Residents expressed divided opinions on the potential appointment of Don King as the new city manager. Supporters highlighted King’s extensive public service experience and past candidacy, which positioned him as a viable choice. However, detractors pointed to inconsistencies in the council’s recent actions, particularly regarding the sudden pivot from extending Andy’s contract to considering King for the role. One resident criticized this abrupt change, labeling it a “180-degree turn” that undermined trust in the council’s decisions.

The council’s hiring approach also faced scrutiny. There was a debate over whether the process adhered to transparency standards, with some council members emphasizing the need for a more formal procedure. The urgency to appoint King was underscored by his active job offers elsewhere, prompting concerns about losing him as a candidate. Despite assurances that the meeting had been properly advertised, some argued for a more deliberate process, highlighting the need for public trust in council actions.

The discussion further delved into the dynamics between the prospective and interim city managers. Council members debated the logistics of having both King and Andy work together during a transitional period. Opinions varied on the appropriate timeline for such a transition, with some advocating for a gradual handover to ensure continuity and others emphasizing the need to avoid prolonged dual management.

Financial considerations also played a role in the council’s deliberations. The potential savings from not employing a search firm were weighed against the need for a thorough hiring process. The council recognized the importance of fiscal responsibility, particularly in light of taxpayer interests, and sought to balance these concerns with the practicalities of the hiring timeline.

Supporters praised King’s qualifications and leadership potential, while others reiterated the importance of adhering to established procedures and ensuring transparency. The discussion culminated in a motion to extend an offer to King, with provisions for Andy’s continued involvement during the transition. This motion was met with calls for clarity and separation of the hiring decision from Andy’s future role.

In addition to the city manager debate, the council touched on broader strategic topics, including economic development and fiscal management. The potential for waterfront enhancement and business growth was discussed, with suggestions for leveraging mechanisms like Community Redevelopment Agencies and Tax Increment Financing to stimulate development. The need for infrastructure improvements, particularly parking facilities, was highlighted as a means to generate revenue and support waterfront projects.

The meeting also addressed annexation as a strategy for revenue generation, with discussions emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and community engagement in such efforts. Lessons from previous annexation attempts underscored the necessity of a comprehensive approach to avoid selective inclusion and ensure equitable service provision.

As the meeting progressed, the council underscored the importance of negotiation and collaboration in finalizing the city manager transition. A proposal was made for the mayor to lead the negotiation efforts, citing their commitment to taxpayer interests and experience in municipal management. The council agreed to reconvene with a finalized proposal.