Donald Barber

The meeting included discussions on reappointing the Planning and Zoning Board members and the issuance of a Request for Qualifications for a debt reduction and consolidation loan of approximately $1.5 million. Proclamations were issued for Professional Municipal Clerks Week and National Public Works Week. Staff and department updates were provided, and the Commission reviewed various administrative and financial matters.

The ceremony included a commencement address regarding public service and local leadership, followed by the recognition of outgoing commissioners. Key agenda items included the formal presentation of election results and certification of commission seats, the administration of oaths of office for newly elected commissioners, and remarks from the incoming commissioners. The event also provided opportunities for ceremonial photographs and included a designated period for public participation.

Key discussions and actions for this meeting include motions and actions regarding Mayor and Vice Mayor appointments for 2026. The consent agenda involved approving bill payments and transaction lists for October 2025 and November 2025 (previously tabled), as well as December 2025. Public discussion covered the FY24 AUDIT Report from Powell & Jones, CPA. Old business focused on the employment contract for the Temporary Part-Time City Manager. New business items included Ameris Banking Authorization by Resolution, review and action on the Surplus Equipment List 2026, Surplus Property List 2026, Alachua County Commission WSPP FY23 Funds Replacement Plan of Action, and discussion/action on the results of the Part-Time Permanent City Manager Commission Interviews.

The meeting commenced with a discussion concerning the absence of an agenda and the capacity of the current Interim City Manager to fulfill her duties. Following citizen comments, the Commission debated the process for selecting a permanent part-time City Manager and the need to hire an immediate Interim City Manager due to FMLA considerations for the current interim manager. A motion was passed directing the City Attorney to expedite the return of application packets and scoring sheets so that the Commission could vote on candidates during the January 12, 2026 meeting. A subsequent motion to hire John Martin as a Part-Time Interim City Manager was presented but later rescinded. Consensus was reached to schedule a Special Meeting on January 12, 2026, specifically to decide on hiring a Part-Time Interim City Manager. The City Attorney also provided an update on JLAC issues before the meeting adjourned.

The City Commission meeting addressed several items, including the adoption of the agenda with two added items concerning the Public Works Yard incident and the Interim City Manager hiring update. The consent agenda was adopted despite questions regarding bill payments. Key discussions included a vote to increase water rates, where one commissioner dissented, and a unanimous vote to increase solid waste rates. The commission discussed the Bethlehem Church letter regarding surplus property, agreeing to obtain an appraisal. New business included approving a license agreement with Alachua County Supervisor of Elections for a polling place, which was amended to include the City election. The commission also approved the renewal agreement for the Interim City Manager, with an amendment specifying the contract termination upon hiring a Permanent Part-Time City Manager, again with one dissenting vote. Discussions covered an incident at the Public Works facility regarding commissioner access, the status of the search for a Permanent Part-Time Manager, and various reports from the City Attorney and Commissioners. A special meeting for December 15, 2025, was confirmed.