Palm Bay Secures Seasoned Leader as Interim City Manager

Scott Morgan Brings Decades of Experience to Guide the City Through Transition

Palm Bay, FL — With the goal of steering Palm Bay through a pivotal transition, the City Council has officially named Scott Morgan as Interim City Manager. The appointment was confirmed during a special council meeting on December 11, 2024, at 6:00 PM. The session, led by Mayor Rob Medina, focused on finalizing the terms of Morgan's employment contract, which outlines his duties, compensation, and the timeline for his tenure.

Contract Details

The terms of Scott Morgan’s contract as Interim City Manager are as follows:

• Term: The contract runs until April 30, 2025, with a potential extension to June 30, 2025, if necessary and mutually agreed upon.

• Salary: Morgan’s annualized salary is set at $240,000, prorated for the duration of his service.

• Leave and Benefits: He will receive 60 hours of administrative leave as a lump sum, with no payout for unused leave. Morgan will not be entitled to sick leave, vacation leave, or a severance package.

• Retirement Contributions: While Morgan will not receive pension contributions, the city will make a contribution to its unfunded liability as required by the city’s pension attorney.

• Other Provisions: Morgan will have access to a city-issued vehicle, cellphone, and computer to perform his duties. Indemnification will be provided in case of legal action taken against him while serving as Interim City Manager.

Public Commentary

Two members of the public provided comments on the appointment:

• Bill Batten welcomed Morgan and praised his reputation. Batten also proposed that former Interim City Manager Mr. Robinson should be retroactively compensated at a similar daily rate, which he estimated at $22,000.

• Phil Weinberg described Morgan as “the right man, in the right place, for the right job,” commending the council on their decision.

Council Deliberation and Decision

The council’s discussion on the contract was brief. Mayor Medina clarified that any extension of Morgan’s contract would require mutual agreement but would not necessarily need formal council approval.

Councilman Comments

• Councilman Hammer expressed his satisfaction with Morgan’s early engagement, stating he had "thoroughly enjoyed" his interactions with Morgan and was confident in his capacity to fulfill the city’s needs.

With a motion by Councilman Langevin, seconded by Mayor Medina, the council approved the contract by a unanimous 4-0 vote.

Morgan’s Remarks

Following the approval, Scott Morgan delivered remarks to the council and community. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to do his best for Palm Bay’s residents and city staff. Morgan’s comments reflected humility and a commitment to community service.

Experience and Reputation

Scott Morgan brings over three decades of municipal leadership experience to Palm Bay. He is best known for his 13-year tenure as City Manager of West Melbourne, where he spearheaded transformative initiatives in financial stability, infrastructure modernization, and community redevelopment. During his leadership, West Melbourne achieved balanced budgets, built financial reserves, and reduced debt while maintaining one of the lowest ad valorem tax rates in Brevard County. Morgan’s prudent financial strategies earned the city credit rating upgrades, reflecting the improved financial health and stability under his guidance.

Morgan’s track record extends beyond financial acumen. He oversaw major infrastructure projects such as septic-to-sewer conversions, new sewer mains, and critical upgrades to aging lift stations. His focus on sustainable development and operational efficiency was widely regarded as a model for effective municipal governance. Community members and government colleagues frequently praised his collaborative leadership style and ability to unify diverse stakeholders toward shared goals.

His career in public service began with roles in California, where he held senior administrative positions in cities such as Orange and Anderson. He was instrumental in the restoration of Southern California’s oldest courthouse, an award-winning preservation project that continues to serve as a historical landmark and film location. This history of impactful leadership and community development now positions him as a valuable asset for Palm Bay during a critical period of transition.

Closing and Next Steps

The meeting adjourned shortly after Morgan’s remarks. Morgan’s appointment marks a new chapter for Palm Bay as he steps into the role of Interim City Manager. With his extensive experience in municipal leadership, including his 13-year tenure as City Manager of West Melbourne, residents and council members alike anticipate positive progress under his guidance.

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