The Good Old Days of City Manager Deals

Fernandina, Florida

January 11, 1936

“A called meeting of the City Commission was held this date at the City Hall at 3:00 p.m.

Present: Mayor-Commissioner P.C. Kelly, Commissioners  W.T. Haile, Louis Goldstein and Joe Bruni, and Mr. O. H. Anderson of Superior, Arizona.

Mayor Commissioner Kelly called upon Mr. Anderson for an expression regarding his proposed connection with the City.

Mr. Anderson stated that he was sent here by Mr. White of the Seaboard Air Line Railway and has looked over the Island and is thoroughly convinced there is no better place for a pulp mill than Fernandina, and is anxious to work to bring a pulp mill or other industries to this city.

Mr. Anderson offered to take over the work of City Manager and Auditor and Clerk at a salary of $300.00 per month, and should he be instrumental in bringing a pulp mill to Fernandina that an additional compensation of one per cent of the capital that might be invested in such an industry, be paid to him when such a plant is assured, one half of one per cent to be paid when plant is well under construction and the balance when plant is in full operation.

After a short discussion the Commissioners expressed themselves entirely satisfied with Mr. Anderson’s proposition. Mr. Hailey made a motion, which was seconded by Mr. Bruni, all members present voting “aye,” that Mr. Anderson be appointed City Manager and Auditor, and Clerk, effective this date.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned.”

--Submitted by Commissioner Chip Ross