A point of contention arose when the commission addressed the handling of Vicki Gainor’s departure, which involved actions by the assistant city manager and the HR director. Gainor was reportedly allowed access to city property on a Saturday to collect personal belongings, a move that one commissioner criticized as inappropriate, given the absence of the chief of police at the time. This commissioner, who reviewed video footage of the incident, expressed concerns over what Gainor might have removed, emphasizing, “nothing is documented.” This led to a motion calling for the dismissal of the assistant city manager and the HR director.

However, another commissioner highlighted the limits of the commission’s authority in employment matters, noting that decisions regarding subordinate employees rest with the city manager. The interim city manager defended the actions, clarifying that only Gainor’s personal effects were removed during her visit, as work-related items had already been cleared. Despite the heated exchange, another commissioner suggested that while the process could have been better managed, it did not warrant extreme concern. They proposed that the city implement more robust policies to ensure adherence to proper protocols in such situations.

The discussion of the personnel matter dovetailed into a broader conversation about the need for a forensic audit of the city’s finances. The commission was presented with various options for the audit, ranging from a $15,000 agreed-upon procedures review to a comprehensive $100,000 forensic audit. While a line item of $60,000 was allocated in the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget for such an audit, the finance review committee advised against pursuing it.

Commissioners were divided on the necessity of the forensic audit. One member was particularly concerned about ensuring their own integrity, stating, “I want to make sure that my name is cleared… if we don’t get one.” The potential for a state audit was also discussed, though concerns were raised about its impact on the city’s autonomy and future state funding appropriations.

The meeting also addressed the tentative budget and related matters, including the contentious issue of the millage rate for the 2026 tax roll. The proposed rate of 4.2834 stirred debate, with one commissioner expressing dissatisfaction due to rising costs for stormwater and utilities, despite budget cuts. Another commissioner acknowledged the complexities of budget management, noting the potential strain on the general fund if not carefully overseen.

Additionally, the commission discussed the renewal of debris removal contracts, recommending contracting with four companies based on evaluations from city officials. There was also a first reading for an ordinance concerning land use and the reestablishment of the charter review committee, which would primarily focus on reviewing the city clerk position.

In other matters, the commission considered expanding its lobbyist team by contracting Drew Miner from Capital City Consulting to enhance the city’s representation in Tallahassee. The proposed cost for this service was $5,500 per month, totaling approximately $60,000 annually. This move was weighed against potential benefits in securing appropriations and grants for the city.

Finally, discussions about the city’s comprehensive plan and land development code (ULDC) were held in response to state comments. The commission explored the implications of these comments, particularly concerning the septic-to-sewer conversion and intensity standards within residential land use categories. A consultant confirmed that the city was largely in compliance with state requirements, although further review of land development regulations was suggested.