✅ Council Approves New City Manager, Accepts Compound Plan; Tables Key LDC Changes
Key votes shape city leadership and future growth strategies; LDC changes tabled for review. 📰
Palm Bay, FL - The Palm Bay City Council addressed several significant items during its regular meeting on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Key outcomes included the approval of an employment agreement for new City Manager Matthew Morton, acceptance of a redevelopment plan for 'The Compound', and decisions on proposed changes to the City's Land Development Code (LDC).
Community Voices Heard 🗣️
Residents addressed the Council on various topics during the general public comment period. Lance Fischer voiced concerns regarding past interactions with Police Chief Aiello and agency transparency. Trish Tobar advocated strongly for Sgt. Frank Tobar's inclusion in the Sacrifice Park memorial, prompting confirmation from Chief Aiello that a process for considering additions is underway.
Mark Miller thanked the Fire Chief for supporting a community event, promoted upcoming events like the Easter Extravaganza and Bible Reading Marathon, and spoke about civic engagement. Pastor Kent Delgado shared an Easter message. Others commented on city efficiency and the need for road improvements, concerns about out-of-state developers and praised staff responsiveness. Bill Batton also spoke on self-defense rights in relation to the FSU shooting.
New City Manager Hired
Interim City Manager Scott Morgan introduced the proposed employment agreement, highlighting Mr. Morton's experience and the contract's requirement for adherence to the ICMA Code of Ethics. Public comments preceded the vote, with Bill Batton questioning the cost implications of association dues (later clarified by staff as deferred compensation contributions, not ICMA dues) and severance terms, while Mark Miller urged Council to support the incoming manager and provide regular feedback.
Council discussion touched upon the salary justification relative to other cities, the standard practice of including professional association costs, and the rationale behind the severance clause offering stability. Following debate, the Council voted 4-0 to approve the employment agreement for Matthew Thomas Morton, effective May 1st. Following a motion addressing concerns raised by Deputy Mayor Jaffe, the agreement was amended to stipulate that the $10,000 relocation allowance will be paid only after 90 days of employment.
Compound Redevelopment Action Plan Accepted
Deputy City Manager Joan Junkala-Brown presented the action plan, developed over three months by EPA consultant Vita Nuova, as a "proactive" but high-level vision for developing Port Malabar Unit 53 into an employment center over 5-8 years. The plan includes phased development concepts, potential land swaps (notably with BRP), infrastructure needs, and economic projections, acknowledging significant investment would be required.
Several speakers addressed the plan. Bill Batton stressed the need for the St. Johns Heritage Parkway completion before development, raised funding concerns, cautioned against converting other industrial land, questioned the proposed "Port Malabar Business Park" name, and drew comparisons to the stalled Emerald Lakes project. Kim Roseno, representing a design contractor, noted private interest in developing utilities and roads via special assessment but also highlighted market challenges. Property owner David Moallem emphasized the critical need for the Parkway and infrastructure, offered his 100 acres for cooperation, and requested zoning flexibility.
Council discussion acknowledged the plan as a necessary long-term vision. Members echoed public comments on the absolute necessity of the Parkway and significant infrastructure investment, suggesting public-private partnerships and special assessments would likely be required. The importance of rebranding the area and coordinating with stakeholders like BRP and Mr. Moallem on land swaps and needs was also highlighted. Councilman Hammer suggested involving the new City Manager before making major commitments. Ultimately, Council voted 4-0 to accept the Action Plan, directing staff to return with a plan incorporating the report's recommendations, timelines, and budget details.
Land Development Code Updates Tabled/Amended
During discussion on proposed LDC changes, Bill Batton reiterated the importance of comprehensive traffic studies early in the process, using Gainer Road as an example of impacts on local roads. Ruth Kaufhold expressed concern about development changes potentially bypassing public input, referencing issues at Crown Square.
Council addressed these and internal concerns:
Ordinance 2025-16 (Development Review Procedures): Citing concerns about public notice radius for PUDs (requesting 750-ft), the timing of traffic studies, and modification approval authority, Council voted 4-0 to table this item until the May 15, 2025 meeting, allowing the new City Manager time for review.
Ordinance 2025-17 (Definitions): Council approved this ordinance 4-0 on its first reading but directed staff to amend the definition of 'fill' based on concerns about including organic material. It will return for a second reading and final vote.
Affordable Housing Property List Pulled
Public comment included Ruth Kaufhold suggesting alternative uses for surplus properties like community facilities, and Robert Sty advocating for prioritizing road funding.
Reflecting these comments and internal discussion about potentially selling surplus properties for road funds versus dedicating them solely to affordable housing, Resolution 2025-17 was pulled by staff before a vote. Staff committed to reviewing the properties and existing commitments before bringing back revised recommendations.
Other Key Votes
Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (4-0).
HOME Program Funding: Council unanimously (4-0) approved using FY 2025-2026 HOME funds for an owner-occupied housing rehabilitation program for seniors.
GPBSC Lease Extension: A one-year lease extension for the Greater Palm Bay Senior Center was approved 4-0 after brief discussion and a question from Bill Batton about membership costs.
Fund Balance Policy Update (Res. 2025-18): Approved 4-0.
Budget Amendment (Ord. 2025-18): Passed first reading 4-0.
Recognitions and Transitions
The meeting included proclamations honoring local student athletes and recognizing Fair Housing Month. Mayor Medina appointed Logan Luse to the Infrastructure Advisory and Oversight Board. The Council concluded by expressing significant appreciation for Interim City Manager Scott Morgan's service during the transition period.
Learn More: Full meeting minutes and recordings are typically available on the City of Palm Bay's website for residents seeking more details.
Curated by AI and fact-checked by The Palm Bayer.
Spelling corrections, Ruth Kaufhold and Logan Luse.