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Dunedin Manager Gets Good First-Year Rating

By Mark Schantz | The Suncoast News

Published: January 26, 2008

DUNEDIN, Fla. - DUNEDIN, Fla. - It's not often that that five city commissioners voice agreement on an issue up for discussion.

During last week's City Commission meeting, however, all members agreed that City Manager Robert "Rob" DiSpirito has done an excellent job during his first year at the helm of the city.

DiSpirito was hired after a lengthy and difficult search for a replacement for longtime City Manager John Lawrence, who stepped down and moved to Georgia.

DiSpirito, who was city manager of Oberlin, Ohio, before coming to Dunedin, immediately faced a number of challenging issues.

In their evaluation last week, commissioners praised DiSpirito for being able to juggle those issues at the same time and see them through to resolution. He was praised for saving the city money, enlisting staff and the public in decision-making processes and consensus building.

During his short tenure, he has also become the butt of good-natured City Hall humor over the appearance of his office, which is strewn with piles of paperwork on his desk, table and floor. Lawrence, by contrast, was known for his orderly office.

Commissioner Julie Scales noted DiSpirito was able to shine, even in the midst of those early turbulent situations. He deserves a gold star for his excellent efforts.

Commissioner Dave Eggers noted the new manager came into office during a tough time and was able to deliver a balanced budget with minimal impact on city services. DiSpirito is a "listener, planner, doer, decision maker, classic leader and worker who rolls up his sleeves, Eggers said.

Mayor Bob Hackworth agreed, saying he is "extremely satisfied with the manager's performance."

Commissioner Julie Ward Bujalski praised DiSpirito for bringing a lot of new ideas to the office.

DiSpirito thanked everyone for being patient with the new guy on the block and told commissioners he is humbled by their comments and his first year on the job has been "a labor of love."

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