Dade County Executive Don Townsend says he’s facing a third recall petition application — but insists the county has done nothing wrong.
Townsend noted the first recall failed and said the latest effort stems from allegations that federal American Rescue Plan funds were misused. He rejected that claim, pointing out the $3.1 million in grant funds were audited by internal and external accountants, as well as the state.
Townsend says the money paid for office upgrades, new HVAC systems — all within federal guidelines. He added that nearly all the funds have now been spent over the last several years, and he remains focused on moving the county forward.
Watch the interview below.
Rebecca Conkle has filed the latest application seeking his removal from office.
Steps in Georgia’s Recall Process
Under Georgia law, the recall of an elected official follows a defined multi-step process:
Application for Recall Petition – A group of at least 100 voters or 10% of the number registered at the last election (whichever is less) files an application with the local elections superintendent, stating specific grounds such as misconduct in office or failure to perform duties.
Judicial Review – Once filed, a Superior Court judge reviews the application to determine whether the alleged grounds for recall are both legally sufficient and stated with enough clarity. If the judge rules the grounds insufficient, the process ends.
Petition Circulation – If approved, petitioners may begin gathering signatures. The number required equals 30% of registered voters eligible at the last election of the targeted official, In Dade that would be approx 3,450 registered voters
Signature Verification – The local elections office verifies the submitted signatures against the voter registration rolls.
Recall Election – If enough valid signatures are confirmed, a recall election is scheduled. Voters then decide whether to remove the official from office.
In Townsend’s case, the application filed by Conkle must first clear the judicial review stage before petitioners can begin collecting 3,450 signatures for a recall election
