I am grateful to the voters of Okeechobee for electing me as the new Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller beginning in January and I look forward to working with the fine staff of that Office, many of whom I was fortunate to work with for 12 years as County Judge.

However, the ludicrous claim continues to be circulated within the office that I intend to “fire everyone” when I take office. Those words have NEVER come from my mouth, nor has such a thought entered my mind. That claim is an absolute lie and should be ignored. No reasonable person would even consider such a decision. I need you on the job. NO ONE IS BEING FIRED!

When you hear it, ask yourself if the person spreading it has your interest in mind or some personal vendetta left from the campaign. Is their motive to undermine the newly elected clerk? Is that person leaving the office anyway and would not be impacted by the stress they are seeking to create?

It is beyond cruel for someone to cause their co-workers to believe they are about to lose their jobs, salary, and benefits immediately before the holiday season. That behavior identifies them for what they are, but not me. Those of you who worked with me know that I am not that type of person. For ten years I personally delivered small Christmas gifts to each clerk’s employee because I appreciated you. To have you believe differently now is disappointing.

If any employee wishes to discuss their employment status with me privately, call me at 863-634-2557.

Jerry Bryant