The Venice City Council held a pivotal special meeting on June 25, 2025, focusing on the final interviews for the city manager position. The discussions highlighted the candidates' visions for enhancing community engagement and improving city operations.

One standout candidate emphasized a proactive approach to city management, prioritizing infrastructure development and citizen engagement. "I want to put out a citizen's public survey to see exactly what they’re looking for in their community," the candidate stated, underscoring the importance of understanding residents' needs and preferences.

The candidate also stressed the significance of employee satisfaction, noting, "A happy employee is going to do an outstanding job." This focus on workplace morale aims to foster a productive environment where city staff feel valued and motivated.

In response to questions about union negotiations, the candidate shared their extensive experience, stating, "I have successfully negotiated all contracts without issue." They highlighted the importance of collaboration and communication in addressing potential grievances before they escalate, aiming to create a harmonious working relationship with union representatives.

The candidate's management style was described as communicative and collaborative, with a commitment to working alongside elected officials. "We should be playing together in the same sandbox," they remarked, emphasizing a team-oriented approach to governance.

As the council deliberates on the selection of a new city manager, the focus remains on finding a leader who can effectively engage with both the community and city employees, ensuring a collaborative and responsive administration. The outcome of this meeting could significantly shape the future of Venice's governance and community relations.