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Palm Bay Live Hosts Key Political Voices Ahead of Local Election

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Palm Bay, Fla. — Palm Bay Live will host a series of live interviews this week with two candidates running for Florida House District 32 and a former deputy police chief who has publicly criticized city leadership and department culture.

Republican Brian Hodgers and Democrat Juan Hinojosa are competing to represent District 32 in the Florida House of Representatives. The interviews are intended to give local residents a closer look at the candidates’ platforms and priorities ahead of the primary election.

Hodgers, a conservative businessman and lifelong Brevard County resident, has made lowering property taxes, tackling insurance costs, protecting Florida’s waterways, and advocating for school choice central to his campaign. He supports Governor DeSantis and President Trump’s America First agenda. His interview will air on Thursday, May 15 at 9 p.m.

Hinojosa, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and security officer at Northrop Grumman, brings three decades of military service to the table. His platform focuses on expanding Medicaid, curbing corporate influence in Tallahassee, protecting reproductive rights, and easing the burden of rising home and auto insurance rates. His interview will be Saturday, May 17 at 9 a.m.

Former Deputy Police Chief Lance Fisher will also join Palm Bay Live for an exclusive interview on Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m., where he’ll speak about his two-decade career in law enforcement and his highly publicized departure from the Palm Bay Police Department. Fisher has raised concerns about what he describes as a toxic internal culture, claiming the department prioritized loyalty over accountability and mishandled officers’ mental health needs. Public records show the city authorized an outside law firm to review allegations related to the department’s leadership, but that process ended without any formal findings. His interview comes after the Palm Bay City Council passed a controversial 3–2 vote restricting public comment livestreams, an effort some believe was prompted by Fischer’s consistent criticism of city leadership at council meetings.

All interviews will be streamed live on Palm Bay Live’s YouTube and Facebook pages, and available for replay afterward.

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Palm Bay Council Approves Changes to Public Comment Policy in 3–2 Vote

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Palm Bay City Council narrowly passed a revised set of policies on public comments and meeting procedures at Thursday’s meeting, voting 3–2 in favor of a proposal introduced by Deputy Mayor Mike Jaffe. The motion limits livestream coverage of public comments and tightens rules around visual presentations during council meetings, prompting fierce backlash from several residents who warned the move could infringe on free speech.

The approved measure, which Jaffe described as a “reduction” of the original policy overhaul he initially floated, amends section 8 of the council’s procedures and removes livestreaming for the non-agenda public comment portion of meetings. “There’s no law that requires us to provide any visual anything,” Jaffe said, defending the 48-hour submission window for public presentations as necessary due to “limited staff resources.”

The change follows concerns over past use of obscene language and potentially unfiltered visual material during council meetings, which are broadcast live on government-access television and online platforms. Jaffe and others cited potential Federal Communications Commission (FCC) violations and instances of HIPAA-protected information being shared as justification for the restrictions.

However, critics argued the proposed revisions would effectively stifle dissent. “Every time this council wants to streamline meetings, it’s at the cost of citizens’ rights to speak,” said one resident. He warned that vague language in the policy could allow presiding officers to selectively silence criticism under the guise of maintaining order.

Another speaker cited specific policy sections to argue that citizens were already being deprived of rights guaranteed in the council’s own rules. “Where’s my redress?” he asked, referring to the lack of options to revise or resubmit rejected visual materials.

Councilman Johnson expressed discomfort with the current policy draft and said he supported removing the 48-hour visual submission requirement. “There’s been times where people have put my face up there… that’s what it is. We signed up for it,” Johnson said, acknowledging the cost of public office but advocating for openness.

Councilman Langevin pushed back against limiting speaking time for councilmembers. “We are the council. This is the council meeting. We’re here to discuss important issues,” he said, rejecting a proposed three-minute speaking cap for councilmembers.

In the end, Jaffe made a motion to approve only section 8 of the proposed revisions and to limit livestreaming for non-agenda public comments. The motion passed 3–2, with Jaffe, Langevin, and Johnson in favor, and Medina and Hammer opposed.

