Kicking off the August City Commission meeting, Greater Key West Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kerry Baker read into the record the Chamber’s appreciation of City Manager Brian L. Barroso.

“I would like to formally express and have put on record our appreciation for City Manager Brian L. Barroso’s leadership over the past six months,” she said.

“Since assuming his role in January, Brian has significantly improved communication and engagement between the City and the business community,” continued Baker. “His efforts have fostered greater transparency and responsiveness within city government, and we have seen real progress on key projects that are important to our community.”

Barroso took the reigns at a tumultuous time, working hard to navigate the City forward in the wake of a Grand Jury report that indicted three city officials for allegations that occurred before Barroso came on board.

“As we are all aware, the City has been navigating several challenges that originated prior to Brian’s appointment in January,” noted Baker. “Despite these inherited issues, he has demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and sound leadership in guiding the organization forward. Change is never easy, especially for City staff, but his steady approach, clear vision, and dedication are already having a positive and stabilizing impact.

“His monthly reports at Commission meetings are among the most informative we have heard in years, and they reflect both his command of the issues and his commitment to public accountability.

“We are confident that, with the continued support of the Commission, Brian will help lead the City of Key West toward long-term progress and stability. We look forward to working with him, the Commission, and City staff in the months and years ahead.”

“Thank you for the sentiments of support, Kerry,” Barroso wrote in an email. “The City truly values the partnership with the Chamber and will continue to work on strengthening relationships as we collectively contribute to building better for this amazing community.  Please extend my appreciation to the Chamber Board for their vote of confidence to the amazing men and women at the City that provide care, compassion, and consistency in their daily service to ‘All’ citizens.”

The letter of support comes on the heels of some misinformation fomenting in the community following misstatements during a July budget workshop that Barroso has requested a salary increase, which he has not.

During Wednesday’s meeting, Barroso requested a performance evaluation by the Mayor and Commission at his six-month juncture.

“As part of our ongoing efforts to ensure continued success and to maintain a high level of performance and transparency, I would like to formally request a six-month evaluation,” he said. “This evaluation will provide an opportunity to assess my progress on the goals and objectives outlined at the start of my tenure. It will also offer valuable insights into my leadership, decision-making, and contributions toward the growth and success of our City.”

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