In St. Johns County, the winds of change have brought about significant reform in response to an oversight in government procedures. Back in May 2023, an issue arose regarding the relocation of excess fill dirt from a local project to the Police Athletic League (PAL) fields without following required procurement protocols. This incident occurred under the watch of former County Administrator Hunter Conrad and was later exposed, leading to various reforms under the new administration.
It was in July 2023, post Conrad's resignation and Joy Andrews' subsequent appointment as the Interim County Administrator, that the matter was brought to light and reported to the Office of Inspector General (OIG). Joy Andrews, who is now the permanent County Administrator, has since introduced a series of reforms aimed at tightening the county's oversight and transparency. As reported by St. Johns County, the OIG affirmed the necessity and impact of these changes.
Andrews' administration has spearheaded the creation of the Infrastructure Delivery Team, which synergizes eight County departments along with the School District and Sheriff’s Office for better capital project delivery. Additionally, a new Capital Improvement Project Oversight Committee has been established, featuring senior department leaders to promote cross-departmental accountability and structured reporting. Each type of project, be it vertical, horizontal, or utilities, now falls under specific departmental oversight to streamline processes and reinforce cost control.
Furthermore, Andrews has bolstered internal controls and reporting structures to introduce greater checks and balances throughout the departments. In an effort to prevent future incidents like the one involving the fill dirt, employee training on procurement, administrative requirements, and conflict-of-interest has also been enhanced. Despite the PAL athletic fields being a Board of County Commissioners-approved public benefit project, Andrews pointed out that the prior deviation from protocol highlighted the critical need for the reforms her administration has implemented.
"Our job is to protect public trust and ensure proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars," Andrews emphasized in statements obtained from the St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s website.