Watch the meeting on our YouTube channel:https://youtube.com/live/nCPZWcYZnyw?feature=share

 

Palm bay live_ Mike Jaffe

Palm Bay deputy mayor seeks tighter rules on public comments, meeting broadcasts

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Palm Bay, Fla. — Palm Bay’s deputy mayor is pushing a policy overhaul that would bar last-minute PowerPoint presentations and keep the city’s cable cameras dark during the open-mic portion of council meetings.

Deputy Mayor Mike Jaffe has asked colleagues to amend three sections of the City Council’s Policies and Procedures “to streamline meetings and to reduce risks of purposeful or inadvertent violations” of Federal Communications Commission indecency rules, according to a legislative memorandum dated May 1. The language tracks restrictions the Brevard County School Board adopted earlier this year.

What the draft says

  • Video blackout: The city’s television feed would not air the call to order, invocation, pledge, roll call, proclamations, recognitions or the non-agenda public-comment segment. Broadcasting would begin with “Announcements” and continue through adjournment.

  • Forty-eight-hour file deadline: Residents planning to use electronic slides, audio or video must submit files to the city clerk 48 hours before the meeting for screening. The current deadline is 2 p.m. on meeting day.

  • Expanded gavel powers: The presiding officer could interrupt, warn or end statements deemed “profane,” “obscene,” “inciting,” “irrelevant” or otherwise disruptive. Profanity is defined as “vulgar and commonly considered expletives,” while incitement is language “likely to produce imminent lawless action.”

  • Decorum rule: Yelling, shouting or side conversations could trigger a warning, removal or recess if order cannot be restored.

  • Agenda shuffle: The non-agenda public-comment slot would move earlier, preceding proclamations and recognitions. 

City staff list the fiscal impact as none. Any changes would take effect immediately if approved.

Early public reaction

A Palm Bay Live Facebook poll attracted nearly 400 responses. Roughly 93 percent said they oppose the changes, 4 percent expressed support, and the remainder were undecided. 

Commenters voiced concern that the blackout could mute uncomfortable criticism. “They don’t want their misdeeds advertised,” one resident wrote. Another called the revisions “an unconstitutional censorship measure,” while others warned the 48-hour requirement could deter working residents from speaking.

Next step

Council members will debate the amendments Thursday at 6 p.m. in City Hall, 120 Malabar Road. Anyone wishing to address the issue must submit an orange public-comment card before the item is called.

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Florida Lawmakers Consider Sweeping Changes to Taxes, Housing, Teen Labor Laws, and Guns

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Palm Bay, Fla. — With just about a month left in the legislative session, Florida lawmakers are weighing bold proposals that could reshape the state’s tax system, override local land-use regulations, and relax child labor protections and revisit gun laws that were enacted after the Parkland school shooting.. Among the most closely watched bills are Gov. Ron DeSantis’s proposed property tax overhaul, House Bill 943 aimed at expanding affordable housing development, House Bill 759 concerning long gun purchases, and Senate Bill 918, which would loosen work restrictions for minors.

DeSantis Pitches Property Tax Overhaul

Gov. Ron DeSantis is calling for an end to Florida’s state-imposed property taxes, proposing a $1,000 tax break for homestead property owners in place of a $5 billion sales tax cut plan pushed by House Speaker Daniel Perez.

The governor recently unveiled the proposal during a news conference in Orlando, urging lawmakers to refocus the state’s tax relief efforts on residents rather than tourists.

“I want Canadian tourists and Brazilian tourists subsidizing the state and making it so Florida residents pay less taxes,” DeSantis said.

The plan would eliminate the “required local effort” — the portion of property taxes dedicated to school funding — and use state reserves to fill the gap for at least one year. Long-term changes would require a constitutional amendment, which DeSantis hopes to place on the November 2026 ballot.

While the House supports broader sales tax cuts, Senate leaders have expressed caution, noting potential future deficits. Lawmakers must finalize the state budget before the session ends on May 2.

HB 943 Would Expand State Control Over Housing

Meanwhile, in the House, Rep. Vicki Lopez, R-Miami, is spearheading legislation to expand the scope of the Live Local Act, a 2023 law that encourages developers to build affordable housing by bypassing local zoning restrictions. House Bill 943 would further limit the authority of local governments in regulating land use for housing projects.

