Daytona Beach Delays Decision on Controversial City Manager Contract

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – The future of the city manager in Daytona Beach is shrouded in uncertainty following the city commission’s decision to delay voting on his contract renewal. In a decision marked by division, the commission opted to postpone the vote instead of proceeding.

The crucial vote regarding Deric Feacher’s tenure as city manager was initially slated for April 15. However, the commission agreed to defer it to the subsequent meeting. This delay aims to allow for a thorough evaluation of Feacher’s performance, a motion introduced by City Commissioner Stacy Cantu.

During the meeting, Commissioner Cantu questioned, “How can you renew a contract without an evaluation?” Her inquiry underscored the need for a comprehensive review prior to making any decisions.

Ultimately, it was Mayor Derrick Henry who broke the tie, supporting the postponement to ensure the evaluation could be completed. This decision was met with visible dissatisfaction from community members present at the meeting, who expressed their frustration over the lack of immediate resolution.

Mayor Henry, addressing concerns about the delay, stated, “I don’t want anyone thinking I have cold feet about committing to where we are going as a community. Let’s wait and provide a firm and fair comprehensive evaluation so that the manager knows where we stand and he also is given the opportunity to address those concerns moving forward.”

“I don’t want anyone thinking I have cold feet about committing to where we are going as a community,” said Mayor Henry. “Let’s wait and give a firm and fair comprehensive evaluation so that the manager knows where we stand and he also is given the opportunity to address those concerns moving forward.”

It’s a high stakes decision coming after a sweeping audit of the city’s finances. It highlighted some concerning spending and many blame the city manager.

It shows from 2021 to 2025 the fire department had charged $500,000 on purchasing cards — or p-cards — for vehicles repairs and fuel. This violates city rules.

In addition, the auditor also found more than $50,000 was spent on food and drinks for fire leadership, as well as hundreds of purchases with missing receipts.

$50,000 more was flagged on unexplained tech purchases.

Presumably, the audit will be a point of interest during Feacher’s evaluation.

He has served as city manager since 2021. His current contract expires at the end of May.

City Commission is expected to make a vote on the renewal of his contract at the next commission meeting, set for May 6.