Treasure Island city commissioners are at odds over the performance of City Manager Charlie Van Zant, with some calling for his removal due to allegations of fiscal mismanagement, interference with commissioners’ oversight, and inappropriate workplace conduct.

Commissioners Deadlocked

A motion to place Van Zant on paid administrative leave pending an outside investigation was deadlocked 2-2, with Vice Mayor Tammy Vasquez and Commissioner Arthur Czyszczon supporting the motion, and Mayor John Doctor and Commissioner Arden Dickey opposing it.

Vasquez expressed concerns about Van Zant’s leadership and responsiveness, citing a pattern of behavior that included fiscal judgment issues, communication failures, and interference with commissioners’ ability to perform their elected responsibilities.

Czyszczon also expressed support for the motion, stating that he had lost confidence in Van Zant’s leadership ability and questioned his visibility at City Hall and community events.

However, Dickey rejected Vasquez’s claims, stating that he had seen no evidence of financial mismanagement and had always received prompt responses to his requests from Van Zant.

Doctor also voted against the motion, saying he had not experienced the type of conduct described by Vasquez.

Investigation and Next Steps

An official complaint has been filed with the city’s human resources department, requesting an outside investigation into the allegations against Van Zant.

The commission will likely revisit the issue at a future meeting, with Commissioner Chris Clark, who was absent from the meeting, intending to present evidence that he claims shows the effort to remove Van Zant is a coordinated attack.

Original reporting: St. Pete Catalyst — read the source article.