Fort White: The Little Town of Fort White Was On the Cusp of Great Things – Then It Went Sideways – Sunshine Law & Other Violations Inspires Councilman to Resign
March 6, 2025 10:30 am | 1 min read
Councilmembers Kathryn Terry and Bill Koon review their
papers before the special meeting was gaveled to order.
Photo: Columbia County Observer
Fort White, FL – The little Town of Fort White was on the cusp of great things – then it went sideways. Sunshine law violations and the threat of a citizen lawsuit hung in the air as the special March 3, 2025, Town Council meeting got underway.
The one minute version
The situation in Fort White, FL, has escalated with significant concerns over the legality and transparency of council appointments, particularly surrounding the appointment of Councilman Dennis Rivera. The March 3, 2025, Town Council meeting became a focal point for these issues, as Councilwoman Kathryn Terry and Councilman Bill Koon challenged the procedural legitimacy of Mr. Rivera’s appointment.
At the heart of the controversy is the claim that the special meeting's purpose was altered unlawfully by Mayor Thomas, who sought to validate Mr. Rivera's position despite opposition from other council members. The meeting saw public outcry regarding the secretive nature of the appointment process, which violated the Sunshine Law that mandates transparency in government proceedings. Residents expressed their frustration, with many feeling that the town’s governance had become an embarrassment.
Mr. Rivera, facing immense pressure and criticism, ultimately chose to resign from his council seat, advocating for a fair electoral process. The town plans to address these concerns in an upcoming meeting scheduled for March 17, where establishing a transparent appointment process will be discussed. The community is left awaiting the next steps in restoring integrity and respect to their local government.