Cavey well in the future. JEA is a critical service for our residents, and I hope future leadership will do everything they can to stabilize or reduce rates.”

This is a developing story. Watch FOX30 at 4 for the latest updates.

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