Atlantic Beach, Fla. – The city commission voted against Mayor Curtis Ford’s unexpected motion to fire City Manager Kevin Hogencamp during its regular meeting on Monday night. Without a majority backing the proposal, Hogencamp remains in his role until his announced retirement in August 2027.
Background on the city manager
Hogencamp is the sixth city manager the Beaches city has had in as many years. He stepped into the permanent position on June 8 after serving six months as interim following the voluntary resignation of former manager Bill Killingsworth. Prior to that, he was assistant city manager and held several senior staff roles, including public information manager, in Albany, Ga. He also has experience as a newspaper publisher, editor, and reporter.
Mayor’s proposal and commission response
Mayor Ford introduced the termination motion as a surprise item, not listed on the five‑page agenda. He argued that Hogencamp’s planned retirement would coincide with critical budget discussions and the search for new department heads in finance, public works, and neighborhoods. “I don’t believe the commission should stand by and have the current city manager, who gave us the belief that he was in it for the long term, picking the next deputy city manager,” Ford said.
Ford also suggested former City Manager Joe Gerrity, who previously served as interim manager and was a past mayor of Fernandina Beach, as a “perfect solution” for the top job. He noted Gerrity’s extensive experience and framed the suggestion as a continuity measure.
Commission members weigh in
Commissioner Bruce Bole reminded colleagues that Gerrity’s earlier tenure cost the city more than budgeted, urging caution. He then praised Hogencamp, noting the city’s “good momentum” and recommending continuity while the commission seeks a new assistant city manager.
Commissioner Thomas Grant proposed an immediate removal with full compensation, but the motion failed without sufficient support. Commissioner Jessica Ring echoed concerns about the timing of Hogencamp’s retirement, proposing the hiring of a consultant to explore candidate options before the next budget session begins.
Commissioner Kevin Bole (spelled “Bole” in the source) offered a personal endorsement, calling Hogencamp “probably the best city manager” he has worked with in his six‑plus years on the commission.
Mayor’s rationale and the city’s next steps
Ford emphasized that his proposal was not personal but a business decision, expressing discomfort with the current manager’s impending departure amid budget deliberations. He said he had already contacted Gerrity about the potential appointment.
Following the vote, Hogencamp thanked staff and residents, stating he would continue to work toward a smooth transition. “There are no hard feelings,” he said, adding that he and the mayor had shaken hands and that the community has much to look forward to.
Looking ahead
The commission will continue its regular agenda, including discussion of a new assistant city manager. The city’s next budget cycle remains a priority, and officials indicated a desire to maintain stability in municipal operations while planning for the upcoming leadership change.
Atlantic Beach City Commission meetings are held at 6 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month at City Hall.
Original reporting: Jacksonville Today — read the source article.
