Randy Sherman, the Chief Financial Officer for the city of Riviera Beach for over 14 years, filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Southern District of Florida on August 31. The suit alleges racial discrimination, a hostile work environment, and disparate treatment in disciplinary practices.

Sherman claims the discrimination involves the city's former Director of Human Resources and Risk Management, Tennille DeCoste, and alleges harassment and retaliation by Councilman Bruce Guyton. According to the lawsuit, Sherman was repeatedly referred to as a "white man" and falsely accused of racism. The filing claims DeCoste and others retaliated against Sherman after he raised concerns regarding hiring practices and alleged that Black employees and officials received more favorable treatment in disciplinary matters.

The lawsuit details a travel expense dispute beginning in June 2025. Sherman alleges that Guyton sought advance payment or reimbursement that did not follow city guidelines, which require proper documentation and allow 10 days for processing. Sherman claims Guyton stated he did not have to follow city policy and told him staff should carry out his directives because

he is the boss

. Sherman further alleges Guyton accused him of being racist and sexist, pressured former City Manager Jonathan Evans to discipline him, and criticized Sherman's handling of the request during a public City Council meeting.

In September 2025, Sherman was suspended for three business days without pay following a dispute with a consultant regarding a police union contract. Mayor Douglas Lawson cited concerns regarding Sherman's professionalism, respect, decorum, and leadership. The city council voted to uphold the suspension. Sherman alleges this discipline was racially discriminatory and required him to attend anger management training.

Sherman is seeking loss of wages, back pay, compensatory damages, a jury trial, and a court order barring further discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. According to the city website, Sherman remains employed as the chief financial officer.