Palm Coast’s City Council will meet tonight to address Mayor Mike Norris’ recent allegation that he was offered a “quid pro quo” related to the City’s controversial 2050 Comprehensive Plan — an accusation that has drawn significant attention, raised legal questions, and deepened divisions across the city.
During last week’s council meeting, Norris claimed that someone offered him an unspecified benefit in exchange for his political support of the plan. However, he has so far declined to reveal the identity of the individual involved or provide details about the alleged offer. His request to discuss the matter privately in a closed-door session was denied by fellow council members, who cited Florida’s Sunshine Law requiring public discussion unless specific exemptions apply.
Further complicating matters, Norris asserted during a May 1 special meeting that a “witness whose testimony is above reproach” was present during the alleged conversation. That witness, he suggested, is a retired detective from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office—a notable detail, given that Norris’ wife is a retired detective from the same department.
In a separate but related development, Norris, acting in his official capacity as Mayor, has filed a lawsuit against the City of Palm Coast and Councilman Charles Gambaro, arguing that Gambaro’s appointment violated the City Charter. Some have questioned whether this lawsuit itself could represent another violation of the Charter, which places limits on the Mayor’s authority to act unilaterally.
As Norris faces growing criticism, a small but vocal group of residents — steadfast in their support — have rallied to his defense, often echoing his statements and actions with near-unquestioning loyalty.
Rosie Rose wrote on social media: “The People who Elected Mike Norris, City of Palm Coast Mayor Stand behind him,” expressing continued confidence in Norris’ leadership despite the mounting controversies.
Shane Lieb also voiced support, stating: “It’s clear as day the charter says an election must be called,” repeating a central argument from Norris’ legal complaint against Gambaro’s appointment.
Jeff James, a frequent online supporter of the Mayor, encouraged Norris to remain aggressive: “You got the power, Mike.”
DeSantis Nick Riley Adam praised Norris as a bold leader willing to confront corruption, writing: “Mike Norris, Mayor of Palm Coast, is a true leader who isn’t afraid to stand up and speak out against injustice.” He also criticized former city officials, referring to them with nicknames like “Lam Duck Alfin, Danko, and Dufus.”
Ryan Smith dismissed concerns about Councilman Gambaro’s appointment, commenting: “Good. Gambaro needs to go since he wasn’t elected.”
Jared Trueheart defended Norris by pointing to perceived problems with prior city leadership, writing: “If you saw how the previous mayor and councilman Ed Danko chose this guy, you’d be skeptic as well.”
Karen McCarty Kinard criticized the city’s government overall, posting: “Palm Coast is the most incredibly stupid and immature group of government I have seen anywhere in Florida!” — though she did not attribute any blame to Mayor Norris.
Mike Wauldron circulated a petition calling for Gambaro’s removal, reinforcing a broader trend among Norris supporters who have focused on Gambaro rather than addressing the allegations and investigations facing the Mayor.
Despite growing scrutiny, these individuals — and others online — continue to stand by Norris, portraying him not as a political figure under investigation, but as a victim of a flawed system. Their steadfast loyalty has drawn comparisons to a disciple-like following, defending the Mayor through every controversy without reservation.
Meanwhile, the broader context around tonight’s meeting is even more complicated. Norris’ “quid pro quo” allegation comes in the wake of an independent investigation that found he violated the City Charter by improperly seeking the resignations of Acting City Manager Lauren Johnston and Chief of Staff Jason DeLorenzo. The same investigation cited Norris for unprofessional conduct, leading to a formal censure by the Council and a vote of no confidence. Some council members have also suggested forwarding the findings to the Florida Ethics Commission.
As tonight’s meeting approaches, critical questions remain: Who exactly is Norris accusing? What was the alleged benefit? Will he stand by his claim, risking possible defamation allegations? Or will he retreat from the accusation, further eroding his standing?
And with a lawsuit now filed against the city he was elected to serve, the stakes for Mayor Mike Norris — and for Palm Coast — have never been higher.
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