Scotty Davis, Pensacola City Council’s pick for its council executive after a five-month search, has withdrawn from the position. Here is the email from City Administrator Bill Reynolds that explains what happened:
From: Bill Reynolds
Sent: Tuesday, September 27, 2011 11:38 AM
To: City Council
Cc: Ashton Hayward
Subject: Council Executive
City Council Men and Women,
I regret to inform you that Mr. Davis has withdrawn his name from consideration for the Council Executive position. Human Resources contacted Mr. Davis yesterday to inform him of our intent to interview his current employer. During the course of that conversation, Mr. Davis stated that he no longer wished to be a candidate.
Mr. Davis stated he came to the decision after watching the video of several council meetings and reflecting on what he was told during the course of his interviews with council members. Among his concerns was that he was told during his one-on-one interviews by several council members that they were going to try and have the starting salary increased, which did not happen. This would essentially require him to take a $10,000 pay cut. In addition, he also gleaned from these interviews that the position was not well defined in his opinion as various members described the role of the Council Executive in differing manner.
The text of his confirmation email is as follows:
Thank you very much for your telephone call offering me the position of Council Executive with the City of Pensacola. While I believe firmly in your organization and appreciate the challenging opportunity you offer, I have decided to remain in my current position, which I believe more closely aligns with my career goals. Therefore, although it was a difficult decision, as I explained when we spoke by phone, I must decline your offer.
I do appreciate all the courtesy and hospitality extended to me by your office, and I wish you and the City of Pensacola the best.
Sincerely,
Scotty Davis
William H. Reynolds
City Administrator