Governor suspends Manuel
Crist does not plan to name replacement now
By PETER GUINTA
peter.guinta@staugustine.com
Publication Date: 10/18/08
On Friday, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist suspended former St. Johns County Commission Chairman Tom Manuel from office after learning that Manuel was indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of bribery Thursday.
Since the alleged crimes are felonies, Crist issued Executive Order No. 08-214, which said, "It is in the best interest of the residents of St. Johns County and the state of Florida that Thomas Manuel be immediately be suspended from the public office which he now holds...."
Manuel remains free on $50,000 bond with a trial tentatively scheduled for December.
Earlier Friday, Manuel had voluntarily sought a leave of absence for health reasons.
Under county regulations, he would not have collected a pay check, but would have been covered for 12 weeks by the county's health plan.
With his suspension, however, Manuel won't be eligible for the health benefits.
Sterling Ivey, spokesman for Crist, said Friday evening that Manuel will not immediately be replaced.
"That suspension does not lead to a vacancy in the office," Ivey said. "Typically, there's a suspension until we gather more facts and then have the case heard in court. We will not be appointing anyone to fill that seat right now."
Asked if anyone in particular is being considered, Ivey said there's no candidate list,
"People are calling the office to say they are interested," he said.
Commissioner-elect Mark Miner issued a prepared statement Friday that said, "This is a sad day for the people of St. Johns County. Now more than ever it is imperative that the new Board of Commissioners and the county staff unite and work diligently to re-establish the trust of the citizens of St. Johns County. While the alleged actions of Commission Chairman Tom Manuel are regrettable and inexcusable, my thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time,"
County Administrator Michael Wanchick said the suspension order "prohibits Mr. Manuel from performing any official act, duty or function of public office and from receiving any pay, benefits or privileges of public office during the period of suspension."
The suspension period will end when a further Executive Order is issued, he said.
But Wanchick assured county residents that, "The county remains committed to serving the needs of (both) residents and businesses."
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