The bill would require cities and counties to allow multifamily and mixed-use housing on land owned by religious institutions, school boards, and local governments. It also prohibits local officials from reducing height, lot size, or density below the maximums already permitted in a given area.

Municipalities would be barred from imposing new permit fees or delaying approvals through zoning moratoriums. Under HB 943, any attempt to restrict such developments would be considered preempted by state law.

Supporters argue the bill will increase housing supply and reduce construction delays, while critics say it strips local communities of decision-making power and ignores infrastructure concerns.

Senate Panel Advances Controversial Teen Labor Bill

A Florida Senate committee has also advanced legislation that would ease work restrictions for teens. Senate Bill 918 proposes eliminating current limits on how many hours 16- and 17-year-olds can work during the school year, including caps on daily hours and mandated breaks.

The bill would also remove restrictions for 14- and 15-year-olds who are homeschooled, attend virtual school, or have already completed high school, allowing them to work overnight shifts.

Supporters of the bill say it aligns state law with federal standards and increases flexibility for families and businesses facing worker shortages. Critics, however, warn that it could increase risks for teen workers, including academic disruption, fatigue, and potential exploitation — particularly in industries with fast-paced or late-night work.

The bill narrowly passed its first committee stop in the Senate and still faces additional review before it could reach the floor. If signed into law, the changes would take effect July 1.

House Advances Bill to Lower Age for Long Gun Purchases

Florida lawmakers are also revisiting gun legislation passed in the aftermath of the 2018 Parkland school shooting. The Florida House recently approved House Bill 759, which would lower the minimum age to purchase rifles and shotguns from 21 to 18. The vote passed 78-34.

The current age restriction was enacted under the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, passed just weeks after a 19-year-old gunman killed 17 people at the Parkland high school. Supporters of HB 759 argue that 18-year-olds already carry significant responsibilities, such as military service and jury duty, and should not be barred from purchasing firearms.

Critics, including Democratic lawmakers and gun safety advocates, point to recent court rulings upholding the constitutionality of the existing age limit. They also warn that repealing the law could undermine public safety and dishonor the memory of the Parkland victims.

While the House has passed similar measures in recent years, the Senate has so far declined to take them up. This year may be no different, as the Senate companion bill has yet to receive a committee hearing. Senate leadership has not committed to supporting the proposal, and its future remains uncertain.

Gov. DeSantis, however, has signaled support for rolling back the age requirement, as part of his broader push to expand Second Amendment protections in the state.

What’s Next

With the legislative session set to end May 2, lawmakers are expected to intensify negotiations over tax policy, housing reform, and labor law changes. Voters and stakeholders are closely monitoring how these proposals might affect local autonomy, economic development, and protections for vulnerable populations.

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Randy Fine Wins Congressional Seat, GOP Sweeps Brevard’s Special Elections

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Palm Bay, Fla. – Republican State Sen. Randy Fine secured a high-stakes victory Tuesday night in Florida’s 6th Congressional District, defeating Democrat Josh Weil in a closely watched special election that helps Republicans widen their narrow House majority.

Fine, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, will replace former Congressman Mike Waltz, who vacated the seat to become Trump’s National Security Advisor. Despite being heavily outspent by his opponent—Weil raised nearly $10 million to Fine’s under $1 million—outside GOP-aligned groups invested late in the race, spending roughly $1 million on last-minute ads that helped propel Fine to victory.

The race marked the closest contest the district has seen since 2018, though it remains a Republican stronghold. Trump carried the district by 30 points in 2024, and Waltz consistently won with over 60% of the vote.

Fine’s win not only maintains GOP control of the seat but also expands the party’s slim five-vote majority in the U.S. House by one additional seat.

In a post-election poll conducted by Palm Bay Live, just 19% of respondents said they were happy with the outcome of the election, while 34% said they were not. The remaining participants either chose not to answer or selected “other.”

Hodgers Edges Out GOP Rivals in House District 32

In the Republican primary for Florida House District 32, Brian Hodgers narrowly topped opponents Bob White and Dr. Terry Cronin in a three-way race. With all 58 precincts reporting, Hodgers led with 5,640 votes (35.02%), followed closely by White with 5,328 (33.08%) and Cronin with 5,138 (31.9%).

