More than a year after Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated Pinellas County’s Gulf Coast communities, four barrier-island cities — St. Pete Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, Treasure Island, and Madeira Beach — are each being led by city managers who weren’t in place when the storms hit. In each case, leadership turnover followed public outcry, staff departures, and criticism over post-hurricane response.

In St. Pete Beach, City Manager Fran Robustelli took over in mid-2024 after her predecessor was pushed out over complaints of a toxic workplace. She has since focused on modernizing technology, streamlining permitting, and rebuilding staff morale — earning strong marks at her first annual review.

Indian Rocks Beach hired Ryan Henderson in late 2025 after longtime City Manager Gregg Mims resigned amid tensions over short-term rental enforcement and hurricane recovery. Henderson, who previously managed a fast-growing Dallas suburb, has emphasized community engagement and what he calls a “neighbor-centric” approach to governance.

In Treasure Island, Charles Van Zant — a retired Army lieutenant colonel and former school superintendent — was unanimously appointed in June 2025 after commissioners fired his predecessor following heavy staff turnover and resident frustration over FEMA permitting issues. Van Zant has prioritized rebuilding institutional knowledge and pursuing grant funding, as FEMA has yet to reimburse any of the city’s hurricane-related expenses.

Madeira Beach Fire Chief Clint Belk stepped into the acting city manager role in September 2025 after residents packed a commission meeting demanding the previous manager’s resignation. A 14-year city employee, Belk has moved key projects forward — including the long-delayed Johns Pass dredging — while a search for a permanent manager is underway.

All four leaders say their biggest ongoing concern is the next hurricane season, which begins June 1.

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