BREAKING: Key West Commission Approves Amended Contract for City Manager in 5-2 Vote

Base salary set at $265,000, term remains at two years after more than an hour of debate.

Key West City Commissioner’s approve raise, keep benefits and term same by a vote of 5-2. /COKW

The Key West City Commission on Wednesday approved an amended contract for City Manager Brian Barroso after more than an hour of debate, voting 5-2 to adopt a revised compensation package with reduced terms.

Commissioner Donie Lee’s amendment lowered the proposed base salary from $295,000 to $265,000, kept severance at 15 weeks, maintained a $500 monthly vehicle allowance and preserved reimbursable expenses.

Commissioners also agreed not to extend the manager’s term from two years to four years as originally proposed.

Commissioners Lissette Carey, Aaron Castillo, Monica Haskell, Donie Lee, and Greg Veliz, voted in favor. Haskell said she supported the measure in the spirit of compromise.

Commissioner Sam Kaufman and Mayor Danise Henriquez voted no, with Henriquez pausing before casting her vote after the measure had already passed.

Most public comment opposed any increase to the contract. Including benefits and pension contributions estimated at about 30% above base pay, the total annual package is expected to cost roughly $345,000.

This is an evolving story. Watch this space.