PALATKA, Fla. — Officials in Palatka have made the decision to reinstate Marcia Carty to her position as city manager.

The city’s commissioners have granted Carty a month to undergo necessary training and education to ensure she fulfills her role effectively.

An investigation was prompted by nine complaints from city employees, which included allegations of inappropriate remarks and misuse of staff for personal errands.

Carty’s contract mandates a 30-day period to rectify any deficiencies. During this time, she will concentrate on improving her managerial performance. City officials believe this approach not only benefits the city but also respects Carty’s right to due process.

“Dismissing Ms. Carty won’t resolve other underlying issues within the city,” stated Palatka City Commissioner Annie Henderson Davis.

Instead of termination, Marcia Carty was given a last chance to prove she can effectively and ethically lead city staff, as Palatka city manager. 

Monday night’s decision by commissioners comes after three employees submitted complaints  to human resources in September.

According to city staff, only one of those employees still works for the city. two have left. 

“I was the first employee to file a formal grievance against Marcia Carty,” said Daphne Russo, 

Commissioners heard from one of the complainants, Daphne Russo, Monday night.

“I’m speaking out for every time she called me difficult because I didn’t cower and wouldn’t be bullied by her,” said Russo, “Marcia Carty doesn’t keep the city running, the department heads do, the employees the front line workers who show up everyday for crap pay.”

Monday night, commissioners also heard passionate pleas from residents. 

“You keep Ms. Carty and do what Commissioner Davis suggested and I think you’ll be doing fine,” said one resident. 

The commission ended up voting to allow Carty to return to full duty, while completing training in ethics, leadership and workplace conduct.

As for the one remaining employee who filed a complaint against Carty, they will be offered a lateral transfer so they won’t have to work under her.

Commissioners also agreed that Carty should receive a written reprimand for allowing city employees to do work on her home, one of the nine allegations made against her.

“If it was to happen to another employee they’d receive some form of reprimand,” said Commissioner Campbell.  

That 30 day period for Marcia Carty will start this Wednesday. 

At the end of it the commission will evaluate her once again to make sure she’s adhering to her duties properly.