JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — James Bennett, a Baker County commissioner and Chief Operating Officer of JAXPORT, was killed Monday morning in a crash on Interstate 10.
The crash happened at about 7:30 a.m. in the area of I-10 headed from Macclenny into Downtown Jacksonville.
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The Florida Highway Patrol said Bennett was driving a sedan when a 16-year-old driving a pick-up truck rear-ended him, causing his car to hit the guardrail.
JAXPORT released a statement on Bennett’s death Monday morning.
“We are deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of our colleague and friend, James Bennett,” a portion of the statement reads. “James dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for people in Northeast Florida, and our entire community is better for his service.”
Bennett was elected to the Baker County District 4 seat in 2014. The district consists of North Baker County including Taylor and Baxter.
Bennett also represented Baker County as a liaison to the Northeast Florida Regional Council, North Florida Regional Transportation Commission, the North Florida Transportation Planning Organization, and the Small County Coalition, according to Baker County’s website.
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Bennett joined JAXPORT in 2017 as Senior Director of Engineering and Construction, responsible for the port’s marine and landside infrastructure development and engineering and construction operations, according to JAXPORT. In that role, he managed the completion of the 47-foot harbor deepening project, a $100 million project, and renovations to improve the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal.
He was promoted to COO of JAXPORT in August 2022. In that role, Bennett oversaw the port’s three operational divisions as well as its engineering and construction department, according to JAXPORT.
Bennett also oversaw the implementation of a capital growth program in excess of $250 million annually. Major projects under his area of responsibility include the expansion of Blount Island’s container and auto-handling capabilities, according to JAXPORT.
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Baker County Sheriff Scotty Rhoden issued the following statement on Bennett’s death:
“For the past nine years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Commissioner James Bennett. He was not only a respected citizen and dedicated public servant, but a man whose faith guided every aspect of his life. His unwavering commitment to the people of Baker County was evident in everything he did, and he always put our community first.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and are praying for his wife, his children, and his entire family during this difficult time. Commissioner Bennett’s legacy of service, integrity, and faith will forever be remembered in Baker County.”
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Baker County’s Board of County Commissioners issued the following statement:
“It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that the Baker County Board of County Commissioners announce the tragic passing of County Commissioner James G. Bennett. Our community has lost a dedicated public servant, a cherished colleague, and a well-respected leader.
“In this time of immense grief, we find comfort in knowing that when James closed his eyes for the last time in his earthly body, he opened them again in heaven, wrapped in the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ.
“Commissioner Bennett’s impact on Baker County was immeasurable. His integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to this community will forever remain a part of our county’s history. We are grateful for his years of service and for the steady sense of responsibility and service he demonstrated throughout his time in office.
“We are in deep, continuous prayer for his beloved wife, Kim, children, Colton and Cloey, and all of his extended family. We ask our community to join us in lifting them up during this heartbreaking time. We pray that his family feels the overwhelming love and support of this community as they walk through this unimaginable loss.
“Commissioner Bennett will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of faith, service, and love for Baker County will endure.
“With prayers,
The Baker County Board of County Commissioners
Ronald Mann, Chairman
Tyler Mobley, Vice-Chairman
Jimmy Anderson, County Commissioner
Mark Hartley, County Commissioner
Sara Little, County Manager
Rich Komando, County Attorney"
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