In a significant development, Deputy General Counsel Lawsikia Hodges, a long-serving attorney with the City of Jacksonville’s Office of General Counsel (OGC), has tendered her resignation. Action News Jax has obtained her resignation letter, confirming that her last day in office will be Wednesday.

Hodges’ Lengthy Service and Key Responsibilities

During her 17-year tenure with the OGC, Hodges played a pivotal role as the lead counsel for various independent authorities, notably including city-owned utility JEA and the Jacksonville Housing Authority (JHA). Her responsibilities encompassed providing legal guidance during tumultuous periods for both agencies, including the failed sale of JEA and multiple inspector general investigations at JHA.

Recent Developments and Job Transition

Although Hodges was a finalist for the OGC’s top position, she was not appointed. Instead, Michael Fackler was chosen by Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan and later confirmed by the City Council in December. In her resignation letter, Hodges expressed her intention to continue her legal career at the local law firm Smith, Gambrell & Russell.

Assistant General Counsel James Millard Also Departs

Adding to the shake-up within the OGC, Assistant General Counsel James Millard is also set to leave the office. He has accepted a new job offer and will depart on the same day as Hodges, Wednesday.

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Transition within Jacksonville’s Office of General Counsel

The departure of Deputy General Counsel Lawsikia Hodges and Assistant General Counsel James Millard marks a significant transition within the City of Jacksonville’s Office of General Counsel. As new leadership takes the helm, the legal landscape of Jacksonville’s municipal affairs may see further changes in the days to come. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.

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