North Port lawmakers appoint interim city attorney

After North Port City Attorney Amber Slayton submitted her resignation, the city commissioners appointed a replacement. Deputy City Attorney Michael Golen will assume the interim role as of Sept. 26, according to a statement from the city.

Slayton sent her letter of resignation in August, letting officials know she plans to move back to Texas to be closer to family, the statement says. She has been with the city since 2016.

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the legal framework that supports our city's growth and well-being,” Slayton writes in a letter to commissioners. The city attorney’s office serves as the legal advisor for the city’s elected officials, staff, advisory boards and committees. The city attorney reviews all proposed ordinances, contracts and and resolutions to be considered by the commission.

City commissioners unanimously voted Sept. 11 to appoint Golen, who has been with the city for six years, to the interim role, according to a statement. He will receive a 10% pay increase, the statement says.

At a future meeting, commissioners will discuss the qualifications and salary range for a permanent replacement, and the city will select a recruiting firm to identify candidates.

Along with the city manager and city clerk, the city attorney is one of three charter positions in the city appointed by the commission.