JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — One of Mayor Donna Deegan’s top staffers is stepping down.
The city confirmed Chief Administrative Officer Karen Bowling’s resignation on Wednesday night, saying her employment will end on October 24.
“I’m truly grateful for her many years of service. Karen laid the foundation for our administration,” wrote Mayor Donna Deegan. “She built an incredible team who smoothly transitioned us into office and made significant progress for Jacksonville. We wish her the best now and in the future.”
A clear explanation for the resignation was not provided.
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Despite Bowling on the way out, the Mayor Deegan said she was not immediately searching for a replacement.
“Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Kelli O’Leary will remain in her role and lead executive branch departments with support from Chief of Staff Mike Weinstein. We will evaluate additional Mayor’s Office staff needs after the holidays.”
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The news solicited comments from multiple city council members.
Councilman Jimmy Peluso (D - District 7) said he was incredibly grateful for her service to the city.
Councilman Rory Diamond (R- District 13) posted the following statement to social media, jabbing at the mayor:
“Sorry to hear Karen Bowling is leaving the City. We didn’t agree on much, but she’s literally the only [member of Deegan’s] senior staff with any competence whatsoever. Who is running our city now?”
Councilman Rahman Johnson (D - District 14) provided a long statement regarding the historic significance of her role and how she dealt with recent city challenges.
“Karen Bowling’s leadership came during a time of extraordinary challenge, including the recent budget process that tested the limits of this city’s resolve. Through it all, Karen demonstrated the steadiness and professionalism that has defined her career.
“I have known Karen not only as a friend, but as a colleague whose reputation for excellence preceded her. She was a history maker, the first woman to hold the position of CAO, and she did so with intelligence, sophistication, and a clear command of the issues before her.
“As a former anchor and reporter, I was always struck by the way Karen carried her training as a journalist into public service. She had the rare ability to make complex issues clear, to bring people together around solutions, and to lead with both clarity and conviction. While she is moving on from City Hall, her entrepreneurial spirit and record of achievement ensure that her impact on Jacksonville is far from over. This city is stronger because of her service, and I look forward to seeing the barriers she will continue to break in the future.”
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