Port Richey council member proposes exploring the need for a strong mayor system.

In Port Richey, the recent resignation of City Manager Matthew Coppler has prompted discussions surrounding potential changes to the city’s governance structure. Newly elected City Council member Chris Maher has advocated for a shift from the current city manager model to a strong-mayor system, a matter raised during the council’s meeting on April 22.

Maher, who was sworn into office following his election on April 8, noted that Port Richey operates under a city manager paradigm, whereby the City Council—comprised of the mayor and council members—sets policies and hires a city manager who functions much like a chief executive officer. The city manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations and oversees department heads.

In contrast, a strong-mayor model would empower the elected mayor with significant executive authority, including control over city operations, budget management, personnel decisions, and the ability to override City Council actions. Maher’s proposal suggests that this governance structure could enhance efficiency and responsiveness in city management.

Coppler resigned on April 17, with his departure scheduled to take effect 45 days later. During the April 22 meeting, council members evaluated the implications of hiring a search firm to recruit both an interim and permanent replacement for the city manager position. Concerns were raised regarding the time-consuming nature of this recruitment process, particularly when the city needs an immediate solution.

Although the role had not yet been advertised, Mayor John Eric Hoover revealed that individuals, including a police chief and a former mayor, had expressed interest in the city manager position. He proposed a dual approach, suggesting that an interim manager could be appointed to facilitate a seamless transition, allowing the council additional time to find a permanent successor.

As discussions progressed, Maher questioned whether the city should contemplate an alternative governance model altogether. He emphasized the potential benefits of a strong-mayor arrangement while acknowledging Coppler’s previous effectiveness in the role. Nevertheless, he suggested that future city managers might not possess the same level of competence, hence warranting consideration of a governance shift.

Hoover reflected on various government structures, acknowledging the potential for a charter amendment to implement such changes, which would require a public referendum. Moreover, he recognized the unique challenges of managing a small city, arguing that having a mayor residing within the community could enhance their commitment to local governance.

The conversations surrounding the potential switch to a strong-mayor system continue to evoke differing perspectives among council members. Proponents like Maher believe that the structure could yield stronger leadership, while critics such as Coppler caution against the risks of volatility associated with elected officials replacing key staff frequently.

If the City Council ultimately decides to pursue this transition, it would entail a substantial overhaul of the existing city code, a process that would be led by City Attorney Nancy Meyer. As these discussions evolve, residents of Port Richey are likely to remain engaged in the deliberations that could reshape the future of their local government.

For those interested, recordings of City Council meetings are available on YouTube, including the April 22 meeting, accessible at tinyurl.com/PRCityCouncil.