Legal Case Index​

Case 1: Gainesville Residents United, Inc., et al vs Ron DeSantis, et al.

Filed: July 3, 2023, in U.S. District Court – Northern District of Florida

Synopsis: This civil lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of Special Law 2023-348, enacted by HB 1645 (2023). The law established the "Gainesville Regional Utilities Authority." Plaintiffs argue it violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, as well as Florida's laws and constitution. 

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Case 2: City of Gainesville vs. Ron DeSantis, et al.

Filed: July 21, 2023 in Leon County Circuit Court

Synopsis: This civil lawsuit contests Special Law 2023-348, claiming it breaches the Florida Constitution and laws by: a) improperly transferring authority to the governor; b) issues with transitioning authority; c) budgetary concerns in HB 1645; d) problems with rate setting and revenue. The case also alleges violations of due process, contract impairment, lack of a referendum for Gainesville's voters, and statute violations.

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Case 3: Nath Doughtie vs Ron DeSantis, et al.

Filed: August 18, 2023, in U.S. District Court – Northern District of Florida
Synopsis: This lawsuit seeks relief against Special Law 2023-348, alleging it infringes on voting rights under the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.

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Case 4: Robert Hutchinson & Jeffrey Shapiro vs. Ron DeSantis

Filed: October 2, 2023, in Leon County Circuit Court
Synopsis: This "Petition for Writ of Quo Warranto" questions the authority under which the Governor appointed members to the Utility Authority board without public notice and with some appointees not meeting residency requirements.

Filed October 2, 2023, in Leon County Circuit Court

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Case 5: Kristen Young and David Hammer vs. City of Gainesville, Florida, et al.

Filed: October 20, 2023, in Alachua County Circuit Court

Synopsis: This "Petition for Writ of Quo Warranto" challenges the City of Gainesville's recognition of the Utility Authority, which was established by a law deemed unconstitutional. It questions the legitimacy of Mayor Harvey Ward's actions in swearing in appointees and requires Utility Authority Chair Craig Carter to justify the board's continued operations.

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Case 6: Bond Validation of Gainesville Regional Utilities vs. State of Florida

To Be Filed: In Alachua County Circuit Court
Synopsis: The Utility Authority plans to file a civil case in early 2024. State Attorney Brian Kramer will represent the public interest, with potential participation from Gainesville Residents United and others.

 

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