City of Mexico Beach Special Meeting Minutes MONDAY MARCH 24, 2025 - 10:30 AM The City of Mexico Beach City Council met in a regular meeting on Thursday March 13, 2025, at 4:00 pm at the Public Works Building in Mexico Beach. Mayor Wolff and the following Councimembers were present: Linda Hamilton, Jason Adams and Jerry Smith. Tim Linderman was absent. Also present was City Clerk, Tammy Brunson and City Attorney, Tim Sloan. I. Call to order: Mayor Wolff called the meeting to order at 10:30 am. II. Regular Agenda: Jason Adams motions to add an agenda item about Mr. Truitt's employment contract. Mayor Wolff and Tim Sloan discuss the timeliness of the investigation and the need for a vote on the motion. Jason Adams explains his attempt to add the agenda item and his belief that the discussion should have happened earlier. Tim Sloan suggests that the discussion might affect the investigation's outcome and the need to hire an outside firm. Jason Adams insists on discussing Mr. Truitt's employment contract before moving forward with the HR proposals. Mayor Wolff and Tim Sloan express concerns about the timing and preparation for such a discussion. Jason Adams reiterates his motion and the need for a full discussion, emphasizing the importance of addressing the employment contract immediately, Jerry Smith seconds. Motion passes with a 3 to 2 vote. No votes were Linda Hamilton and Mayor Wolff. Jason Adams raises concerns about the hiring process oft the public works director, Mr. Steele. Tim Linderman defends Mr. Truitt's authority to hire and the timeline oft the hiring process. Jason Adams and other members discuss the perception of nepotism and the speed of the hiring process. The conversation shifts to the budget implications and the financial impact of hiring Mr. Steele. Mayor Wolff and Tim Linderman discuss the financial implications and the decision- making process. Jason Adams expresses concerns about the judgment and communication issues related to the lodging arrangements. The conversation highlights the need for clear policies and proper communication within the city administration. Jason Adams discusses Mr. Steele's contact with FDLE about reinstating the police department. Mayor Wolff and Tim Linderman express doubts about the accuracy of the information and the need for further investigation. The conversation touches on the potential miscommunication and the impact on the city's reputation. Jason Adams emphasizes the importance of addressing-these issues to maintain trust and integrity within the city administration. The council discusses the options ofterminating Mr. Truitt's contract, implementing a probationary period, or continuing with the investigation. Tim Linderman suggests giving Mr. Truitt a chance to correct his mistakes and improve his approach.. Jason Adams expresses his concerns about the trust issues and the need for a thorough investigation. Jason Adams motioned, and Jerry Smith Seconded to terminate Mr. Truitt's contract. Motion failed with a 2 to 3 vote. No votes were Mayor Wolff, Linda Hamilton and Tim Linderman. The council resumes the discussion on the HR proposals and the need for an investigation. Tim Sloan advises against using the city attorney for the investigation to maintain objectivity. The council considers the pros and cons of different HR firms and their services. Tim Linderman recommends The Krizner Group as the preferred firm based on their experience and cost-effectiveness. The council agrees to move forward with the investigation and selects Krizner as the HR firm. The council members express their commitment to resolving the issues and improving the city administration. Tim Linderman discusses the cost of $300 per hour for HR interviews, estimating $5,800 for 10 interviews, excluding travel expenses. Tim Linderman recommends including a Climate Survey to assess coercion, racial bias, and other concerns among employees. City of Mexico Beach Special Meeting Minutes MONDAY MARCH 24, 2025 - 10:30 AM Tim Linderman believes there might be more issues beyond the two employees involved, suggesting a broader investigation. Mayor Wolff suggests estimating a higher budget, considering the cost of interviews and reports, and mentions the experience of HR companies like MGT and Krizner. Mayor Wolff explains the evaluation process, considering factors like local presence, on-site capabilities, and expertise in HR. Mayor Wolff favors MGT due to their experience, pricing, and willingness to conduct on-site interviews. Linda Hamilton inquiries about the selection of the 10 individuals for the interviews. Mayor Wolff clarifies that the council did not choose the individuals; the number was determined by Tammy and himself. Jason Adams emphasizes the need for a flat fee cost and the importance of addressing current complaints. Jason Adams suggests making a vote on hiring someone now or waiting for a meeting to decide on funding. Mayor Wolff and Tim Linderman discuss the need for additional funding to cover travel and other expenses. Jerry Smith compares the costs of different HR companies, noting that the Pittman Group is the cheapest. Mayor Wolff clarifies that the investigation is for an HR complaint, not a legal issue. Tim Sloan offers his services as a lawyer if needed. Jason Adams highlights the need for a cushion for mileage, meals, and lodging. Mayor Wolff suggests starting with a budget of $15,000 and adjusting as needed. Tim Linderman proposes authorizing up to $20,000 to avoid special meetings. Jason Adams and other speakers agree on the need for a detailed employee survey and its cost. Mayor Wolff suggests having a conversation with the selected HR group for more information. Tim Linderman motions, and Linda Hamilton seconds to contract with The Krizner Group for the HR evaluation, authorizing up to $20,000. Motion passes unanimously. Jason Adams verifies the number of complaints and their nature. Mayor Wolff explains the process of handling complaints, noting that some are related to the city administrator. Tim Sloan mentions the potential for investigating additional complaints. The meeting concludes with a plan to proceed with the investigation and address the concerns raised during the discussion. III. Adjournment: Jason Adams motioned to adjourn the meeting at 12:19 pm. By: Attest: Sann BrNN Mayor Richard Wolff City Clerk, Tammy Brunson