The meeting’s primary focus was the contentious treatment of CFO Lisa McGlaughlin. Residents expressed dissatisfaction with how the city has handled her situation, emphasizing her record of perfect audits over the past two years. One resident, Von Real, criticized the charges against McGlaughlin, which arose after she allegedly attempted to access a subordinate’s city-owned computer to avoid late penalties. Real suggested that the city might face legal consequences due to this handling, stating, “I can only assume that your legal team’s getting ready for a counter suit.” The newly appointed Business Administrator’s actions, including hiring a private investigator without full commissioner approval, were also scrutinized. Real warned that such actions could foster a culture of fear among city employees, saying, “If you don’t think your other employees are saying, ‘Hey, am I next to be investigated?’… it’s just not the way we behave, guys.”

Another resident, Dan Lovelin, echoed these concerns, questioning the rationale behind pursuing actions against a seasoned employee during an ongoing lawsuit against the city. He expressed disbelief over the city’s strategy, noting, “There’s just no way that that makes any common sense at all.” Lovelin also criticized the potential misuse of information gathered by the private investigator for personal legal gain, amplifying calls for the city to reconsider the Business Administrator’s actions.

Margie Real further advocated for McGlaughlin, urging the council to cease the lawsuit and alleging harassment and retaliation from the Business Administrator. She highlighted a pattern of legal actions initiated by the Administrator in under a year, questioning the legitimacy of the investigation into McGlaughlin’s conduct. Real stated, “I urge you guys to please drop this lawsuit, stop the harassment,” calling for a reassessment of the situation. Dennis Cornoski praised McGlaughlin’s efforts in explaining the city’s financial situation to residents and expressed skepticism about the decision to investigate her, highlighting the challenges ahead regarding the city’s finances. He remarked, “I am shocked that you’re telling me that you’re going to let somebody run the finances here in Margate,” suggesting a reevaluation of governance and oversight.

Beyond the CFO controversy, the meeting addressed concerns over the proposed Washington Avenue project, projected to cost over $4 million. Residents questioned the lack of community feedback and transparency, particularly the status of a taxpayer survey request. One resident expressed dissatisfaction with the absence of a formal discussion on the survey, despite preliminary conversations having begun. Another resident, Kathy Heitzman, noted, “I have not heard one positive person” regarding the project. A city representative confirmed that project details and updates are available on the website, assuring that “an itemized change list” had been provided. Stephen Alman, representing the Citizens Advisory Board, clarified that the board had not been requested to conduct any surveys, despite being capable of doing so.

Financial transparency, particularly regarding the Washington Avenue project and related endeavors such as dredging, was another focal point. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of clarity on estimated costs, which has been an ongoing concern for eight years. They urged the council to provide clearer estimates for each project phase to better inform taxpayers. Discussions also touched on the need for transparency in financial allocations, with calls for itemized breakdowns rather than generalized bonding amounts.

Amid these discussions, the council addressed several resolutions, including those authorizing bill payments and appropriation transfers. Commissioner Maury Blumberg notably voted against resolution number 259, citing concerns over recent vendor hiring and compensation practices. He emphasized the importance of compliance with state laws and the need for the new accounting firm to review policies and procedures.