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Daytona Beach Shores accepts city manager's resignation; names Director Mike Fowler interim
Summary
The City Commission accepted City Manager Kurt Swartzlander's resignation effective Oct. 14, 2025, and appointed Director Mike Fowler as interim manager while discussing a public recruitment process and possible use of ICMA or search consultants.
The Daytona Beach Shores City Commission voted unanimously to accept City Manager Kurt Swartzlander's resignation, effective Oct. 14, 2025, and to appoint Director Mike Fowler as interim city manager.
Mayor Miller announced the resignation and said the decision was "very good for his family." Swartzlander told the commission, "my last day will be October 14, and I will be heading on to different pastures." The commission moved and the motion passed 5-0 to accept his resignation.
Commissioner Dubinsky nominated Director Mike Fowler to serve as interim manager "to work along with Kurt until he ultimately leaves on October 14," and Fowler accepted, saying, "I appreciate your confidence, and I will gladly accept. I've been with the city 33 years." The commission approved Fowler's interim appointment by voice vote, 5-0.
Much of the ensuing discussion focused on how the city should conduct a search for a permanent replacement. Commissioners debated starting with an in-house, statewide or regional search versus hiring a search consultant or using ICMA (International City/County Management Association). The city attorney advised that any staff-led resume review must comply with Florida's Sunshine Law and be publicly noticed; outside consultants could provide private recommendations but commissioners would still make the final decisions in public meetings.
Commissioners provided a range of cost estimates for a professional search, with figures discussed in the meeting ranging from roughly $15,000 to $50,000 depending on scope and vendor. The commission agreed to prepare a job advertisement and hold workshops to set minimum qualifications and the selection process, with further discussion at the Sept. 8 commission meeting.
Mayor Miller said the city will "get a form" to advertise and asked staff and the vice mayor to lead the outreach and recruitment steps. The mayor also emphasized taking the time needed to find the right candidate: "I don't want to rush into a decision."
