After debate, City of Key West adopts new Employee Policies and Procedures manual
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Summary
Commissioners debated language on at‑will employment, social‑media restrictions and nepotism before approving the new employee manual. Legal advised that collective‑bargaining agreements govern where applicable; unions had been provided copies ahead of the vote.
The commission considered the City of Key West Employee Policies and Procedures Manual after Commissioner Haskell pulled it from consent to request detailed review.
Lede: Commissioner Haskell said she wanted more time and a redline version showing changes from the existing manual; she raised concerns about expanded at‑will employment language, a prohibition on off‑duty blogging as alleged in public comment and grandfathering of nepotism provisions. City HR Director Bridget Flores and the city attorney responded that unions had been given copies, that collective bargaining agreements take precedence over general at‑will language, and that a redline could be provided.
Nut graf: A motion to postpone failed on roll call. After legal counsel explained caveats about collective bargaining and social‑media provisions, a motion to approve the manual passed by roll call. Commissioners who voted in favor said staff recommended approval and that amendments can be returned if needed; opponents said more review time was required.
What to watch: The manual includes policy language affecting employee rights and discipline; commissioners asked staff to make a redline available and to continue discussions with affected bargaining units if issues arise.
Provenance: Discussion and final roll‑call approval are recorded in the meeting minutes (Item 13).