Council hires Matthew Morton as Palm Bay city manager; approves employment agreement

The Palm Bay City Council voted unanimously to hire Matthew Thomas Morton as the city's new city manager and approved the negotiated employment agreement.

Interim City Manager Scott Morgan summarized the recruitment and interview process and said Morton brings municipal and private‑sector experience the city requested. "It is important for both the city and Mr. Morton that the agreement binds the manager to ICMA's code of ethics," Morgan said, and the contract includes that requirement.

Council discussed compensation components. Councilmembers asked about deferred‑compensation and professional association dues; staff clarified the agreement's retirement and deferred‑compensation provisions align with existing charter‑officer practices. Council amended the proposed relocation allowance so any moving reimbursement would be paid after 90 days of employment. With that edit, the council approved the employment agreement by a 4‑0 vote. The agreement provides a multi‑year appointment with an agreed base salary and customary benefits and includes a severance provision (20 weeks) if the city terminates the manager within three months after two or more newly seated council members take office.

What happens next: Morton's effective start date was set by the council and staff will return with the executed agreement for filing. Council members said they will establish a schedule for an initial six‑month performance review and regular feedback.

Votes at a glance: Employment agreement with Matthew T. Morton approved (vote 4‑0); council amended relocation reimbursement to be paid after 90 days.