City Commission Meeting - September 9, 2026

The City Commission Meeting of Tallahassee on September 9, 2026, included extensive discussions on several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement topics included the approval of the city manager employment agreement with Dr. Karen Jumville, featuring a $317,000 starting salary, a $1,000 monthly car allowance, and a termination clause requiring a supermajority vote for removal. The commission debated the legality and appropriateness of the supermajority termination provision, ultimately approving the contract by a 3-2 vote. The meeting also covered the introduction and approval of ordinances related to zoning changes and water and sewer service rates, with nominal increases in utility fees based on independent rate studies. The fiscal year 2027 budget was presented with a total operating budget of $983 million, including a millage rate of 4.4072 mills, solid waste and parking rate adjustments, and healthcare rate approvals. The commission approved the budget and millage rates, despite some dissent regarding spending priorities and tax increases. Additionally, the commission approved a development agreement with Dr. Horton for Southwood property, and a motion was passed to transfer site control of the Appalache Ridge Technology Center to the Greater Appalache Ridge Neighborhood Association, including a reverter clause to maintain public purpose. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public safety technology, particularly the use of license plate reader (LPR) cameras. Following community concerns and actions by the Leon County Sheriff, the commission voted to suspend the use of Flock and Motorola LPR cameras, with a substitute motion to bag and remove the cameras within 30 days and require future city commission approval for surveillance technology. Public comments heavily focused on privacy, surveillance, and community impact issues. Other topics included discussions on shared use agreements for school tracks and game day traffic management. The meeting reflected active public engagement and highlighted tensions around governance, transparency, and community priorities.