Lynn Haven commission appoints interim city manager after contentious public outcry

The Lynn Haven City Commission on a 3-0 vote appointed an interim city manager amid sustained public criticism of last week’s actions and calls for an outside search.

Public commenters filled the meeting to protest developments that followed Friday’s meeting, with some describing that earlier action as a "grave miscarriage of justice." Tony Bostick told the commission: "You guys capitulated and let the will and the wish of one man with money caused a grave miscarriage of justice" (public comment). Other residents urged the commission to avoid optics that could appear partisan or self-interested and to consider an independent interim or a League of Cities placement.

Commission discussion began with an effort to identify internal candidates. Commissioners discussed three names on the record — Assistant City Manager Jennifer Hodges and staff members Bobby Baker and Chris Lightfoot — and the city attorney advised the panel that, under the charter, a resolution to appoint an interim requires an affirmative vote of three. Commissioners used a written ballot to determine preferences before formal motions were offered.

Commissioner Purnell moved to appoint Chris Lightfoot as interim city manager. After public comment and additional discussion about optics, legal risk and bank-signature logistics, the commission recorded votes of "Yes" from Commissioner Purnell, Commissioner Wark and Commissioner Peoples; the motion carried. The commission also recorded directions to staff to solicit outside assistance to identify an external interim or permanent candidate, to contact the League of Cities and FCCMA, and to obtain quotes from search firms or headhunters if needed.

Finance staff warned the commission that bank signature cards require the mayor’s signature to change and that payroll and accounts payable runs were imminent; the commission moved separately to authorize the mayor pro tem or authorized interim to sign only if the bank would accept that change.

The commission’s action leaves open several procedural tasks: staff was directed to prepare a city profile and salary range for recruitment and to determine whether a budget amendment will be necessary to pay for a headhunter before Oct. 1. The commission also emphasized an intent — not a binding legal restriction — that major department-head hiring be presented to the commission for advice and consent while the transition continues.

The commission adjourned after completing the agenda and giving staff direction to begin the external search.