On Monday, August 25 at 6 p.m., the newly formed Charter Review Committee of the City of Palm Coast will meet for the first time at the Jon Netts Community Wing located at Palm Coast City Hall, 160 Lake Ave.
Five Palm Coast residents were chosen by the City Council last month to form the committee, which was tasked with reviewing the current city charter and suggesting possible changes. Michael Martin, Donald O. Brien, Perry Mitrano, Ramon Marrero, and Patrick Miller make up the five members.
At least four public hearings or workshops, one in each of the city’s districts, are anticipated to be held by the committee; additional ones may be held if desired.
The charter review process will be streamlined by independent moderator Georgette Dumont. The public is welcome to attend all Charter Review Committee meetings and provide feedback on proposed changes to the City Charter. The City Council must adopt all proposed charter revisions. It has the authority to add its own, change, or reject any of the committee’s recommendations. The remaining ideas will be on the ballot for the general election in November 2026.
Dumont is the director of the University of North Florida’s Master of Public Administration program, where she teaches about nonprofits and local government. From 2018 to 2022, she served as an elected member of the Jacksonville Beach City Council and possesses extensive knowledge of charters. Based on 11 meetings, her estimated total compensation will be $12,500, which includes transportation and $250 per hour.
In her letter of introduction to Palm Coast, she stated, “I have advocated for the creation of a strategic plan, mission, and vision for the city.” The city conducted its first comprehensive charter revision in more than two decades during my tenure, with participation from elected officials and citizens at every session. Additionally, I have given presentations on the charter review process, member roles, and necessary stages for a successful review to the resident-volunteer Charter Review Commission of the City of Atlantic Beach. I most recently oversaw the thorough charter review procedure at St. Augustine Beach.
The City of Palm Coast calendar will list every event. Contact [email protected] for additional information about the Charter Review Committee.
