PALM BAY MOVES FORWARD: CHOOSING A NEW CITY MANAGER
Update on the Search Process and the February 6 City Council Meeting
Palm Bay, FL — Palm Bay is on the cusp of appointing a new City Manager to guide our rapidly growing community into the future. On February 6, 2025, Interim City Manager Scott Morgan provided an in-depth update to the City Council about ongoing recruitment efforts. Below is a closer look at the key milestones, candidate requirements, and direct insights from Morgan’s remarks.
Key Details from the Interim City Manager
“Just one update on the job from me as your interim manager, and that’s the city manager recruitment process,” said Morgan. “As of a certain point in time today, we had 69 applications received, and the close of applications reminder is February 28. I think we’re doing pretty well on that so far.”
Morgan added that he reached out to more than 100 municipal leaders during a two-day winter institute training session to generate additional interest. He emphasized that retired city managers from outside Palm Bay will categorize applications into three groups—highly recommended, recommended, and not so much—to streamline the review process for Council members.
Qualifications at a Glance
According to the city’s official posting, applicants should possess:
A bachelor’s degree in business or public administration (master’s degree preferred)
At least five years of executive-level leadership experience, preferably in local government
Membership in the International City/County Management Association (ICMA); ICMA-CM designation is preferred
These criteria aim to ensure that prospective City Managers bring both professional expertise and familiarity with municipal issues.
Timeline & Milestones
February 28, 2025: Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by this date. Morgan anticipates additional resumes arriving right up until the deadline.
March 7: Categorizing Applications
“Just as quickly thereafter, I’m going to get you [the Council] their thoughts about those three categories of all the applicants,” Morgan explained. This early insight will help Council members prepare for the next step.
March 20: Council Review & Semi-Finalist Selection
Council members will arrive ready to discuss their top picks—most likely four to six finalists—based on the categorized lists. The goal is to keep the selection focused and efficient.
April 5: Interviews With Finalists
Finalists will meet with Council members and department heads—an opportunity to gauge working relationships.
“I think if everybody prepares in advance in those 12 days, individually, come with your four or five or six, however you think is appropriate … we’ll probably move fairly quickly,” Morgan noted.
April 6–15: Background Checks
The city will conduct comprehensive background checks for the top candidate.
May 1: Finalizing the Employment Agreement
Palm Bay’s new City Manager could officially assume the role just in time for key budget discussions.
Palm Bay’s Key Priorities
As Palm Bay continues to expand, residents and officials hope the new City Manager will address infrastructure upgrades, tax and millage rates, and public safety improvements. Looking ahead to the coming weeks, Morgan remains optimistic:
“I think you’re going to see some good candidates in there,” he said, reflecting on the strong pool of applicants.
Still, there has been no mention or scheduling of any public meet-and-greet for the finalists—a concerning oversight that undermines transparency and public trust. Many residents strongly believe they should have a direct opportunity to engage with potential City Managers, particularly given the vital role this position plays in shaping Palm Bay’s future.
Addressing Current Community Concerns
Recent Council meetings have revealed that local roads, stormwater management, and overall citywide planning are top of mind for many residents. In response, several Council members have indicated that they want a new City Manager who can collaborate closely with the community on these issues. A proactive approach to resident feedback—through town halls or online forums—could help the city tackle such concerns head-on, ensuring that growth benefits everyone.
Cross-Link: Leadership Transitions
For more on recent leadership changes, read our feature on interim management, which highlights how Palm Bay has navigated key staffing shifts.
Stay Connected
Attend Council Meetings: Mark your calendars for March 20 and April 5. Public comment sessions allow residents to share concerns and priorities.
Reach Out to Council Members: Communicate any specific issues you’d like addressed by the next City Manager.
Encourage Qualified Applicants: Know someone with executive experience in local government? Spread the word before February 28.
Palm Bay’s future depends on active residents and thoughtful leadership. We’ll keep you updated on every development—stay tuned!
*Curated by AI and fact-checked by *The Palm Bayer