City of Thousand Oaks Accepts City Manager Resignation

The City of Thousand Oaks has finally accepted the resignation of City Manager, Phil Gatch. Flap previously reported the resignation here, here, and here.

The Ventura County Star has the story here:

After weeks of controversy sparked by allegations the Thousand Oaks city manager was being forced out, the City Council on Tuesday announced the end of Phil Gatch’s 38-year tenure with the city.

Voting 3-2, the council accepted his resignation, said City Attorney Amy Albano. Council members Andy Fox, Jacqui Irwin and Dennis Gillette voted to accept his resignation.

Councilman Ed Masry and Mayor Claudia Bill-de la Pena voted “no” in the closed session.

“I think Mr. Gatch deserved better, and he dealt with a very difficult situation, a very controversial situation, that he handled to the best of his ability,” the mayor said of the resignation.

At the special meeting, the council also announced the appointment of Scott Mitnick as interim city manager. Mitnick is the assistant city manager.

Earlier in the night, while watching the council members walk into the closed session, Gatch said, “It’s kind of a painful way to go.”…

In a split vote, the council turned down a motion by the mayor to hire outside counsel to investigate possible violations of city code…

The Thousand Oaks Council deserves a city manager that has the support of the entire council.

Move on Councilmembers.

Update #1

The Ventura County Star has an appropriate farewell editorial for Phil Gatch.

Check it out here.