Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Personnel Recruitment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Tallahassee commission authorizes nationwide search for next city manager after heated debate
Summary
Following the city manager's announced retirement, Tallahassee commissioners authorized hiring Renee Norlock & Associates to run a nationwide search for a new city manager. The decision followed a contentious debate over timeline, community engagement and whether the outgoing manager should oversee the process; a substitute motion to install an interim manager and postpone the national search failed 2–3.
Tallahassee's city manager told the commission on May 13 that he intends to retire this fiscal year, and commissioners voted to begin a nationwide recruitment process and authorize the hiring of executive search firm Renee Norlock & Associates.
Human resources director Sondra Timpson told the commission the recommended firm met proposal criteria and the city would work with the consultant to develop a candidate profile, conduct a national outreach campaign and return with a short list for public interviews. Staff estimated a typical timeline of roughly 16 weeks but commissioners asked for a June update and retained discretion over scheduling and community engagement elements.
The session included a heated exchange over process and timing. Commissioner Matlow offered a substitute motion calling for the city manager to resign immediately and for the deputy city manager to serve as interim with a one‑year term so a new commission could select a permanent manager. The substitute motion was seconded but failed 2–3. Supporters of the recruitment argued that hiring an executive firm and recruiting during the summer is an appropriate way to attract qualified candidates and that the recruiter would provide interim scheduling options.
The main motion — to authorize the executive firm and begin the recruitment, with a friendly amendment to return to the commission in June with a detailed timeline and next steps — passed 4–1. Commissioners discussed ensuring community involvement (town halls and public meetings once finalists are identified) and preserving flexibility in timing if the commission wants to extend the search.
The commission also discussed past selection processes and urged transparency and public engagement; staff said the recruiter would meet individually with commissioners, collect input on candidate qualifications and start national outreach immediately. The search process is expected to include candidate vetting, a short list and public interviews before any final appointment.
What’s next: staff will work with the consultant to develop the candidate profile, begin outreach and present a detailed schedule and process update at the commission's June meeting.
