JEA CEO Vickie Cavey has resigned from the city-owned utility, Action News Jax’s Ben Becker has learned.
Becker obtained a copy of Cavey’s resignation letter, which was sent to JEA Board Chair MG Orender.
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It says, in part, “It is with a heavy heart that I am submitting my resignation.”
It goes on to say that she is retiring effective Sept. 25.
JEA tells Becker that there will be a special meeting to determine next steps, but in the meantime, Jody Brooks remains interim CEO/Managing Director.
Of Cavey, JEA said, in part, “JEA is grateful for her leadership, dedication, and the many contributions she has made throughout her remarkable career with the organization.”
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Cavey has been on medical leave since late July. It followed a Jacksonville City Council investigation into accusations of a toxic work culture and racism at the utility.
An employee survey came back two weeks ago, which did not support those claims, although it did find she was difficult to work with. The board wanted her to undergo executive counseling.
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City Councilman Rory Diamond was among the first city leaders to react to the news, posting the following message on X:
“I hear new leadership is in store for @NewsfromJEA. Wish Ms. Cavey well in the future. JEA is a critical service for our residents, and I hope future leadership will do everything they can to stabilize or reduce rates.”
I hear new leadership is in store for @NewsfromJEA.
— Rory Diamond (@RoryDiamond) September 1, 2026
Wish Ms. Cavey well in the future.
JEA is a critical service for our residents, and I hope future leadership will do everything they can to stabilize or reduce rates.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan said the following of Cavey:
“Jacksonville owes Vickie a debt of gratitude for her many decades of exemplary service. I’m sending my best wishes and prayers to her and her family. The City of Jacksonville looks forward to working with JEA and its board as we all move forward together.”
Jacksonville City Council President Nick Howland thanked Cavey for her service:
“If the results of the two recent independent surveys of JEA employees are any indication, Vickie Cavey will be deeply missed. I thank her for her service and wish her every success in her next endeavor.
“As JEA turns the page, I’m hopeful its next CEO will laser-focus on the mission that matters most: providing Jacksonville families and businesses with reliable, high-quality water, sewer, and electric services at the lowest possible rates.”
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