In a recent city council meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the selection process for the city administrator, particularly the proposed executive session discussions that would exclude public participation. One council member expressed strong opposition to conducting discussions behind closed doors, emphasizing the importance of transparency in decisions that impact the city. They urged the council to reconsider the current process, asserting that the council, not the mayor, should hold the authority to select the city administrator.

The council member highlighted the need for public involvement in the selection process, suggesting that the community should have a voice in determining who manages key city operations. This sentiment was echoed by other attendees, who called for a resolution to change the selection process to enhance public engagement.

Concerns about potential conflicts of interest within the selection committee were also raised, particularly regarding a member's ties to the Davenport Art Museum. The discussion underscored the importance of ensuring that the selection process is free from any perceived biases or conflicts.

Legal counsel was consulted during the meeting to clarify the city code governing the selection process, which stipulates that the mayor appoints one of three candidates recommended by the committee, followed by a council vote for approval. The council was reminded that any changes to the ordinance would require a lengthy process, potentially delaying the selection.

As the meeting concluded, the council moved to an executive session to discuss litigation strategies, with no further public discussions scheduled for the evening. The council's decision to enter executive session raised additional questions about transparency and accountability in local governance.