SEBASTIAN — City Attorney Jennifer Cockcroft announced her resignation at a Sebastian City Council meeting last week, effective Oct. 31. She is requesting a shortened notice period to pursue new professional opportunities.
Cockcroft, who has served in the role for nearly two and a half years, informed the council during the Sept. 24 meeting that she had submitted a resignation letter on Sept. 16. Under her contract, she is required to provide 60 days’ notice, but she asked the council to reduce it to 38 days.
“I gave you all a letter on September 16th, letting you know that I’m resigning,” Cockcroft said. “It has everything to do with opportunities that were presented to me. … Thank you for the opportunity to be your city attorney for going on two and a half years now. It’s been a great experience. I’ve enjoyed working with all of you and your manager and your staff.”
Councilman Ed Dodd said the city would need an interim attorney to fill the gap from Oct. 31 until Jan. 1. Cockcroft, who plans to join a private firm, will prepare a proposal outlining the costs for her to serve in that temporary capacity.
Dodd noted that contracting with a firm for a permanent replacement would be significantly more expensive than hiring a full-time, in-house attorney. The council unanimously agreed to prioritize recruiting a single attorney for the position.
City officials did not immediately provide details on the search process or potential candidates, but more information will be available at the next council meeting scheduled for Oct. 8.
