The commission prioritized the search for a new city manager, recognizing the importance of leadership stability. Miss Hodes explained that the city could explore hiring an executive search firm, with costs ranging from $35,000 to $50,000, to ensure a comprehensive search. Commissioners weighed the benefits of utilizing an external firm against conducting an internal search. They discussed the value of citizen feedback and the necessity of defining criteria for the city manager role. The conversation highlighted a desire to balance cost-effectiveness with the need for a thorough and reliable search process.

Simultaneously, the commission tackled the potential unionization of the city’s firefighters, which necessitated specialized legal expertise. Miss Myers presented the option of engaging the law firm Jackson Lewis, known for its labor relations work with other municipalities. The commission agreed unanimously to hire the firm, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach with the union to avoid adversarial proceedings. While there were concerns about the engagement’s potential costs, the need for expert legal guidance was acknowledged as crucial.

Public commentary during the meeting reflected significant discontent with the commission’s past handling of personnel matters. Citizens called for greater accountability and expressed concerns about financial management. One speaker, George Hines, criticized the city’s budgetary practices and urged accountability, while Alvin Peters, representing former city manager Vicky Gainor, condemned what he perceived as a “rush to judgment” in her termination. Peters contrasted Gainor’s treatment with that of former city manager Michael White, who faced serious legal issues but was allowed to resign and negotiate his severance. This sentiment was echoed by other speakers, who questioned the commission’s decision-making process and demanded transparency.

Infrastructure issues were also a key focus of the meeting. Commissioners discussed transportation safety, particularly the need to widen roads like State Route 20 to accommodate construction vehicles safely. A presentation from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) provided insights into their operations, and commissioners appreciated the new perspective it offered. The meeting also addressed concerns about emergency repairs needed for the city’s sewer infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of emergency funds to prevent environmental hazards.

Budget concerns were prevalent throughout the meeting, with discussions about staff wellbeing and support in light of recent operational challenges. The commission considered the timeline for completing the budget workshop, with a focus on ensuring fair treatment for all employees. Additionally, there was discussion about updating the fee schedule for non-Lynn Haven residents using city sports facilities, with proposals for modest increases to offset costs borne by local taxpayers.

Operational updates from Mr. Lightfoot included the issuance of a temporary Certificate of Occupancy for City Hall and ongoing repairs to the building’s alarm system. He clarified financial obligations, stating the city owed less to a contractor than previously suggested. Updates were provided on stormwater management and sidewalk improvement projects, with timelines for upcoming construction activities shared.

The meeting also featured the approval of a motion to purchase 500 Singapore transmitters for the city’s water meter program, aimed at enhancing billing accuracy through a radio read system. Additionally, the commission approved an amendment to the Community Development Block Grant for drainage improvements on Acme Lane, extending the project’s deadline.

Discussion turned to the proposed purchase of a custom fire engine, facilitated by a $980,000 state funding appropriation. The fire department chief emphasized the necessity of replacing an outdated pumper truck to ensure community safety and efficient fire response. Commissioners noted that the purchase was already accounted for in the upcoming fiscal budget.