by Michelle Delaney, South Lake Tablet
A presentation delivered at the recent Clermont City Council meeting regarding an economic development and design tour sparked significant controversy, with the Clermont Mayor raising concerns over transparency, authorization, libility, and use of city funds.
The tour, organized by Economic Development Director Nathan Norris, involved an overnight trip to Seaside and other high-end coastal communities along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A. The stated purpose was to study urban design concepts and growth patterns for comparison to downtown Clermont as the city works with planning firm DPZ. Norris explained the trip was intended to help staff better guide and provide feedback during the planning process, particularly related to parking and development design.
The Mayor stated he was unaware of the trip until residents contacted him afterwards. No council members ultimately attended.
The total cost of the trip was approximately $5,500, including a charter bus, boxed lunches, dinner, and minimal beverage expenses. The city paid more than $3,000 toward the trip, despite the expenditure not being included as an approved budget item. Clermont Main Street later indicated it would contribute approximately $2,200 toward the cost, though the mayor noted this commitment was not approved in advance and did not meet city requirements for food and beverage expenditures.
Clermont City Manager Rick Van Wagner’s approval of the trip was also questioned. While the City Manager has discretionary authority to approve expenditures up to $50,000, the Mayor emphasized that such authority applies only to budgeted items. Since the tour was not budgeted, the City Manager did not have the authority to approve the expense.
Compounding concerns, civilians participated in the tour, raising additional questions regarding liability. Youth Council members, city staff, and community stakeholders were invited after staff illnesses reduced attendance. Participants included representatives from Clermont Main Street and youth representatives.
Mayor Tim Murry expressed frustration during the meeting, stating he was not informed of the trip and learned about it from residents. He said the situation reflected poorly on both his office and the city and described the process as lacking transparency. The situation was characterized as “execution before vision” emphasizing the importance of council oversight, especially when public funds are involved.
The Mayor also questioned why comparable communities closer to Clermont—such as Celebration—were not considered, noting that the 30A communities have vastly different economic and physical characteristics.
Council members stressed the need for clearer internal procedures, improved communication, and adherence to budgetary and approval requirements moving forward.
Council also voted 3 to 2 to keep the time of the council meetings at 3 pm.
The next Clermont City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 28 at 3 pm.
