During the Lynn Haven Commission Meeting on January 14, 2025, a significant discussion arose regarding the compensation of the city manager, particularly concerning overtime pay for work related to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The conversation highlighted concerns about transparency and adherence to proper procedures in city governance.

Commissioners debated whether the city manager should receive overtime pay for her work during the MLK event, with some expressing that her contract does not explicitly allow for such compensation. One commissioner pointed out that many city managers in similar municipalities do not receive overtime, suggesting that the intent of the contract was to avoid additional pay for extra hours worked. This discussion was prompted by a previous email that sought approval for overtime, which some commissioners felt placed them in a difficult position, potentially violating Sunshine Law regulations.

The meeting also addressed a citizen's concern about the commission's adherence to proper procedures in approving the city manager's overtime. The city attorney advised that the matter could be placed on the consent agenda or discussed further to ensure transparency and accountability.

In a moment of reflection, a commissioner acknowledged personal oversight in the matter, apologizing to residents for not being more diligent in reviewing city communications. This admission underscored a broader commitment to transparency and accountability within the commission, as members recognized the importance of being meticulous in their duties to the public.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners emphasized the need for clearer guidelines and communication moving forward, aiming to restore trust and ensure that all actions taken by the city are in the best interest of the Lynn Haven community. The discussions from this meeting will likely influence future decisions regarding employee compensation and the overall governance of the city.