The seat was vacated when Rep. Debbie Mayfield resigned to run for Senate District 19, a seat she previously held before term limits. Hodgers, a real estate broker and insurance agent from Viera, emphasized insurance reform and lower property taxes during the campaign. He will face Democrat Juan Hinojosa in the June 10 general election.

Mayfield Poised to Return to Florida Senate

In the GOP primary for Senate District 19, former State Sen. Debbie Mayfield won decisively, earning 60.81% of the vote. Her three opponents, Mark Lightner III (16.11%), Tim Thomas (13.34%), and Marcie Adkins (9.74%), trailed significantly.

Mayfield previously served in the Senate from 2016 to 2024 and returned to the Florida House after reaching the Senate’s term limit. A Florida Supreme Court ruling later clarified that her brief absence made her eligible to seek her former seat again. She now moves on to face Democrat Vance Ahrens in June.

Mayfield’s campaign raised and spent more than all three opponents combined, much of it coming from Tallahassee-based political committees. With over 16 years of experience in the Legislature and strong name recognition, Mayfield was widely expected to win.

What’s Next

With Tuesday’s results, the Brevard GOP held onto all contested seats in a major night of legislative reshuffling. The outcomes set up high-profile general election contests in both House District 32 and Senate District 19 on June 10, where insurance, healthcare, and local infrastructure remain top issues for voters.

Key Dates for Voters:

  • Early Voting (General Election): May 31 – June 7

  • Election Day: June 10

  • More Info: VoteBrevard.gov or call (321) 290-VOTE

Palm Bay Live will continue to provide election coverage as we move toward the June 10 general election.

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Meet Candidate #7: Gregg Lynk, Former Palm Bay City Manager Returns as Finalist

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Palm Bay, FL – Gregg Lynk, who served as Palm Bay’s City Manager from 2015 to 2018, is seeking a return to the role he once held during one of the most transformative periods in the city’s recent history.

Lynk, a Palm Bay resident and seasoned executive from both the public and private sectors, is credited with a dramatic overhaul of city infrastructure and finances during his tenure. Among his key accomplishments was the development and execution of a $60 million, 10-year plan to address decades of deferred maintenance of critical city infrastructure. The plan emerged as a major milestone in the city’s long-standing struggle with outdated culverts and flooding issues, with city staff citing his leadership as instrumental in its passage.

Under Lynk’s leadership, Palm Bay also saw a surge in economic development. He set a three-year target of $60 million in new commercial development but nearly doubled that figure, bringing in $108 million. Lynk also led efforts to refinance city bonds, resulting in millions in savings for taxpayers, improved the city’s bond rating, and implemented a self-funded employee healthcare model that reportedly saved the city over $10 million. He renegotiated public safety contracts, reducing pension liabilities by 15%, and cut administrative liabilities in other benefit categories by 60%.

Despite these accomplishments, Lynk’s tenure came to an abrupt end in 2018 when City Council voted 3-2 to terminate his contract. Councilman Kenny Johnson cast the deciding vote in favor of Lynk’s removal. 

However, during the March 20 City Council meeting, Johnson named Lynk as one of his top choices to return as City Manager, along with Deputy Mayor Jaffe and Councilman Langevin. His shift has reignited public discussion around Lynk’s legacy and the political dynamics that shaped his departure. Johnson’s support comes alongside growing recognition from other city leaders and former staff, many of whom praised Lynk’s leadership, financial acumen, and ability to motivate teams.

In reference interviews conducted by the city’s search consultant, former Fire Chief Jim Stables described Lynk as “a consummate professional. ”Former Deputy Mayor Tres Holton and former Councilmember Harry Santiago praised Lynk’s ability to execute bold initiatives and maintain strong ties to the community, while longtime city staff credited him with boosting morale, fostering collaboration, and showing up to nearly every community event.

Palm Bay Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Nancy Peltonen also noted Lynk’s active role in supporting local businesses and improving communication between City Hall and stakeholders. “He was a cheerleader for the area,” she said, highlighting his responsiveness and hands-on approach to governance.

Lynk’s background check revealed a 1994 DWI conviction and a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filed in 2011, both of which were disclosed and addressed during his original hiring process. In a personal statement submitted to the city, Lynk explained that the bankruptcy followed years of medical expenses while caring for his late wife during her battle with ovarian cancer. “While my wife was still alive, we agreed… that the best course of action for the family to get out of the bottomless pit of debt and keep our home would be to declare bankruptcy,” he wrote.

