We are calling for the immediate review and potential removal of Ray Powers from his position on the Lake County Board of Adjustment following a concerning incident captured on video at a private fundraising event.

Video of the incident appears to show Mr. Powers confronting CJ Blancett in a parking lot after the event. In the footage, Ms. Blancett steps backward while Mr. Powers immediately advances toward her, closing the distance in a manner that appears aggressive. His tone and language are raised and hostile, and the interaction escalates until bystanders begin recording.

The video further suggests that Ms. Blancett experienced the interaction as threatening, with her reactions indicating a belief that harm could be imminent.

Under Florida law, assault is defined as:

Florida Statute 784.011: Assault is an intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do violence to another, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, creating a well-founded fear that such violence is imminent.

While this petition does not determine legal guilt, the conduct shown in the video raises serious concerns about whether the elements of this statute may be implicated. At minimum, the behavior appears inconsistent with the level of professionalism expected of a public official.

Importantly, although the incident did not occur during a formal meeting or official proceeding, the subject matter of the confrontation reportedly involved Lake County development, elected officials, and matters directly related to Mr. Powers’ role on the Board of Adjustment. This connection raises additional concern, as it suggests that his position and influence may have been intertwined with the interaction.

Public officials are expected to maintain professionalism not only in formal settings, but also in situations where their role, authority, or influence is invoked. When conversations tied to official responsibilities escalate into behavior that appears aggressive or threatening, it becomes a matter of public concern.

Members of the Board of Adjustment hold positions of trust and authority within the community. Their actions - especially when connected to public matters - must reflect integrity, restraint, and respect for residents.

Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding potential communication between Mr. Powers and other public officials prior to the incident. While these claims remain unverified, they warrant transparency and may be appropriately reviewed through public records processes.

In addition to administrative review, this petition respectfully calls on the Lake County Sheriff’s Office to conduct an independent investigation into the incident to determine whether any laws were violated. An objective review by law enforcement will help ensure that all facts are properly evaluated and that any conclusions are based on evidence.

This petition calls on the appropriate authorities to:

• Conduct a formal and impartial review of the incident

• Determine whether Mr. Powers’ conduct violated standards expected of appointed officials

• Evaluate the relevance of his official role in the interaction

• Request that the Lake County Sheriff’s Office review the incident for potential legal violations

• Take appropriate action, including removal, if warranted

• Reinforce clear expectations for professionalism and public accountability

Public office carries responsibility beyond formal meetings. When behavior - especially in matters connected to public duties - raises credible concerns, the community deserves accountability, transparency, and due process.

We respectfully urge Lake County leadership and law enforcement to take this matter seriously and act in the best interest of the public.

Sign this petition to call for accountability, transparency, and a fair investigation.