Sarasota commissioners unanimously back County Administrator Jonathan Lewis amid social media criticism

The Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners on March 11 voted unanimously to express confidence and support for County Administrator Jonathan Lewis, responding to recent social-media posts that some commissioners said contained inaccuracies.

Commissioner Cuttsinger moved the measure, which Commissioner Mast seconded. After extended remarks from multiple commissioners highlighting Lewis’s leadership during Hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton, and the county’s AAA bond rating and awards for various departments, the board called the question and passed the motion by voice vote.

The motion was prompted, Commissioner Cuttsinger said, by “recent articles in social media that, some of which contain inaccuracies.” In a lengthy statement he praised Lewis’s leadership through storm response and recovery and said, “He’s a man of complete integrity and honor.” Commissioner Mast, who seconded the motion, highlighted the county’s service culture and said Lewis “has built a team that I am so honored to serve with.”

Other commissioners who spoke in support included Commissioner Smith and Commissioner Knight; each described professional experience working with Lewis and cited regional and national recognition of his leadership. The board did not adopt any disciplinary measures or set any new staff direction as part of the vote; the motion was a formal expression of the board’s confidence.

The unanimous vote (aye from all five commissioners present) closed a discussion on the dais before the meeting proceeded to the public-comment and consent sections.

The board’s resolution of confidence was limited to the expression recorded on the dais; no additional authority or employment action was authorized by the motion.