JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — City attorney Jason Teal released a statement on Sunday afternoon in response to Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams and his residency controversy.
Read the full statement below:
"I am not answering any questions at this time, but I did want you to know that the City Council president has requested a binding legal opinion from me on this subject. I expect to issue the opinion on or before June 1st."
Jacksonville City Council president Sam Newby responded to the situation as well:
“I had no idea. I was really surprised. I personally think that he should live in Jacksonville."
Newby said he spoke with the Sheriff who believes he is protected by the law changing. Newby is not sure what the next steps are but plans to speak with the city attorney, he said.
First Coast News reached out to the city attorney for an opinion.
"I will be providing it directly to the Council President. Given the interest in the topic, I’m sure he will be posting it to the City distribution list soon thereafter," he said.
First Coast News' Kailey Tracy recently had a one-on-on interview asking Sheriff Williams about not living in the city he's charged with policing.
It's a move that could be a violation of Jacksonville's city charter.