City Council discusses appointment of new city manager amid candidate concerns

The Palm Coast City Council convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss the critical decision of selecting a new city manager, a role pivotal to the community's governance and future. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced during the selection process, which began with over 40 applicants but has now narrowed down to two finalists.

Council members expressed gratitude for the candidates' participation and the public engagement that accompanied the selection process. However, concerns were raised regarding the qualifications of the remaining candidates. One council member emphasized the original goal of finding a "rock star" candidate with experience managing a city of similar size, noting that the current options may not fully meet this expectation. This sentiment reflects a desire for strong leadership to navigate the city's challenges and instabilities.

Another council member, who joined the process later, acknowledged the qualifications of the two finalists but stressed the urgency of making a decision. They proposed that if the council were to appoint a candidate that evening, it would be essential to establish a start date to allow for a smooth transition, especially considering the potential relocation of the new manager.

The discussions underscored the council's commitment to finding a capable leader who can address the city's pressing issues while also recognizing the need for a timely resolution to the selection process. As the council moves forward, the decision made will significantly impact the community's governance and the direction of Palm Coast in the coming years.