The Stuart City Commission voted to terminate the city manager without cause, marking a significant change in municipal leadership and sparking debate about transparency and governance in Stuart. The decision to dismiss the city manager, who had served the city for nearly two decades, has drawn attention to the processes and impacts of city manager terminations in Florida.

Stuart City Manager Terminated Without Cause

On October 27, 2025, the Stuart City Commission voted 3-2 to remove the city manager from office without cause, according to official city records. The action followed weeks of public discussion, speculation, and divided opinions among commissioners and residents.

Two commissioners opposed the dismissal, raising concerns about staff morale and the fairness of the process. The decision was made during a public meeting, with significant community input both supporting and opposing the termination.

Background and Reasons for Dismissal

The city manager had held various roles in Stuart, including mayor, city commissioner, and city attorney, before serving as city manager for approximately twenty years. The termination was initiated by a commissioner who raised concerns about the city manager’s recent decision-making.

According to city commission records, issues cited included controversial agenda items, a recent traffic stop involving the city manager, and alleged misrepresentation of information related to a major rail project. These concerns were discussed in public meetings and contributed to the decision to move forward with termination.

Personnel File and HR Complaints

After the vote, the City of Stuart released portions of the city manager’s personnel file. The records included past human resources complaints, such as disputes over merit pay and allegations of unprofessional conduct. However, no formal disciplinary actions were recorded in the file, according to city officials.

The city manager denied any wrongdoing and described the termination process as lacking transparency and due process. The manager also argued that the release of HR complaints could discourage future reporting of workplace issues.

Severance and Interim Leadership

Under the terms of the employment contract, the City of Stuart is required to pay the dismissed city manager 20 weeks of severance. This payment totals between $85,000 and $102,200, based on a recent annual salary of $265,000, according to city finance records.

The commission appointed the finance director as interim city manager while a permanent replacement is considered. Further discussions regarding the selection of a new city manager are scheduled for November.

Potential Legal Action

The dismissed city manager indicated the possibility of legal action if personnel records continue to be publicized. Concerns were raised that the release of unresolved or minor HR complaints could undermine trust in internal processes and deter employees from reporting legitimate concerns, according to expert analysis of municipal HR practices.

Impacts on Stuart City Government

According to expert perspectives, dismissals of city managers without cause are legally permissible in Florida. However, such decisions can destabilize municipal operations, affect staff morale, and raise questions about governance and transparency.

Experts note that the public airing of HR complaints, especially those not resulting in formal disciplinary action, can have negative effects on employee trust and overall workplace culture. The situation in Stuart highlights ongoing debates about the appropriate boundaries between elected officials and administrative staff in local government.

Governance and Transparency Concerns

The broader context of the dismissal includes concerns that political motivations or personal disputes may sometimes influence high-profile personnel decisions in municipal government. Observers point to the importance of clear processes and transparency in maintaining public trust and effective administration.

City officials have not yet announced a timeline for hiring a permanent city manager. Details may be updated as the commission continues its discussions and the situation develops.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stuart City Manager Termination

What led to the Stuart city manager’s termination?

The Stuart City Commission voted to terminate the city manager without cause after concerns were raised about decision-making, controversial agenda items, and alleged misrepresentation of issues. Official records show the decision followed weeks of public debate and divided opinions among commissioners.

How much severance will the former city manager receive?

According to the city manager’s contract, the City of Stuart must pay 20 weeks of severance, totaling between $85,000 and $102,200, based on the most recent annual salary.

Are city manager dismissals without cause allowed in Florida?

Yes, Florida law allows city commissions to terminate city managers without cause, as long as contractual terms are followed. Experts note this can sometimes impact staff morale and city operations.

Can personnel records be released to the public after a termination?

City personnel records, including HR complaints, can be released under Florida’s public records laws. However, experts warn that making unresolved or minor complaints public may discourage employees from reporting workplace issues.

Where are future city commission discussions about the city manager scheduled?

Further discussions about selecting a permanent city manager will take place at upcoming Stuart City Commission meetings. City officials have not yet set a specific date for a final decision.