Caleb Holder, WPTV

STUART, Fla. — Stuart is now on the hunt to find a new city manager after commissioners voted to fire Mike Mortell on Monday night, ending his two-decade run with the city.

The controversial decision came after a packed and emotional City Hall meeting where residents overwhelmingly urged commissioners to keep Mortell in his position.

"Two words come to mind on our discussion tonight," said resident David Sharfy. "First one is circus. Traveling company of performers. Spectacle that entertains a mass audience."

"Many of us elected you, not expecting something like this would happen, and have lost a lot of trust in those that we will not vote for again," resident Lila Wood said.

"If you have a problem with the way he's managing the city, sit him down," another resi

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