Crestview council directs completion of performance improvement plan on public records handling

The Crestview City Council on May 27 voted to authorize completion of a performance improvement plan addressing how the city processes public‑records requests and to return the plan for public discussion at the council’s June 9 meeting.

Mayor Whitten introduced the item, saying the council had received multiple complaints about how public‑records requests are processed and noting that the office that handles requests works for the council as a whole rather than for the mayor. He described the proposed step as a performance improvement plan to identify process changes rather than an evaluation of any single employee. “This is not an evaluation,” Mayor Whitten said; the council was told the regular personnel evaluation is scheduled for October.

Councilman Bullock moved that the council proceed with the performance improvement plan and present it on June 9; Mayor Pro Tem Caps seconded the motion. The motion passed 5‑0.

Council members asked whether they could review examples of the complaints; staff told them the city manager and IT department would provide emails or documentation requested by council members. During public comment, resident Kenneth Sala asked whether requested emails and documents could be shared; staff replied they would meet with him and supply the material as appropriate.

City staff said the plan would list expectations and suggested improvements; the council will compile individual concerns in public at the June 9 meeting so the body can agree on a single course of action. The council did not take personnel disciplinary action during the meeting.