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Commission to revisit request to indemnify former manager; debate over town paying attorney fees
Summary
Commissioners split over whether Pembroke Park should cover attorney fees for former manager David Lynch. Supporters called for consideration of splitting fees or indemnification; opponents warned it would set a precedent and said taxpayers should not pick up privately incurred legal costs. Town attorney said coverage would be subject to FMIT review and any prior release may affect entitlement.
A contentious exchange at Wednesday’s commission meeting ended with members agreeing to place indemnification and attorney‑fee questions related to the town’s former manager, David Lynch, on the June 10 agenda.
One commissioner said Lynch’s legal fees were substantial and asked the commission to consider splitting the fees or approving indemnification. "He had to defend himself... his attorney reduced the amount from 11,000 down to, I believe it was 7,000 or 7,500," the commissioner said, urging the town to consider assistance.
Mayor Jeffrey Jacobs and others opposed the idea of the town covering those costs, calling it inappropriate to have taxpayers pay fees incurred by an individual who "chose to hire an attorney." Several commissioners warned that paying such fees would set a new precedent for former employees.
Town attorney explained the mechanics: if a lawsuit is filed and the town seeks coverage, the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT) — the insurance defense arm referenced by counsel — would review whether fees, costs or expenses are covered. He also noted an executed release between parties and the insurer’s prior review could affect any entitlement.
Given the disagreement, the commission agreed to add indemnification and the related fee questions to the June 10 agenda for fuller review, including contract language and any executed release documents that may affect the town’s obligations.
