In a recent Ocala City Council meeting, businessman Clay Albright criticized the local code enforcement culture, describing it as an “embedded cancerous culture” that creates fear among business owners. He urged the council to delay the contract renewal for City Manager Pete Lee, citing a lack of leadership.
Albright, who has received a citation that he believes is retaliatory, expressed frustration over the enforcement practices affecting local businesses, including a CVS site where he holds a ground lease. He argued that simply moving staff within the department doesn’t resolve deeper issues and urged the council to address the problems before renewing Lee’s contract.
Councilman Jim Hilty echoed Albright’s sentiments, citing the closure of multiple women-owned businesses and the need for more effective leadership. Although he voted ‘no’ on the contract renewal, other council members, like Barry Mansfield and Jay Musleh, supported Lee, arguing that the issues pointed out do not reflect on his overall leadership capabilities.
Despite mixed opinions, the council ultimately voted 4-1 to renew Lee’s contract, which included a salary increase to $267,608. Council President Ire Bethea and others expressed support for Lee, emphasizing the importance of stability in leadership during the city’s growth.
