City Manager Joe Gerrity mum on resignation speculation

Submitted by Susan Hardee Steger

May 12, 2015 3:48 p.m.

City Manager Joe Gerrity

According to an article in the Nassau County Independent, "Fernandina Beach Mayor Stokes Speculation about City Manager's Job Status, "Mayor Ed Boner had spoken with Gerrity about his job status and that Gerrity is expected to make an announcement soon.  I think what it comes down to for him is that there is no way to continue when two people say they don’t support you," said Boner."

As reported by Suanne Z. Thamm in the Fernandina Observer, at a  May 5, commission meeting, Commissioners Lentz and Poynter spoke of performance issues "citing Gerrity’s alleged failure to move in a timely manner on FBCC direction with respect to issues ranging from unrest in the Fire Department, to hiring an airport manager, downtown issues involving CSX (“sidewalk to nowhere,” waterfront park proposed parking along railroad right of way, opening Alachua Street rail crossing) and overall leadership issues."

When Gerrity was contacted by the Fernandina Observer today and asked if he had any comments regarding resignation rumors, he responded, "No, not really."  After further questioning Gerrity said, "Whatever I decide to do will be in the best interest of the municipality.  We'll see what happens over the weekend and where my mind is at."

Gerrity said he may not even make an announcement at the upcoming Tuesday, May 19, regular meeting of the city commission.