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City of Stuart narrows city‑manager interview roster, schedules Feb. 24 and March 3 interviews
Summary
After reviewing 82 applications, the commission accepted a screening committee’s shortlist and approved interviewing selected candidates over two days (Feb. 24 and March 3); commissioners discussed veterans’ preference rules and candidate qualifications.
The City Commission of the City of Stuart reviewed a screening committee report and voted on Feb. 13 to interview a narrowed list of candidates for the city‑manager position. Commissioners authorized a first day of interviews on Feb. 24 and a second day on March 3.
The screening committee — Vice Mayor Shawn Reid, Robin Cartwright, Karen Chambers Cuffy (HR) and Dan Hudson (former city manager) — screened 82 applications and recommended a primary set of eight candidates and an additional second tier. Commissioners discussed candidate backgrounds, Florida experience, and the statutory veterans’ preference that requires certain veterans be included on the interview list. Commissioners debated whether to add two additional candidates from the second tier; by consensus and then motion, the commission added Latoya Ricketts (tab 71) and David Harville (tab 42) to the interview roster and approved scheduling over two days.
Why it matters: the commission must balance thorough review of applicants with candidate availability; commissioners said acting quickly is important because candidates may accept other offers. The commission directed staff to provide interview materials and binders and to follow up on resume gaps (for example, a question was raised about a gap in one candidate’s employment history since 2021).
What was decided: Commissioner Gio moved and Commissioner Clark seconded a motion to hold interviews on Feb. 24 (first day) and March 3 (second day). The motion passed unanimously (4‑0). Staff will notify candidates and provide the commission with interview schedules and materials; the commission will reconvene after interviews to narrow finalists and make a hiring decision.
Public comment: visitor Brian Carter introduced himself and said he runs youth basketball and community programs in East Stuart; commissioners invited him to bring more information to a future meeting.
Next steps: staff will prepare candidate binders, schedule interview times for the two days, follow up on any resume questions, and provide commissioners with the interview day logistics. The commission will meet after the interviews to rank candidates and make a selection decision.
