A Shift in Leadership: Supervisor Briskman Removed as Finance Chair After Criticism from Board

In a tense and emotional meeting, Supervisor Juli E. Briskman (D-Algonkian) was removed as chair of the Board of Supervisors' finance committee after facing sharp criticism from her fellow board members. The decision was made due to a series of incidents and comments made by Briskman over the past few years that have sparked controversy and calls for her removal. The move was supported by a narrow majority of the board, with Briskman joined by supervisors Kristen C. Umstattd (D-Leesburg) and Laura A. TeKrony (D-Little River) in opposition.

The events leading up to Briskman's removal began in 2021 when she posted a social media comment referring to Supervisor Caleb A. Kershner (R-Catoctin) as a member of the KKK. This incident sparked an investigation and ultimately led to Briskman's apology, but the damage had already been done. In 2023, Briskman made a reference to a county staff member that was deemed both untrue and hurtful, further exacerbating the situation.

Briskman's decision to post a video at a protest event in the summer of 2022 that included the use of a derogatory term and her subsequent apology were also mentioned as reasons for her removal. Additionally, her attempt to withhold pay increases from sheriff's deputies until policy changes were made by Sheriff Mike Chapman raised concerns among her colleagues. County Chair Phyllis J. Randall (D-At Large) stated that there were multiple reasons behind the change, citing her concerns about Briskman's leadership and her ability to represent the board in a professional manner.

The removal of Briskman as finance chair has left many of her supporters and colleagues feeling disheartened and disappointed. Supervisor Sylvia Glass (D-Broad Run) expressed her regret over the situation, stating that publicly censuring a fellow board member is a rare action that has only occurred a handful of times in recent history. Glass also emphasized the importance of maintaining a professional atmosphere in public and private meetings.

Briskman, who attended the meeting remotely, called the move a political one and stated that she has never violated the board's code of ethics. She expressed her disappointment and frustration with her colleagues and maintained that the move was not about accountability, but rather about silencing her opposition to certain policies and corporations.

The future outlook for the board and Briskman's role in it remains uncertain. Randall expressed her commitment to upholding the code of ethics and emphasized the importance of accountability within the board. Briskman's supporters vowed to continue standing up for their colleague and advocating for the changes she fought for. The removal of Briskman as finance chair serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise within local government and the need for clear communication and understanding among its members.

The controversy surrounding Briskman's removal has sparked a wider conversation about the role of social media in local politics and the importance of maintaining a professional online presence. It has also highlighted the need for better communication and conflict resolution within local government.

As the board moves forward, it will be important to reflect on the lessons learned from this experience and to work towards finding ways to improve communication and collaboration among its members.