BRADENTON BEACH — The Bradenton Beach City Commission voted 3-2 Tuesday morning to postpone a decision on opening an investigation and hearing that would have the potential to remove the island city's Mayor, Bill Shearon.

Mayor Shearon

Mayor Shearon refused to recuse himself and was joined by Commissioner Janie Robertson in opposing the delay. Commissioner Ed Straight made the motion to delay and was joined by Vice Mayor Jack Clarke and Commissioner Jan Vosburgh in the majority.

No future date for addressing the issue has been set.

Vice Mayor Jack Clarke has been the most vocal proponent for eight-sixing Shearon, alleging financial mismanagement and low employee morale.

Local government attorney Ralf Brookes, who represents Shearon has argued that the charges are vague and do not meet the threshold in the City Charter for removing the mayor from office. Brookes has also pointed out that since Clarke will become mayor if Shearon is suspended, there is a potential conflict of interest.

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Political Fate of Bradenton Beach Mayor in Question at Today's City Commission Meeting