The Director of the Leon County Consolidated Dispatch Agency is resigning. Tim Lee’s decision to step down comes after a conversation with Leon County Sheriff Mike Wood.
Tuesday, Lee sent his letter of resignation to the CDA Board members Wood, Leon County Administrator Vince Long and new Tallahassee City Manager Rick Fernandez. In that letter Lee acknowledges “challenges” at the agency but says he’s confident it can recover.
Since opening two years ago the CDA has experienced numerous technical failures that have played a role in some high-profile incidents. The agency’s threat-alert system wasn’t activated which could have saved the life of former Sheriff’s Deputy Chris Smith when he responded to a house fire that turned into an ambush. The threat alert software updates still aren’t done.
Slow response times to the high profile shooting and murder of Florida State University Professor Dan Markel and shooting at FSU’s Strozier Library also raised flags
The agency has had problems keeping qualified operators on staff, and employee morale is low. The CDA’s board has also considered fining tech operator Motorola and dropping its services after a March audit revealed dozens of system outtages. Lee’s last day is February 3rd. The CDA board meets Thursday.
Tim Lee's Resignation Letter:
Dear CDA Board Members:
It is with regret that I resign my position as Director of the Consolidated Dispatch Agency effective February 3rd, 2016. It has been my honor to serve as the director of the Consolidated Dispatch Agency for the last two years. Although the agency has experienced some challenges over the last two years I am confident that CDA will recover and go on to be stronger than ever before.
While serving as the director I had the opportunity to see great things accomplished within the agency, unfortunately the highs came with a variety of lows. I feel honored to consider each member of the CDA family as part of my family. I will do everything in my power during my remaining days at CDA to complete unfinished tasks and promote the family aspect of public safety. With my departure I assure you that I will assist to the best of my abilities the transition to a new director for the agency.
The management of the CDA is exceedingly fortunate to have the kind of dedicated staff that I have come to know and respect during my years with the agency. The staff is committed to excellence and are fiercely loyal to the agency. Thank you again for an educational and highly rewarding two years at the CDA.
Sincerely,
Timothy Lee
