The Venice City Council held a pivotal special meeting on June 25, 2025, focusing on the final interviews and selection of a new city manager. The discussions highlighted the candidates' visions for the city, with a strong emphasis on addressing immediate infrastructure needs over future developments.

One candidate, reflecting on community feedback, stressed the importance of enhancing the quality of life for residents. "What we can do to fix our current infrastructure rather than think about potentially future development," he noted, underscoring a community-driven approach to governance. This sentiment resonated with many council members, who acknowledged the pressing need for improvements in essential services like waste management and road maintenance.

Another candidate, Andrew Butterfield, currently serving as city manager in Port Richey, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead Venice. He shared his extensive background in government, emphasizing teamwork and community engagement as key components of effective leadership. Butterfield remarked, "The city of Venice is where I and my wife want to be... it’s a thrilling time to be here," highlighting the city's rich history and potential for future growth.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and optimism, as council members recognized the importance of selecting a leader who can build on Venice's successes while addressing the immediate needs of its residents. The decision on the new city manager is anticipated to shape the future of Venice, focusing on resilience and community well-being.