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Commission shortens city manager application window to 60 days and outlines next steps
Summary
The commission voted to reduce the advertised application period for the city manager position from 90 days to 60 days and discussed forming a selection process; the vice mayor will present a proposed committee structure and timeline at a future meeting.
The Daytona Beach Shores City Commission voted Tuesday to shorten the application period for its city manager recruitment from 90 days to 60 days and directed staff and the city attorney to update the advertised timeline accordingly.
The commission discussed selection‑process options and agreed the vice mayor will return with a proposed protocol, including recommended membership for a screening committee and background‑check timing. City Attorney Becky Vos and staff reiterated that the city must follow open‑meetings (sunshine) rules and handle candidate records appropriately.
Why it matters: the change accelerates the advertised deadline for applicants and begins a formalized review of procedures for screening, interviewing and checking finalists. Commissioners emphasized the need to balance an efficient timetable with opportunities for public input, appropriate vetting and statutory transparency.
Key points from the discussion: commissioners questioned whether the original 90‑day window was too long and noted the holiday season could delay interviews and onboarding regardless of deadline. Interim City Manager Kurt Swartzlander told the commission many qualified candidates may delay applying until the closing week to avoid public disclosure; ICMA‑style guidance discussed by staff recommended background investigations after finalists are identified. Commissioners discussed including city department directors and a citizen representative in a screening committee and asked the city attorney to advise on committee composition and whether committee meetings must be public.
Decision: after discussion the commission adopted a motion to change the application closing date to a 60‑day period (motion passed 5–0). The vice mayor will work with the city attorney to present a recommended selection committee composition and a detailed, sunshine‑compliant timeline for the commission’s consideration at a later meeting.
