Safety Harbor recognized for 90 years of council-manager form of government
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The City of Safety Harbor was recognized last week for its 90th anniversary operating as a council-manager form of government.
Oldsmar City Manager Bruce Haddock appeared before the commission on Thursday, June 8 to present a certificate to Safety Harbor City Manager Matt Spoor and Mayor Joe Ayoub, where he praised the officials for their commitment to the fair and balanced form of city leadership.
“The council-manager form of government was created to help separate administrative oversight from direct political influence while providing elected officials with a high level of professional expertise, to guide, support and provide you with options through the decision and policy making process,”Haddock, who is retiring in October after 30 years in Oldsmar, said.
Haddock complimented the Safety Harbor officials for their numerous events that promote and build the community as well as the celebration of the city’s centennial this year, and he recognized Spoor for his work on projects such as the Waterfront Park and its new, scenic boardwalk.
“I’d also like to thank Mr. Spoor for his service to our profession through the Florida City and County Management Association,” he added.
But just as Haddock was ready to present the officials with a certificate, the recipients turned the tables on their presenter.
“Hang on to that for a minute, because while you’re here, we have a little something for you,” Ayoub said
“I think this is a trick of some kind!” Haddock replied.
Ayoub then read a list of highlights from Haddock’s storied career, which began in 1974 before he moved to Oldsmar in 1986.
“His longevity is a testament to his leadership, fiscal prowess (and) his ability to foresee the needs of the city,” Ayoub said. “It is through his guidance, judgement and management that Oldsmar has grown into the city that it is today.”
“So, on behalf of the City of Safety Harbor, its residents and its employees, the City Commission recognizes Bruce Haddock for his exemplary career in municipal leadership, his service as one of the longest serving city managers in the state of Florida, his positive and lasting impact to Oldsmar and North Pinellas, and for being a good friend and neighbor to the City of Safety Harbor for the past 30 years. Thank you very much.”
An admittedly surprised Haddock thanked Ayoub and Spoor, who handed him a key to the city as he simultaneously presented them with their certificate of recognition.
After the meeting, Spoor shared his thoughts about the evening.
“The first Mayors and Commissioners choose this form of government in 1927 under the same principals and vision of our current City Commission,” he told Safety Harbor Connect via email.” “A government that is responsive to residents, allowing elected leaders to focus on policy “big picture” initiatives while providing a team of dedicated administrative leaders to carry out the day-to-day management and operation of the City.”
“I am fortunate to be supported by an extremely knowledgeable, dedicated and hardworking Management Team who serve as experts in their field. If I could go back in time I would thank the early Mayors and Commissioners for the vision and foresight that was not all that common in small cities 90 years ago.”
Spoor also spoke about his longtime friend and mentor, Haddock.
“When I became Interim City Manager in 2007 the first person to reach out to me was Bruce Haddock,” he wrote.
“Bruce has been a close mentor and friend during my tenure in Safety Harbor. Leading Oldsmar for the past 30+ years, Bruce has been a good neighbor and is very deserving of the recognition he is receiving. I wish Bruce and Retha much peace and happiness as they enter the next chapter in their life. Congrats Bruce!”
Related content:
- Safety Harbor Vice-Mayor Cliff Merz receives Home Rule Hero award
- Bill Cropsey recognized for longtime service to Safety Harbor
- City recognizes Safety Harbor centenarian
