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Winter Springs unanimously appoints Erin O'Donnell as city clerk
Summary
After a multi-platform recruitment that generated 126 applications, the commission unanimously confirmed Erin O'Donnell as city clerk; O'Donnell emphasized records management, Sunshine Law compliance and practical uses of technology in the clerk's office.
The Winter Springs City Commission unanimously appointed Erin O'Donnell as city clerk on July 13 following a recruitment process staff described as extensive: 126 completed applications, 11 candidates advanced to screening, and two finalists interviewed by a panel.
Brian Dunnigan, director of administrative services and operations, summarized the recruitment and said O'Donnell best matched the city's preferred qualifications. O'Donnell, who has nearly 20 years of experience in Florida municipal government and holds professional records credentials, told commissioners she views the clerk's role as a public-facing records steward and emphasized transparency and legal compliance: "public records is everybody's job," she said, and pledged impartial support to the commission.
Why this matters: the city clerk is the official custodian of legislative records, oversees public records requests and coordinates agenda and minute production. O'Donnell highlighted experience managing large public-records operations and digital conversion projects and described areas for modernization — including selective use of AI for redaction and transcription while protecting exemptions and privacy.
The appointment motion was made by Commissioner Sarah Baker and seconded by Commissioner Victoria Bruce; the vote was unanimous. Commissioners praised O'Donnell’s qualifications and said they welcome her to the city team. Specific start date or contract terms beyond alignment with the FY 2026 budgeted compensation were not specified during the meeting.
Next steps: O'Donnell will assume the duties of city clerk per the commission’s confirmation; staff will finalize employment paperwork and onboarding details.
