Stuart commission delays decision on city manager after contentious public comments; employment matter returned to agenda in two weeks

Commissioner Reid on the dais asked for the city manager—s resignation and moved to appoint Jolie as acting city manager while the commission sought a replacement. The motion was seconded and prompted more than a dozen public comments both criticizing and defending City Manager Mike Mortel.

The debate centered on allegations from several speakers that Mortel used city resources for personal business and on commissioners— procedural concerns. Robin Cartwright, a member of the public who said she had reviewed Mortel—s contract and records, told the commission: “He is using city resources for his personal clients.” Several…