Embattled Menifee Mayor Mann submits his resignation

Story has been updated with additional information and comment from City Manager Rob Johnson.

More than two weeks before his successor will be sworn in to replace him, Scott Mann has resigned as mayor of Menifee.

A source told Menifee 24/7 Sunday night that Mann announced his resignation to fellow city council members and city staff members in an email sent about 3 p.m. Friday. According to the source, the email stated that Mann's resignation was effective Thursday, Nov. 17 -- a day after the last council meeting he officially conducted but nearly three weeks before his term is officially over. Mann confirmed to Menifee 24/7 that he has resigned, offering the following statement:

"I have stepped aside for personal reasons. I shared my departing comments at the last council meeting. I wish the city well."

Officially, Winter can't take office until the Registrar of Voters declares final voting official and Winter is sworn in at the Dec. 7 city council meeting. For the next 2 1/2 weeks, Mayor Pro Tem Greg August will serve as mayor in any official capacity that is required.

Reached by phone late Sunday night, August confirmed that he will be acting mayor until that time.

City Manager Rob Johnson is on vacation until Nov. 30. However, he did respond to an email from Menifee 24/7 Monday morning, confirming that he received Mann's resignation via email Friday afternoon. He said a press release announcing the resignation was scheduled to be sent out sometime Monday.

"City Hall was closed by the time the confirmation and proper notification to Council was completed," Johnson said. "A release of the information is typically done within 24 hours. However, this fell on a weekend, whereas City Hall was closed.

"The City intends to send out a press release today, the first work day after the resignation was submitted. Mayor Pro Tem Greg August will be acting mayor until the new council is seated on Dec. 7."

One person who was not notified was Winter, who didn't hear about Mann's resignation until notified by Menifee 24/7 Sunday night.

Traditionally, Mann would preside over the opening of the Dec. 7 before turning the gavel over to Winter. Now, as it turns out, Mann's comments at the Nov. 16 meeting will serve as his farewell address.

At that time, Mann did not refer to the $60,000 penalty imposed by the Fair Political Practices for misappropriation of funds, instead calling out those who criticize City Hall and saying, "I do not leave the council dais with any regrets."