One of the topics was the selection process for a new city manager. The commission reviewed 14 candidates, narrowing them down to five based on a point system. The top candidates included Christopher Lightfoot, Jonathan Rory, Roger Omenheiser, Zach Deweiler, and Rebecca Hart. The commission agreed on conducting Zoom interviews within the next two weeks, followed by potential in-person interviews with the top three candidates. This process aimed to ensure a thorough evaluation while complying with the Sunshine Law, emphasizing transparency and public involvement.

There was debate over the proposal to extend a contract to the interim city manager to maintain continuity. Some members supported this idea, citing the interim manager’s performance, while others insisted on interviewing all candidates to ensure a fair selection process. The commission also considered having a citizen observer, such as Gat Parker, participate in the interview process to enhance transparency and verify the fairness of the proceedings.

Public engagement was another focal point. The commission deliberated on the idea of organizing town hall meetings to supplement existing public commentary during commission meetings. This proposal aimed to provide residents with more opportunities to voice concerns and engage with the commission on various issues. Some members suggested adopting a format similar to Panama City’s, where public comments would be limited to agenda items during regular meetings. They proposed holding town hall meetings monthly or quarterly to allow for broader discussions.

The discussion also touched on security measures within city facilities, particularly regarding the installation of security cameras in the city manager’s suite. Concerns were raised about employee safety, and the need for enhanced security measures was emphasized. However, the removal of a camera deemed unnecessary and invasive sparked controversy, as it was believed to capture sensitive information at the city manager’s desk.

Personnel issues were addressed, particularly the circumstances surrounding the termination of an employee, Joe Futin. The manner in which the termination notice was delivered—by a police officer at the employee’s home—raised questions among the commissioners.

Infrastructure improvements were also on the agenda, with updates on a $13 million loan application for sewer infrastructure enhancements. Ongoing issues with water leaks and broken pipes due to recent weather conditions were noted, alongside the nearing completion of the Cane playground project. The interim city manager announced that the city had secured a grant for new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), which would be installed across various city facilities.

Public commentary during the meeting revealed residents’ concerns about the reliability of Flock data, a surveillance system used by law enforcement. One resident, David Schwitzer, highlighted potential dangers associated with inaccurate data from Flock, urging the commission to reconsider their trust in the system. Another resident, Sandy, supported local oversight in permitting, emphasizing the inefficiency of Bay County’s permit department.

The commission also discussed the role of the city clerk, with suggestions to redefine the position to ensure accountability and transparency in financial matters. There was a consensus on holding a referendum in August to establish the city clerk as a direct report to the city commission, alongside the city manager and city attorney. This would require public approval and necessitate revisions to the city charter.