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Destin City Manager, Lance Johnson, to depart in January after 20 years

After 20 years with the city, Destin City Manager Lance Johnson and the City Council have mutually agreed to part ways effective January 2, 2024. The Destin City Council held a special meeting on Monday night. One item on the consent agenda was the Separation Agreement and Mutual General Releases between Johnson and the city. […]

Destin City Manager Lance Johnson

After 20 years with the city, Destin City Manager Lance Johnson and the City Council have mutually agreed to part ways effective January 2, 2024.

The Destin City Council held a special meeting on Monday night. One item on the consent agenda was the Separation Agreement and Mutual General Releases between Johnson and the city.

  • Johnson has served as city manager since 2018 after initially being hired by Destin in January 2003.

Under the terms of the agreement, Johnson will continue receiving his salary and benefits through his final day. He will also receive a 20-week severance payment equivalent to his salary, benefits and perquisites.

  • The city has agreed to pay Johnson’s health insurance premiums under COBRA through July 2025 or until he finds new employment.
  • Johnson will retain his pension and retirement savings plan with the city.

After passing the separation agreement, Councilmember Jim Bagby pushed for the council to start the search process for a new city manager by drafting a request for proposal (RFP) to hire an executive search firm. Bagby wanted the RFP ready for the next council meeting in December.

However, after some back and forth discussion, Councilmember Torey Geile made a motion to table that discussion until the December 11 meeting. That motion passed 5-2 with Bagby and Council-member Johnny King voting no.

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“Congratulations, Lee, and the very best wishes to you and Cathy during your retirement years. A heartfelt thank you on behalf of my Bolton family for your attention and care....”
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“There is no public parking…note from article, “The beach bar is accessible only to Sandpiper Cove residents and guests, along with people walking up from the beach.” Walk in from...”
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“This should NOT BE ALLOWED in single family residential neighborhoods.”
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“It's amazing that the State of Florida can come up with money to purchase 2483 acres for a new park. But Caladesi Island State Park, Cayo Costa State Park and...”
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“What a beautiful story of past, present, and future. Lee, you have left an amazing legacy. These words from Matthew 25:21 are fitting for you, ‘Well done, good and faithful...”
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“Where do you park? Should run a shuttle for HI owners”
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“They have served great food items and the staff is friendly and ready to make the Sandpiper owners and guests feel welcome and appreciated! I heard the Saturday music is...”
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“Interesting Risk, limiting your customer base. Wishes for success.”
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“Beulah & I extend heartfelt gratitude and congratulations for your decades of highly skilled, compassionate care for our community and my family. We love you & Cathy and pray God’s...”
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“I've lived in the area all my life and we use to go arrowhead hunting in the area & use to find them.”
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