The Palm Coast City Council workshop began at 6 pm on March 11th, with Mayor Norris providing an update on Ray Stevens’ health condition.
Several residents spoke about the proposed building moratorium. Neftali De Jesus, a business owner, expressed concerns about constitutional rights and property owners’ interests. Candy Stevens supported the moratorium, citing infrastructure and flooding issues. Bob Hannon worried about the impact on small businesses. Various other residents discussed topics including swimming pool accessibility, cell phone coverage, and dangerous dog regulations.
The council then discussed the city manager search with Doug Thomas from Strategic Government Resources (SGR). The council reviewed and ranked 10 semifinalists, ultimately selecting five finalists. The selected candidates included Lee Smith, Paul Trombino, Richard Hough, Michael Reese, and Sonia Alves-Viveros.
The meeting continued with a presentation on the updated wireless master plan. Doug and Estelle Linz presented the plan, which includes existing and proposed cell tower locations throughout Palm Coast. The council discussed specific locations, particularly controversial sites near Palm Harbor Golf Course and the new Fire Station 22.
The meeting ended with a shocking twist. Councilman Gambaro raised concerns about the Mayor’s alleged attempts to direct staff dismissals. The council discussed the need for an independent investigation into these allegations. Norris vehemently denied the accusations brought on by Gambaro and Acting City Manager Lauren Johnson, who stated on record that the conversation happened exactly as Gambaro described. Gambaro raised concerns for a toxic work environment in addition to the claim that Norris violated the city charter.