Despite political headwinds and personal challenges, Lynk has maintained a strong base of support from former colleagues and residents. Several past council members have publicly expressed regret over his 2018 dismissal, and references compiled by the city describe him as innovative, resolute, and deeply committed to the community.

If selected again, Lynk says he is ready to “hit the ground running” and lead the city through its next phase of growth. “This is my home,” he wrote in his cover letter. “Palm Bay can be the shining star of Brevard.”

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Meet Candidate #6 for Palm Bay City Manager: Howard W. Brown, Jr. Combines Strategic Vision with Ground-Level Results

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Palm Bay, FL – With a dynamic career spanning more than two decades in public administration, Howard W. Brown, Jr. brings to the table a wealth of experience in city management, redevelopment, and community-focused leadership. Currently CEO and Founder of Local Government Consulting Group, LLC, Brown has served as interim manager in several municipalities across Florida and Georgia, helping guide cities through periods of transition with transparency, fiscal responsibility, and long-term planning.

Brown was selected as one of the top finalists for Palm Bay City Manager by Mayor Rob Medina and Councilman Randy Langevin during the March 20 City Council meeting.

Most recently, Brown served as Interim City Manager in East Point, GA, where he helped oversee a $209 million operating budget while prioritizing infrastructure investment and service delivery. As Village Manager of Indiantown, FL from 2019 to 2023, he led transformative efforts that saved taxpayers millions, including negotiating a zero-interest, 30-year interlocal agreement for Fire Rescue Services and acquiring a private water and sewer utility, with 80% of the loan subsequently forgiven.

Brown’s leadership philosophy is rooted in empowering communities through sustainable growth. As City Manager of Muskogee, Oklahoma, he helped broker a land swap that resulted in both a juvenile detention center and over a million square feet of new commercial development. While City Manager of Bell, California, he led the city through its first-ever charter code review and helped stabilize finances despite revenue shortfalls.

His expertise extends to urban planning and redevelopment: Brown is an AICP Certified Urban Planner and previously served as a sub-consultant in Miami-Dade County, supporting community revitalization in NW 7th Avenue and NW 79th Street CRAs. In Opa-Locka, he implemented the city’s first Certificate of Use program, generating over $1 million in annual revenue.

Brown holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of West Florida and a Bachelor’s in Criminology from Florida State University. He is also a graduate of Harvard University’s Executive Program for State and Local Government. A Credentialed Manager with ICMA, he maintains active memberships in ICMA, FCCMA, APA, and AICP.

In his letter to Palm Bay officials, Brown wrote:

“Palm Bay’s vision of fostering economic prosperity, public safety, and quality infrastructure aligns closely with my leadership philosophy… I offer a strategic, collaborative, and forward-thinking approach to leadership.”

Brown will participate in the public interviews at Palm Bay City Hall on March 29, with the final selection for City Manager expected by April 17.

Palm Bay Live will continue its coverage of the eight finalists to ensure residents are informed ahead of this critical city leadership decision.

Read the prior articles:

Meet Candidate #5 for Palm Bay City Manager: William Lawrence Offers Deep Roots in Public Service and a Proven Record in Florida Communities 

Meet Candidate #4 for Palm Bay City Manager: Ricardo J. Mendez Brings Over 30 Years of Government, Finance, and Infrastructure Leadership

Meet Candidate #3 for Palm Bay City Manager: Mark Sohaney Brings Decades of Military Leadership and Infrastructure Expertise

Meet Candidate #2 for Palm Bay City Manager: Matthew Thomas Morton Brings Innovation-Focused Leadership and Municipal Experience

Meet Candidate #1 for Palm Bay City Manager: Jason Brian Davis Brings Two Decades of Government Leadership

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Meet Candidate #5 for Palm Bay City Manager: William Lawrence Offers Deep Roots in Public Service and a Proven Record in Florida Communities 

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Palm Bay, FL – William R. Lawrence brings over 37 years of experience in public service, spanning law enforcement and municipal leadership, making him one of the most seasoned candidates in Palm Bay’s search for its next City Manager. From police officer to police chief to city manager, Lawrence has dedicated his career to enhancing the quality of life in the communities he’s served across Maine and Florida.

