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Opa-locka commission approves resolution barring rehiring of former city manager Darvin E. Williams
Summary
On April 23, 2025, the City of Opa-locka commission adopted a resolution sponsored by Commissioner Irvin that prohibits the rehiring of former city manager Darvin E. Williams for positions the commission controls; the measure passed 2-1.
At the April 23 City Commission meeting, the City of Opa-locka voted 2-1 to adopt a resolution prohibiting the rehiring of former city manager Darvin E. Williams for positions that the commission controls.
Commissioner Irvin introduced the measure, saying she brought the resolution after hearing allegations about undisclosed financial activity and other conduct tied to the former manager. She told the commission the resolution was intended to prevent future returns that could, in her words during the meeting, “put another commission in the same situation we were where we have somebody that gives a good front, but the back is not exactly what it seems to be.”
The city attorney advised the commission that the measure fell within the body’s authority. “You all are the persons who determine hiring and firing of the charter officers,” the attorney said during the discussion, noting the commission controls contractual decisions that must be approved by the commission.
Vice Mayor Kelly voted in favor and said the resolution would remove uncertainty about a possible return. Mayor Taylor voted no. The clerk recorded the roll call as Commissioner Irvin: Yes; Vice Mayor Kelly: Yes; Mayor Taylor: No. The motion passed 2-1.
The measure is framed in the ordinance text as narrowly tailored to matters the commission controls (charter officer appointments and contractual hiring decisions) rather than directing personnel decisions for all city departments. Commissioner Irvin referenced rumors about the former manager’s intent to return and cited concerns tied to the opening of bank accounts and other conduct; she said the resolution would alleviate that uncertainty.
The resolution does not create criminal penalties; it is an expression of the commission’s hiring intent and an internal policy statement limited to offices within the commission’s authority. The city attorney said a future commission could adopt a different policy if it chooses.
No formal appeals or legal challenges were raised at the meeting; the item’s sponsor invited questions after the presentation and then called for the vote.
