e|agenda.NET Sarasota County Schools

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA Landings Administrative Complex 1980 Landings Blvd. 6:30 P. M.

January 5, 2010 Board Meeting Agenda Item #10 Title REIMBURSEMENT OF ATTORNEYS' FEES Description Section 1012.26, Florida Statutes, provides in relevant part "The district school board shall provide for reimbursement of reasonable expenses for legal services for officers and employees of school boards who are charged with civil or criminal actions arising out of and in the course of the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities upon successful defense by the employee or officer." (emphasis added)  As a jury found Mr. Billa not guilty of the criminal offenses of which he was charged, and as those offenses arose directly out of his duties as a School Board employee, Florida law requires reimbursement of reasonable legal expenses. Recommendation That the School Board, pursuant to Section 1012.26, Florida Statutes, authorize reimbursement in the amount of $6,500.00 to Charles Billa for legal expenses he incurred in successfully defending a criminal action instituted against him for actions arising out of the performance of his assigned duties. Contact HARDY Financial Impact N/A