Lawrence currently serves as Town Manager of Lady Lake, Florida, where he oversees a $42 million budget and leads a full-service municipality of 120 employees. His recent accomplishments include managing major infrastructure projects such as a $20 million wastewater expansion, new park development, and a $5 million library expansion. Under his leadership, Lady Lake approved Hammock Oaks, a residential development project bringing over 4,000 housing units to the area.

Before Lady Lake, Lawrence served as City Manager in Bowling Green, where he coordinated millions in state and federal funding for wastewater, water, parks, and infrastructure projects. He also led planning efforts for new community facilities and oversaw the installation of advanced water treatment systems.

His earlier municipal leadership includes time as Town Manager in Warren and Howland, Maine, where he improved financial stability, eliminated the need for tax anticipation notes, and led capital and utility projects. In Howland, he worked with the Penobscot River Restoration Trust to complete an $18 million fish bypass on the Piscataquis River, allowing the Atlantic Salmon to migrate up the river. 

Lawrence’s foundation in law enforcement includes years with the Bangor Police Department and Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office, where he served as a detective and patrol lieutenant. This unique blend of public safety and municipal administration gives him a holistic understanding of community needs.

He holds a degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Maine and has completed advanced executive leadership training through the Maine Criminal Justice Academy and Northwestern Traffic Institute. He is a member of the Florida League of Cities, the Lake County League of Cities, the Florida City and County Management Association (FCCMA), and the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).

In his application to Palm Bay, Lawrence emphasized his relationship-focused leadership style, strategic thinking, and fiscal discipline.

“I firmly believe that the City Manager should be deeply embedded in the community fabric,” he wrote. “I am passionate about fostering transparency, trust, and strong engagement with both elected officials and residents.”

Lawrence, who was one of the finalists chosen by Councilman Hammer and Councilman Langevin, resides in Leesburg and will participate in public interviews on March 29 at Palm Bay City Hall. A final selection is expected by April 17.

Palm Bay Live will continue sharing candidate profiles to help residents get to know the individuals vying to lead their city.

Read Prior articles here:

Meet Candidate #4 for Palm Bay City Manager: Ricardo J. Mendez Brings Over 30 Years of Government, Finance, and Infrastructure Leadership

Meet Candidate #3 for Palm Bay City Manager: Mark Sohaney Brings Decades of Military Leadership and Infrastructure Expertise

Meet Candidate #2 for Palm Bay City Manager: Matthew Thomas Morton Brings Innovation-Focused Leadership and Municipal Experience

Meet Candidate #1 for Palm Bay City Manager: Jason Brian Davis Brings Two Decades of Government Leadership

 

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Meet Candidate #4 for Palm Bay City Manager: Ricardo J. Mendez Brings Over 30 Years of Government, Finance, and Infrastructure Leadership

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Palm Bay, FL – With over 30 years of experience in both public and private sector leadership, Ricardo J. Mendez is one of eight finalists in Palm Bay’s search for a new City Manager. A credentialed ICMA professional, registered civil engineer, and Certified Government Financial Manager, Mendez has built a career around reorganizing municipal operations, leading financial recoveries, and managing complex infrastructure programs valued in the billions.

Most recently, Mendez served as Assistant City Administrator for West Palm Beach, where he oversaw departments including utilities, engineering, public works, planning, building, zoning, and code enforcement. During his tenure, he helped the city navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while delivering $45 million in infrastructure improvements, balancing a $194 million general fund budget, and leading the city to its highest-ever collection in business tax revenue. He also played a key role in affordable housing initiatives, neighborhood revitalization, and public safety improvements.

Prior to that, Mendez served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer for the City of Harrisburg, PA, where he implemented one of the most successful municipal financial recovery plans in the country. His leadership helped the city emerge from state receivership in under three years and earned the GFOA Budget Award for excellence in financial reporting in 2013. During that time, he managed over 130 recovery initiatives across 20 departments, completed multiple years of delayed financial audits, and avoided municipal bankruptcy.

