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Fort Lauderdale names Sherry L. McCartney city attorney amid salary dispute
Summary
The Fort Lauderdale City Commission voted 4–1 to appoint Sherry L. McCartney as city attorney effective Dec. 15, 2025, fixing compensation at $350,000 after debate over whether the amount exceeded the posted salary range and compressed internal pay scales.
The Fort Lauderdale City Commission on Nov. 18 appointed Sherry L. McCartney as the city's next city attorney effective Dec. 15, 2025, approving a resolution that sets her compensation at $350,000.
Debate centered on pay and precedent. Commissioner Beasley Pittman said she was "concerned with the amount that has been listed for the $350,000" and noted the increase exceeded the salary advertised for the job and typical historical increases of about 5–7 percent. Vice Mayor Herbst said he supported McCartney personally but would not support the salary, arguing the city should not routinely pay above posted ranges.
Supporters of the pay package said the role is a charter officer position that must attract and retain experienced legal leadership. Mayor Dean J. Trentales and other commissioners said parity with the city manager and the unique demands of the charter officer role justified the level. Commissioners also discussed internal compression: one commissioner noted top attorneys in the legal department earn roughly 23 percent less than the current interim city attorney and that the proposed figure fit an internal progression.
Human resources staff clarified salary context. Jerome, director of human resources, explained the posted recruitment range used regional comparisons and that Dwayne Spence — listed as deputy/is serving as interim city attorney —'s compensation appeared in the payroll system at about $298,000 after a recent cost‑of‑living adjustment. That figure was cited during discussion as a benchmark for the new hire.
The resolution passed on a roll call vote with Commissioner Beasley Pittman voting no and the remaining commissioners voting yes. Mayor Trentales congratulated McCartney and said the commission looks forward to her starting on Dec. 15.
Action: The commission approved the resolution appointing Sherry L. McCartney as city attorney, effective Dec. 15, 2025, with compensation fixed at $350,000. The resolution passed 4–1.
