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Board confirms deputy Justin Hazelleaf as public safety director; chair abstains
Summary
The board confirmed Deputy Public Safety Director Justin Hazelleaf as Public Safety Director effective March 7, 2026; the county attorney advised the chair to abstain because Hazelleaf is the chair’s son, and the confirmation passed by voice vote with the chair abstaining.
The Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners confirmed Deputy Public Safety Director Justin Hazelleaf as Public Safety Director effective March 7, 2026, following the resignation of Earl Wooten.
Staff told the board the county administrator selected Hazelleaf and recommended confirmation per statute. During the item the county attorney noted Hazelleaf is the son of the chair and recommended the chair abstain from the confirmation vote to avoid a potential conflict of interest. The chair did abstain, and the board moved and seconded the confirmation; the motion carried with the chair abstaining.
Hazelleaf thanked the board and recognized Chief Wooten as his mentor. Commissioners expressed appreciation for Wooten’s long service and welcomed Hazeleaf’s leadership going forward.
Why it matters: The confirmation ensures continuity of leadership in the county’s consolidated public‑safety operations. The attorney’s recommendation and the chair’s abstention reflect attention to conflict‑of‑interest considerations in appointments.
What’s next: Hazelleaf is scheduled to assume the role on 03/07/2026; staff will complete administrative onboarding and public‑safety transition tasks.
Provenance: topicintro SEG 444; topfinish SEG 521
