Dettra terminated from Cultural Events Division

Historic City News was forwarded a comment from Troy Blevins, Director of the Recreation and Parks Department in St. Johns County regarding the termination of Ryan Dettra who previously served as the General Manager of the St. Johns County Cultural Events Division.

In October of 2009, the county human resources department reported to Historic City News that Ryan R. Dettra had been employed since April 30, 2007 and was serving as General Manager at the Amphitheatre earning $70,875.38.

St. Johns County terminated the employment of Ryan Dettra, effective Friday, December 3, 2010.

This termination was the result of Mr. Dettra’s failure to comply with an established Performance Improvement Plan while on a six-month probationary period.

Blevins comment reads:
“I am saddened that Ryan is no longer part of the St. Johns County team. Ryan worked hard for St. Johns County over the past three years and played a significant role in advancing the County’s cultural events to a level no one anticipated. Unfortunately, his failure to communicate appropriately detracted from the continued success of the Amphitheatre, as well as other arts and cultural activities in the County.”

County spokesperson Karen Pan told Historic City News today that “a recent insubordinate email indicated a continued inability to communicate in a professional and respectful manner, resolve problems positively, and share information appropriately.”

According to Pan, the decision to terminate was made by Troy Blevins, Director of the Recreation and Parks Department, with the full knowledge and support of County Administration.

“St. Johns County remains committed to providing high-quality cultural activities to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors,” Pan wrote in the announcement.

31 year-old Dettra was warned about his manner of communication after he sent an e-mail to various county staff and a newspaper reporter on June 8, 2010. Dettra made serious allegations regarding the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall renovation project. He was placed on administrative leave on June 11th.

County Administration offered Dettra an opportunity to remain in his current position, at a reduced salary, while placing him on a six-month probation period — under a mandatory performance improvement plan.

According to a note made by Blevins on Friday afternoon, he hand delivered the termination notice to Dettra at 3:43 p.m., however, Dettra refused to sign for the letter.