(ESCAMBIA COUNTY) --- Discretionary fund application paperwork proves Escambia County Clerk Comptroller Pam Childers was asked to approve party funds.
The pending lawsuit between the Escambia County Board of Commissioners and its own staff member continues to raise questions about the use of discretionary funds for charities.
In late June, Representative Alex Andrande approached commissioners regarding a four-count lawsuit: Case of Greater Pensacola Junior Golf Association and Warrington Emergency Aid Center (WEAC) Incorporated vs. Pam Childers, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller.
According to Andrande, who was acting as an attorney, not an elected official, told commissioners they had to become plaintiffs in the suit, or they would be named as defendants.
The lawsuit charges that Childers did not approve $4,500 in discretionary funds for First Tee Gulf Coast and $2,500 for WEAC pantry items.
(Photo: Escambia County Voucher for First Tee Gulf Coast Golf Ball 2025)
(Photo: Court Of De Luna Event Space Voucher Cover)
(Photo: Court Of De Luna Event Space Voucher catering item list that will be presented for review in pending lawsuit against Pam Childers)
OUR COUNTY, a local group led by resident Mary Konopka, made OpGov.News privy to paperwork that confirms that some of the discretionary funds requested were used to throw a party for the First Tee Gulf Coast Golf Ball in 2025.
“I'm sending you this because people want to know what those requests look like,” Konopka said. “I just want people to notice how it's written up and see that our money was going to a catering company and a bartending company.”
Some of the items listed on the invoice include bar setup materials such as ice, cups, napkins, mixers, straws, and garnishments.
“This was truly a party; it was a fundraising party for First Tee that used our tax dollars for a party to raise more funds," Konopka said. "There have been other non-profit organizations and entities that have requested and received our tax dollars over the years."
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