Reversal: McKown takes Florida job

In a reversal of its July vote, the Clewiston City Council voted unanimously Aug. 7 to offer the position to McKown, who had been one of two finalists for the job.

“I received a call from the interim city manager of Clewiston last Friday (July 31) that the contract negotiations with the other candidate had failed,” McKown said. “I signed a contract with the city of Clewiston on Wednesday and their commission unanimously approved it at a special called meeting.”

McKown resigned from his Commerce position effective Friday, Aug. 21.

Negotiations between Clewiston and the previous finalist for the job broke down over seven issues, according to the minutes of the July 30 meeting of the city commission. One of the main issues was a desire for a three-year contract with a six-month severance package; Clewiston countered with a one-year offer and a three-month severance package. The other candidate also asked for an indemnification provision in the contract, which the city declined.

When negotiations reached an impasse, the council appeared frustrated and voted to withdraw its offer, end negotiations and begin negotiations with McKown.