Treasure Island commissioners dismiss city manager after nine months in position.

The City Commission of Treasure Island recently voted to terminate the employment of City Manager Charles Anderson, marking a significant leadership shift just nine months after his appointment. The decision was reached in a narrow 3-2 vote, with support from Mayor John Doctor, Vice Mayor Tammy Vasquez, and Commissioner Chris Clark. Commissioners Arden Dickey and Arthur Czyszczon voiced their opposition to the move.

Anderson was brought on board in August of the previous year, following his tenure as deputy city manager in Great Falls, Montana. In the lead-up to the decision, Vasquez highlighted the increasing public pressure that influenced the commission’s review. She asserted that the challenges facing the city were not minor but stemmed from a lack of effective leadership. Vasquez criticized Anderson for his inadequate support of both residents and staff, arguing that he had failed to maintain a stable work environment, resulting in high employee turnover. She reported that remaining staff members felt overwhelmed by their responsibilities, negatively impacting basic city services. Additionally, she alleged that Anderson arrived unprepared for meetings and neglected to incorporate requested agenda items.

The termination comes against a backdrop of dissatisfaction among residents, particularly regarding Anderson’s handling of Federal Emergency Management Agency regulations and the city’s recovery process following two recent hurricanes. Critics claimed that Anderson overlooked opportunities to expedite recovery efforts for residents wanting to return to their homes. Supporters assert that he prioritized maintaining the city’s flood insurance rating throughout these challenges.

Clark noted the overwhelming feedback received from constituents, with 75% of approximately 75 emails voicing support for Anderson’s termination. Many residents also expressed concerns regarding Anderson’s involvement in the controversial Elevate TI project.

However, Commissioner Dickey defended Anderson, highlighting the difficult circumstances he faced upon entering office, including immediate challenges posed by hurricanes. Dickey emphasized that Anderson had gained valuable experience during his brief tenure and suggested that the commission’s collective decisions contributed to the difficulties faced by the city manager.

With Anderson’s departure, Assistant City Manager and Fire Chief Trip Barrs will take over as interim city manager. The commission intends to finalize a formal termination resolution at its upcoming meeting on May 20, prompting an immediate search for a new permanent manager. This leadership change marks a critical juncture for Treasure Island as it navigates ongoing recovery efforts and seeks to stabilize municipal governance.

Media News Source.