The Palatka city commissioners have agreed to reinstate Carty, providing her with a 30-day period to complete necessary training and coursework aimed at enhancing her job performance.

This decision comes on the heels of an investigation triggered by nine complaints from city employees. The allegations ranged from making inappropriate comments to utilizing city staff for personal errands.

In accordance with her contract, Carty is entitled to a 30-day cure period, during which she will focus on improving her performance as city manager. City officials believe this approach not only serves the best interests of the city but also ensures Carty receives fair treatment under her contractual rights.

Marcia Carty’s contract requires her to be allowed to have a 30 day cure period. During that time she’ll work on her performance as a city manager. City leaders say they went with the move that’s best for the city but also gives Carty her due process . 

“Firing Ms. Carty will not correct other items that need to be addressed in the city,” said 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.