By Ray King
Testimony in a lawsuit contending that Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson and most members of the Jefferson County Quorum Court violated the state Freedom of Information Act lasted the entire morning Friday in Jefferson County Circuit Court but the judge hearing the case will rule later.
Special Judge Bentley Story, who was appointed to hear the case after all the judges in Jefferson County withdrew, citing a conflict of interest, told attorneys for both sides to prepare writing closing arguments and he would rule on the case after receiving them.
Robinson and the Quorum Court were sued by attorney Kimberly Dale, who represents Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr., in another case regarding financing for the sheriff’s department and particularly the juvenile detention center.
Testimony at the hearing indicated that Dale filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for documents on budget proceedings in September 2021, including test messages, memorandums, and other material. That request went to Robinson, all 13 members of the Quorum Court, and to other elected officials, including the County Clerk.
According to Dale’s testimony, she received a response from Robinson on Dec. 20, directing her to the county clerk but that response was well after the three days stipulated under FOIA. Of the 13 members of the Quorum Court, only Justice of the Peace Conley Byrd responded.
Dale set a follow-up request on Dec. 21 asking for clarifications on the initial response, then a second follow on Jan. 12.
Attorney Tim Cullen represented Dale during the hearing and was asked about the county’s responses.
When he testified, Jefferson County Judge Gerald Robinson said he had received the FOIA request and had directed Dale to the4 Jefferson County website where he said the documents she requested could be found, including meeting dales for committee and regular meetings. Robi9nson also said some of the delays in responding to Dale occurred because the courthouse was closed for several weeks in January due to an outbreak of COVID.
Attorney Burt Newell represented Robinson and the Quorum Court and said this after the hearing.
