City Commission appoints interim City Attorney

City Commission appoints interim City Attorney

Published on September 13, 2024

The City Commission this week voted to appoint an interim City Attorney following the resignation of Amber Slayton.

Slayton, who has served in the role for more than eight years, submitted her resignation last month, citing plans to move back to her home state of Texas and be closer to family.

"It has been a distinct honor and privilege to serve the City of North Port since 2016," she wrote in a letter to commissioners. "I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the legal framework that supports our City's growth and well-being. Working alongside the talented members of the City Attorney's Office and collaborating with each of you has been an enriching experience that I will always cherish."

The Commission on Wednesday unanimously voted to appoint Deputy City Attorney Michael Golen to the interim role, effective Sept. 26. Golen has been with the City for more than six years. He will receive a 10 percent pay increase.

Slayton was mentioned in the September 2024 "Top Elite Attorney" edition of SRQ Magazine as one of the top attorneys in her practice area for the fourth time. Commissioners praised Slayton for her professionalism and leadership of her team.

"I have enormous respect for you and for them, and I'm comfortable that we'll be in good hands, but I'm really going to miss you," Commissioner Barbara Langdon said.

The City will select a recruiting firm and schedule a future agenda item for commissioners to discuss qualification parameters and a recommended salary range for a permanent replacement.

The City Attorney is one of three charter positions, along with City Manager and City Clerk, who are appointed by the commission. The City Attorney's Office serves as the legal advisor for the City's elected officials, staff, advisory boards and committees.

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