Indian River County administratorscontract renewal draws split board and public criticism over timing and communication

The Indian River County Board of County Commissioners heard an extended discussion Nov. 4 over a proposed three-year renewal of the county administrator—9s employment agreement after the administrator asked that the board consider the renewal at this meeting.

The administrator told the commission the proposed contract would not include any additional salary increase, would add consistent deferred-compensation language, provide an extra year of vacation accrual and require an annual performance review completed individually by each commissioner and discussed publicly. He said the renewal was intended to send a message of stability to staff and the community and noted accomplishments he attributed to his administration, including master plans in parks and recreation and utilities, an updated utilities rate study and increased road-resurfacing activity.

Deputy County Attorney Susan Prado read the administrator—9s request into the record. The administrator (name not specified in the transcript) said the contract renewal was timely under the current agreement and that he sought clarity for his family and staff.

Vice Chair…