A disagreement over who holds final authority in selecting the next director of the West Florida Public Library system is unfolding just days before a scheduled vote by the Escambia County Commission.
In late February, the West Florida Public Library Board of Governance voted unanimously to recommend Bradley Vinson as its top choice for library director, with Chris Hare listed as an alternate. The recommendation followed a months-long search process that included public meetings, structured interviews, and collaboration with county human resources staff.
But on February 27, Board Chair Dr. Blaine Wall said he was notified that County Administrator Wes Moreno intended to recommend Interim Library Director Christal Bell-Rivera instead…