Breman named Interim Director of Extension Office

Historic City News has learned that multi-county extension agent Jacque Breman, well known to those involved in St. Johns County’s agri-business community, has been appointed Interim Director of the St. Johns County Extension Office as of this Monday.

Breman replaces former Director David Dinkins who had been the Extension Office Director in St. Johns County since 2004. Dinkins father, a 2003 “4-H Hall of Fame” inductee, Paul Dinkins, served eighteen years as the 4-H Agent and County Extension Director for St. John’s County before his death.

Dinkins was a full time employee of the University of Florida, although, by agreement, 40% of his salary was paid by the St. Johns County Board of Commissioners.

The county understands that Dinkins will continue on with the University of Florida — in a different position at the same rate of pay.

The reason for Dinkins’ reassignment is not known, however, Historic City News was told that, as the Primary Employer, the University of Florida requested that the County allow them to handle this situation. “Consistent with legal advice from our independent labor attorney, the County did not oppose the University’s decision,” County spokesperson Karen Pan told Historic City News.

“Mr. Dinkins became a full-time employee of the University of Florida effective July 12th,” Pan said. “St. Johns County no longer participates in his salary.” A University of Florida spokesperson said, Dinkins “remains a full-time faculty member with the University of Florida.”

St. Johns County administration is saying, “Our understanding is that Dinkins is currently on paid administrative leave from UF.”