Mendez has also held senior leadership roles in Miami Beach, Sweetwater, and Miami-Dade County, as well as with the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Palm Beach County School District, managing infrastructure, budgeting, and compliance across multi-jurisdictional operations. His background includes overseeing capital programs as large as $2 billion, directing water and sewer plant operations, and negotiating complex agreements with state and federal agencies including the EPA and DOJ.

He holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Miami and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Florida International University. He is an ICMA-Credentialed Manager, a Certified Government Financial Manager, and a Registered Professional Engineer.

In his cover letter to Palm Bay officials, Mendez wrote:

“I became a professional City Manager by accomplishing a complete career track in the county and municipal government… I bring hands-on expertise in community affairs, planning, operational analysis, financial recovery, and infrastructure delivery.”

Mendez, who was one of the finalists supported by Deputy Mayor Jaffee and Councilman Johnson, currently resides in Miami and will participate in public interviews at Palm Bay City Hall on March 29. The City Council is expected to make a final selection and extend a formal offer by April 17.

Palm Bay Live will continue publishing candidate profiles to help residents learn more about the finalists ahead of the interviews.

 

 

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Meet Candidate #2 for Palm Bay City Manager: Matthew Thomas Morton Brings Innovation-Focused Leadership and Municipal Experience

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Palm Bay, FL – Matthew Thomas Morton, one of the eight finalists selected for public interviews in Palm Bay’s City Manager search, offers more than 25 years of public and private sector leadership, with a career defined by innovation, strategic partnerships, and municipal reform.

Morton previously served as City Manager of Palm Coast, FL, where he led a city of over 100,000 residents. His tenure was marked by the launch of MedNexus, a university-based public-private partnership focused on healthcare innovation, and the implementation of a new Salesforce-based CRM system that enhanced resident engagement and operational performance. He also navigated the city through the COVID-19 pandemic with a digital-first continuity strategy, resulting in less than 5% disruption to municipal services.

Morton resigned as Palm Coast’s city manager in May 2021, just days after then-Mayor Milissa Holland also stepped down. His resignation followed reports of “unruly” council meetings and broader public tension, according to local news coverage. At a subsequent council meeting, Councilman Victor Barbosa attempted to initiate Morton’s termination, citing allegations of misconduct. The motion was not seconded and ultimately failed. 

Prior to Palm Coast, Morton served as City Administrator in Duvall, WA, and Cle Elum, WA, where he gained extensive experience in infrastructure planning, labor negotiations, and emergency management. His achievements include major cost savings through process reengineering, expanding broadband and fiber access, and reorganizing city departments to improve efficiency.

Morton began his government career in Yakima County, WA, where he led strategic process reengineering efforts and coordinated interdisciplinary environmental and land use projects. He also co-chaired negotiations during union contract talks and helped modernize permitting systems.

Currently, Morton serves as an executive for land acquisition and development with Perihelion Group Consulting, LLC, and is also the Co-Founder and CEO of Flagler Veterans Village, a nonprofit providing transitional housing and support services for veterans in Flagler County.

He holds an Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA) from the University of South Dakota and completed senior executive training at Harvard Kennedy School. His academic background also includes a Bachelor’s in Geography and Land Use Planning from Central Washington University, and continuing education in leadership, emergency response, and urban development. Morton is an ICMA-Credentialed Manager and a Florida licensed real estate professional.

In his application, Morton wrote:

“I have exceptional experience in strategic process reorganization with a keen focus on positioning our people and resources to best accomplish the tasks before us today, while also effectively preparing to meet the challenges of the future.”

He emphasized core values such as honesty, integrity, openness, and courage as guiding principles in both his professional leadership and personal conduct.

Morton was among the top picks of Mayor Medina, Deputy Mayor Jaffe, and Councilman Hammer during the March 20 City Council meeting, which ultimately narrowed the candidate pool to eight finalists. 

Morton currently resides in Palm Coast, Florida, and will participate in public interviews at Palm Bay City Hall on March 29. The City Council plans to make a final selection and extend a formal job offer by April 17.

Palm Bay Live will continue publishing individual candidate profiles throughout the week to help residents learn more about the contenders.

See related articles here: 

Meet Jason Brian Davis:

Meet Candidate #1 for Palm Bay City Manager: Jason Brian Davis Brings Two Decades of Government Leadership

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