Delray Beach commissioners decline to advance supermajority charter change now after extensive public comment

Commissioners on Nov. 4 debated whether to advance a proposed charter amendment to require a supermajority vote to remove the city manager, but after extended discussion and public comment the panel recorded a consensus not to move the item forward at this time.

The item, placed on the agenda for discussion, would have amended the city charter. City staff reminded the commission that any charter change must ultimately go to voters in a referendum.

Dozens of residents used the public-comment period to urge returning to a supermajority requirement, arguing it produces more durable decisions and reduces turnover in the city manager's office. "A super majority requires can lead more durable, considered, and broadly supported policies," said resident Ernestine Holiday during public comment. Several speakers recounted Delray Beach's history of frequent city-manager turnover and urged more stability.

Vice Mayor Long and other supporters said residents should have the choice to return the question to voters; he argued that those who favor the change deserve a ballot option. Several commissioners, including the mayor and Commissioner Tom Marker, said they were inclined to leave the current simple-majority standard in place, noting the city has had the same manager for the past five years and warning that the change could insulate poor-performing managers from removal.

After discussion about timing — whether to seek a March special/muncipal ballot or wait to place the amendment on the November general-election ballot for higher turnout — the commissioners did not adopt an ordinance to place the question on an upcoming ballot. Mayor Carney summarized the result as a commission consensus not to move the charter amendment forward at this time.

Ending: Commissioners left open the option for resident-driven petitions or future consideration, but no date was set and no formal ordinance was introduced.