LBK Town Manager Howard Tipton announces retirement

Howard Tipton has announced his retirement but still has a few more months in his position as town manager.

The difficult decision to retire was described in a letter to Longboat Key Town Commission as something that was made with a high degree of regret as he deals with health issues. 

“Although managing this community is the least stressful job I’ve had in more than three decades, there is certainly some stress that comes with it, and I need to take all the steps I can to put myself in the best position possible to get back to better health,” Tipton wrote in the letter.

Tipton, called “Tip” by residents, commissioners and town staff, was hired as town manager in late 2022, starting in January 2023. He led the town through the 2024 hurricane storm season, leading recovery efforts while simultaneously helping the town recover financially.

Tipton will recommend his replacement to Town Commission at Monday’s meeting, but he will continue in his position through the summer, aiming for the new manager to begin in October.

“Over a 45-year career, it has been one of my great honors to lead this organization and be a part of this wonderful town,” Tipton said. “The leadership team of this town government is second to none (including our very capable assistant town manager, town attorney, department heads and managers) and I have been blown away by the abilities and commitment of the town’s employees who make a considerable drive every day to serve this community.”