Special Palatka City Commission Meeting- 5-21-26

This transcript details a special meeting of the Palatka City Commission held on May 21, 2026, primarily focused on the selection and hiring process for an interim city manager. The commission discussed whether the interim city manager should be eligible to apply for the permanent position, with a motion to allow this failing in a tied vote. Multiple candidates were interviewed, with detailed questions about their approaches to leadership, budget management, employee morale, and handling city operations during transitions. The commission also deliberated on salary negotiations for the interim city manager, agreeing to authorize offers up to the current city manager's salary and to classify the interim role as a 1099 contract position. Additionally, the commission addressed a request to approve additional expenses exceeding $21,000 for a financial audit, with discussion about the necessity and timing of these costs to meet state reporting deadlines. The city attorney committed to clarifying audit details with the auditor and reporting back to the commission. Overall, the meeting involved significant procurement-related decisions regarding the interim city manager contract and audit services, including motions and votes on compensation and expenditure approvals.