Florida Developmental Disabilities Council executive director steps down

Florida Disabilities Council Executive Director Valerie Breen announced her resignation Monday in an email, citing health concerns.

Former Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director and Tallahassee lobbyist Jim DeBeaugrine is serving as acting executive director until a permanent replacement for Breen is found.

Breen said she’s been away from work “dealing with a serious health matter.” She didn’t disclose any details but said between her health concerns and the scheduled end of her contract, she “has come to accept that  I  will not be able to return to my role as Executive Director before my contract concludes.”

“This is not how I envisioned ending my time with FDDC, and it is certainly not the way I would have chosen to say goodbye to an organization and community that have meant so much to me,” she said in the email.

She added that while she’s stepping away from the FDDC professionally, she is “not closing the door on the people who have been such an important part of my life.”

“I welcome cards, notes, emails, or other messages, although I may not always be able to respond right away. Please know that your thoughts and kindness are deeply appreciated,” she wrote.

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council is an advisory board, established under the federal Developmental Disabilities and Bill of Rights Act. It is charged with helping create policies that improve the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as their families and other supports.

The council receives about $4 million annually in federal funding.

The 26 members of the council are appointed by the governor. The executive director works for the council.