Former Councilmember Joe Citro Unloads on Council Chair Clendenin

TAMPA, FL — Former Tampa City Councilmember Joe Citro criticized Council Chairman Alan Clendenin in two Facebook posts, accusing him of trying to silence Councilwoman Lynn Hurtak during a public meeting and using his gavel to shut down disagreement.

Citro shared video clips with the posts and described Clendenin’s conduct as unprofessional. In one video, Clendenin told Hurtak to “STOP” because “I’M TALKING,” in a tone that one commenter described as “like a parent scolding a child.” In another video, Clendenin slammed down his gavel in protest after Councilmember Viera asked for a recess.

“A Council Chair should be setting the standard for respect, professionalism, and decorum,” Citro wrote. He described Clendenin’s behavior as a temper tantrum and accused him of using the gavel to suppress disagreement. Citro argued that the chairman should facilitate debate and respect fellow council members.

Citro described Clendenin’s actions as “juvenile and unprofessional.”

Citro’s criticism comes as he seeks to reclaim the District 1 council seat he lost in 2023. He filed in July to run for the seat held by Clendenin, according to Florida Politics. Citro served on the council from 2019 to 2023, finishing third behind Clendenin and Sonja Brookins in his reelection bid.

Hurtak, who is running for Tampa mayor in March 2027, announced in August that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and would undergo chemotherapy, the Tampa Bay Times reported. She said the diagnosis would not change her plans to serve on the council or pursue her mayoral campaign, though she might participate virtually during treatment.