Overview

Fesia Davenport, the CEO of Los Angeles County, has officially concluded her tenure as a county employee. Her departure follows a six-month medical leave and a contentious $2 million settlement with the county, which has drawn public scrutiny.

Davenport's resignation was announced last month, primarily due to health issues, and has been met with criticism regarding the settlement, which was initially kept confidential.

Key details

  • Fesia Davenport's last day as L.A. County CEO is today.
  • She has been on medical leave for the past six months.
  • Davenport received a $2 million settlement from the county, which has faced backlash.
  • The payout was revealed by LAist last fall after being labeled “confidential.”
  • Davenport cited health concerns as her reason for departing from her position.
  • She disclosed a family history of health issues, including a predisposition to a condition that affected her brother and sisters.
  • The $2 million settlement was approved by county supervisors without negotiation.
  • As part of the settlement, Davenport is restricted from making negative statements about the Board of Supervisors.
  • The payout was in addition to her annual salary of $630,813.
  • Union leaders expressed shock and outrage over the payout, claiming Davenport misled employees about budget constraints.
  • A lawsuit has been filed alleging the payout was illegal due to a lack of valid legal dispute.
  • County lawyers argue the payout served a legitimate public purpose.

Context

The controversy surrounding Davenport's settlement has raised questions about transparency and accountability within the county government, particularly regarding the handling of public funds and the communication between county leadership and employees.

What happens next

As Davenport steps down, the county will need to address the ongoing lawsuit regarding the legality of the payout, which could have implications for future settlements and public trust in county governance.

What we don't know yet

Details about the specific health issues Davenport is facing, the full implications of the lawsuit, and the potential outcomes of the legal challenges related to the payout remain unconfirmed.