Investigator finds pattern of inappropriate conduct by Palm Coast mayor; council to send complaint to state ethics board

An independent investigator concluded Thursday that Palm Coast Mayor Mike Norris exhibited a pattern of “inappropriate conduct and unprofessional behavior” that undermined the city’s council-manager form of government and created a hostile work environment, and that he exceeded his powers under the city charter by seeking resignations of senior staff.

The finding came as outside investigator Adam Brandon of the law firm Lawson Hunt Gonzales presented a written report to the Palm Coast City Council after interviewing city employees, council members and other witnesses. Brandon read his conclusion aloud: “These findings reveal a pattern of inappropriate conduct and unprofessional behavior by Mayor Mike Norris that undermines the city’s council-manager form of government and creates a hostile work environment for city employees.”

Brandon told the council his recommendations include referring the matter to the Florida Commission on Ethics for further legal review, initiating formal censure proceedings, strengthening enforcement mechanisms in the city charter and…