Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony announced Monday that he is suspending all discretionary budget negotiations with Broward County while a state investigation involving county commissioners and other county officials remains active.
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In a statement, Tony said the decision is intended to protect the integrity of the budget process and avoid questions about whether ongoing discussions could be influenced by the investigation.
The state probe became public last month after subpoenas were served on all nine Broward County commissioners, as well as several senior county officials. Public reporting has linked the investigation to Broward County’s review of whether the Broward Sheriff’s Office should continue providing law enforcement services at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades.
Despite the suspension of discretionary negotiations, Tony said BSO will continue to meet its legal budget obligations and maintain public safety services throughout the county.
The announcement comes as tensions between the sheriff and county leaders have continued to escalate.
Last week, several commissioners criticized Tony for skipping a county budget workshop. During that meeting, Commissioner Michael Udine called the sheriff’s absence disrespectful.
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“It’s disrespectful to the public not to be able to come, and to post ridiculous videos talking about Proterra buses when we’re talking about paying sheriff’s deputies or helicopter issues or real issues,” Udine said.
Tony said pausing negotiations is necessary until the state investigation is resolved.
Meanwhile, Broward County Mayor Beam Furr has responded to NBC6’s request for comment and has agreed to sit down for an interview Tuesday.
NBC6 will also be covering Tuesday’s Broward County Commission meeting, where commissioners could publicly address the sheriff’s decision
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