Posted on 01/08/2010 10:11:48 AM PST by abb
Under scrutiny and criticism of business dealings of his former top executive and his own interests, Jefferson Parish President Aaron Broussard announced his resignation this morning.
Broussard's resignation came as several members of his staff were set to appear before a federal grand jury in New Orleans this morning in the wake of a criminal investigation into former Chief Administrative Officer Tim Whitmer's personal business dealings with parish contractors.
Councilman John Young said that under the Parish Charter, the council has 30 days both to name an interim parish president and to set a special election to fill out Broussard's term, which expires in January, 2012. It was not immediately clear who will take over the duties of parish president until the council makes that decision. But whoever is appointed interim parish president cannot run in the special election, Young said.
Reaction to the news included surprise from even close friends of Broussard.
Charlotte Burnell, who served as Broussard's chief administrative officer for much of his 8 years as mayor of Kenner, said Thursday she saw Broussard just a few days ago. "I am as surprised as anyone else," she said.
But Burnell said it wasn't unusual for Broussard to make a difficult decision quickly and decisively.
"The decision, I'm sure, was based on what he things is best for the parish."
Broussard's top lieutenants and some Parish Council members were gathering at the Yenni Building in Elmwood and an official announcement was expected later in the day.
(Excerpt) Read more at nola.com ...
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http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2010/01/highlight_lowlights_of_aaron_b.html
Aaron Broussard’s long career in Jefferson Parish poiltics
http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2010/01/jefferson_parish_officials_giv.html
Jefferson Parish officials give feds documents on landfill deal linked to Tim Whitmer probe
http://www.wwltv.com/news/JP-documents-delivered-to-federal-grand-jury-81002637.html
Sources: Aaron Broussard is expected to resign
“Charlotte Burnell, who served as Broussard’s chief administrative officer for much of his 8 years as mayor of Kenner, said Thursday she saw Broussard just a few days ago. “I am as surprised as anyone else,” she said.”
Broussard to Burnell:
“Hush, hush, Sweet Charlotte!”
http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2010/01/video_jefferson_parish_acting.html
Video: Jefferson Parish CAO reacts to Aaron Broussard resignation
http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2010/01/see_photo_gallery_of_aaron_bro.html
See photo gallery of Aaron Broussard throughout career
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