An emergency public meeting to discuss who would lead the town of Marineland — the smallest town in Florida with a population of 9, according to the most recent census — turned ugly Wednesday with multiple attorneys, members of the public and the new mayor attacking each other.

The Town of Welaka is expecting to receive a decision this week regarding its request for an extension on a past-due financial audit. The outcome of the request could significantly impact the town’s financial future, as state funds may be withheld if the extension is not granted.