The selection of a new council member emerged as the most contentious issue of the meeting. The vacancy arose following the departure of Buddy Pinder, and the council was tasked with filling his seat within a 30-day deadline to comply with the village’s charter. Candidates presented their qualifications, highlighting diverse backgrounds and community contributions. Anna Richards, a licensed realtor with leadership experience in local organizations, underscored her commitment to protecting Islamorada’s unique environment and her plans to foster community development.

Council members were divided in their support for Dully and Richards, leading to a series of votes that resulted in deadlocks. Despite multiple attempts to resolve the stalemate, including light-hearted suggestions of a coin toss, the council could not secure a majority for either candidate. Public comments reflected community concerns about the appointment process, with some residents advocating for a candidate who had previously run for office to fill the seat. Others questioned potential conflicts of interest and urged the council to prioritize candidates’ qualifications and commitment to community values over personal relationships.

In parallel with the council seat discussions, the meeting also addressed the appointment of an interim village manager. Alan Cohen, who has extensive experience in municipal management, was considered for the role. Cohen’s candidacy was well-received by council members, who appreciated his management philosophy and leadership experience. However, concerns were raised about the potential impact on existing staff, particularly Sheila, who is currently managing the building department and stepping in as an interim manager. Public comments echoed the need for stability in management roles, and the council ultimately decided to proceed with negotiations with Cohen.

The meeting further explored the potential impact of a federal funding freeze on local programs. The council requested the interim village manager to assess which programs might be affected and report back on potential funding reductions.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council deliberated on the procedural complexities of the appointment process and the importance of adhering to the village’s charter. A motion was made to table the discussion of the council seat appointment until the March meeting, allowing more time for reflection and potentially new strategies for resolution. This decision was met with a mix of relief and frustration.