JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A Jacksonville City Council investigative committee is expanding its review of allegations of a toxic work environment and racism at JEA, the city-owned utility.
On Monday, the utility’s chief human resources officer, Diane Moser, faced questions from council members about workplace culture and how employee complaints are handled.
The controversy surrounding JEA intensified after Kevin Carrico, the council president, attempted to appoint his boss to the JEA board. Carrico later called for the formation of the special investigative committee.
During the hearing, council members Ron Salem, Ju’Coby Pittman and Rory Diamond questioned Moser about several issues, including the departure of former JEA Chief of Staff Kurt Wilson and the utility’s use of outside communications firms during periods of public scrutiny.
Council members also pressed for details on how employee concerns are documented and escalated, focusing on internal surveys, reporting chains and who has access to complaint records. Some expressed concern that employees may be reluctant to speak openly.
Pittman said she has heard from multiple workers and raised the possibility that some could come forward publicly if protections are in place.
“I’ve talked to them,” Pittman said. “I want to hear it from the horse’s mouth. If we can make sure they are protected. They’re afraid that if they come, they will be punished. It’s already toxic in some departments. It would not be a good look.”
Moser told the committee she was not aware of any complaints specifically involving JEA CEO Vickie Cavey.
The committee plans to seek interviews with Cavey and former JEA Chief of Staff Regina Ross at its next meeting, scheduled in two weeks.