Volusia County Files Motion to Disqualify GrayRobinson in Belvedere Fuel Terminals Case Due to Conflict of Interest Concerns

Posted On: January 26, 2024

Citing a potential conflict of interest, Volusia County filed a motion today, Jan. 26, to disqualify GrayRobinson from representing Belvedere Terminals in a lawsuit against the County.

GrayRobinson has served as the general counsel for the Volusia Growth Management Commission, the agency responsible for approving County and municipal comprehensive plan amendments, since 1986. In the motion, Volusia County argues that GrayRobinson's representation of Belvedere Terminals conflicts with its duty to provide unbiased counsel to the Volusia Growth Management Commission as the legal firm is concurrently challenging the County's land development authority and the firm's dual role compromises the impartiality required in reviewing the County's submissions to the VGMC.

The conflict is further highlighted by accusations from Belvedere and GrayRobinson alleging the County's violation of the comprehensive plan and bad faith that could bias the Volusia Growth Management Commission decision-making process while GrayRobinson is concurrently serving as an advisor. Volusia County’s motion emphasizes the importance of maintaining and respecting the integrity of the legal process and public trust, especially given concerns raised over GrayRobinson's simultaneous representation and the agency’s ability to legally and dutifully serve two potentially opposing clients.

Relevant documents are linked below:

Motion to Disqualify Plaintiff's Counsel

Response in Opposition to Plaintiff's Ex Parte Motion for Temporary Injunction