After a tense meeting Thursday night, Jacksonville City Council President Tommy Hazouri is coming under fire from some of his fellow councilmembers.
In a heated Committee of the Whole meeting on Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan’s proposed Lot J development, members debated two proposals that would bring the Downtown Investment Authority into the process, which led to a sharp exchange between Hazouri and Councilman Aaron Bowman.
Related: Council President Criticizes Mayoral Administration’s Handling Of Lot J Project
“You are unprepared for this job,” Bowman said, obviously frustrated with how the meeting was going.
“Well, you’re welcome,” Hazouri replied sarcastically. “I’m sorry that you’re still not the president.”
After Thursday’s unproductive meeting, Councilman Rory Diamond Tweeted that Bowman had captured “the sentiment of the entire Council.”
Aaron Bowman captures the sentiment of the entire Council. Tommy Hazouri has no business leading this Council. It’s embarrassing. Epitome of corruption and incompetence. https://t.co/ys0227AUcN
— Rory Diamond (@RoryDiamond) November 20, 2020
He even seemed to suggest removing Hazouri as President in a response to another tweet.
Remove the chair.
— Rory Diamond (@RoryDiamond) November 20, 2020
Meanwhile, prominent Democrats in the city have been quick to come to Hazouri’s defense.
It would be wise for my friends on the City Council to review their own rules. Especially CR4.502 and CR4.504. #jaxpol
— Jimmy Midyette (@JimmyMidyette) November 20, 2020
President Hazouri should be commended for his handling of a rowdy and unruly meeting. He showed great restraint - God knows I'd have had Brian Hughes removed. https://t.co/D46bhbxOSy
Brendan Rivers can be reached at brivers@wjct.org, 904-358-6396 or on Twitter at @BrendanRivers.
