Council returns City Manager Armando Villa to his duties

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Nearly four months after he was placed on paid administrative leave without explanation, Menifee City Manager Armando Villa was reinstated on Monday – again with no details being released.

Villa was placed on leave Oct. 18 “during the completion of a comprehensive and internal personnel investigation,” with no details released about the nature of the investigation. At the same time, Assistant City Manger Rochelle Clayton was placed on leave. She remains on paid administrative leave during a personnel investigation, said City spokesman Phil Southard.

Following a closed session held on Monday at City Hall, Mayor Bill Zimmerman read the following statement:

“Effective by a 5-0 vote, Armando Villa has been returned to his duties effective immediately.

“The leave was required to maintain the integrity of the personnel investigation and the preliminary findings allow for Mr. Villa to return to his duties.

“The City Council is especially grateful to Rebekah Kramer for her leadership during this time and for helping the City continue to move forward with our vital infrastructure projects, community programs, and other essential services that enhance the quality of life of our community.”

Kramer, who holds the title of assistant to the city manager, was named acting city manager following the Oct. 18 closed session, in which the City Council voted 3-2 to place Villa on leave.

An outside counsel representing the City’s insurance company handled the investigation. According to a City statement made at the time of the action, “This action is not punitive or disciplinary; it is simply to allow the personnel investigation to be completed.”

Assistant City Attorney Thai Phan had no comment following Wednesday’s announcement.