In a pivotal Special City Council Meeting held on July 19, 2025, the Titusville City Council engaged in a thorough interview process for the position of City Manager, focusing on the candidacy of Tom Aboud, the current Assistant City Manager. This meeting, attended by council members and the public, aimed to assess Aboud's vision and leadership style, as well as to address community concerns regarding city management.

Aboud, who has served the city for over two decades, emphasized the need for proactive measures in infrastructure and sustainability. He highlighted the importance of enhancing community outreach and transparency, particularly through social media, to keep citizens informed about municipal operations. His responses indicated a commitment to fostering better communication between the city government and its residents, which he deemed essential for effective governance.

Council members posed various questions regarding Aboud's leadership style and his approach to handling budgetary constraints and community feedback. Aboud described his leadership as collaborative, aiming to motivate his team while holding them accountable. He acknowledged the challenges of resource allocation among departments, particularly in times of budget cuts, and expressed a willingness to engage with the council to navigate these issues.

Public comments during the meeting reflected a mix of support and skepticism regarding Aboud's potential appointment. Supporters praised his accessibility and experience, noting that he had been more available to meet with community members than previous city managers. Conversely, some residents voiced concerns about continuity and the need for fresh perspectives in city leadership, suggesting that reopening the search for candidates might be beneficial.

The meeting concluded with a call for public input, allowing citizens to express their views on the city manager selection process. Many emphasized the importance of transparency and the need for a diverse candidate pool to ensure the best fit for the city's future.

As the council deliberates on the next steps, the discussions from this meeting underscore the critical nature of leadership in local government and the community's desire for effective, responsive management. The outcome of this process will likely shape Titusville's governance and its approach to addressing the challenges ahead.