Titusville City Manager Scott Larese has announced his retirement, effective March 31, 2025, marking the end of a ten-year tenure dedicated to the growth and development of the city. Mayor Andrew Connors shared his statement about the news in an email to Talk of Titusville, praising Larese for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to Titusville.

“Scott Larese has been an exceptional leader and a steadfast advocate for the growth and prosperity of Titusville,” Mayor Connors stated. “His contributions to our city have been invaluable, from guiding infrastructure improvements to fostering economic development. We are grateful for his years of service and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.”

The Titusville City Council is set to discuss the transition process at its next regular meeting, with further details about the search for a new City Manager expected in the coming weeks. Mayor Connors emphasized that Larese has committed to assisting in the recruitment of his successor and ensuring a smooth transition.

Challenges and Recent Controversies
While Larese’s tenure has been largely praised, recent tensions between Larese and newly elected City Council Member Megan Moscoso came to light during a January 28 council meeting. Moscoso raised concerns about transparency regarding several reclaimed water spills reported in January, including incidents affecting the Indian River Lagoon.

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Moscoso expressed frustration over the lack of direct communication from the city administration about such incidents, stating that council members often learn about issues through constituents or social media rather than official channels. “My biggest concern is we don’t know what’s going on. How can we make informed decisions on infrastructure improvements if we’re not being given the information?” Moscoso said.

Larese defended the city’s communication protocols, explaining that direct contact between council members and city staff can create confusion and conflict. “The employees don’t know who to answer if they’re getting overwhelmed with too many leaders guiding them,” he said.

Looking Ahead
As Titusville prepares for this leadership transition, the city faces the added challenge of competing with neighboring municipalities like Palm Bay and Cape Canaveral, which are also searching for city managers. Mayor Connors acknowledged the potential difficulties in finding a qualified replacement but expressed confidence in the council’s ability to navigate the process.

Larese, who previously served 25 years in the Army and held leadership roles in both the private sector and academia, leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service. In his retirement letter to the council, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve Titusville and pledged to support the city during the transition.

The community now looks to the future as the City Council begins the search for a new leader to build on the foundation Larese has established. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as the city works to maintain transparency and continue its trajectory of growth and prosperity.