Wildomar City Manager Dan York’s days are numbered.
York was placed on paid administrative leave Friday night, with City Clerk Janet Morales appointed to replace him temporarily. The vote was unanimous. The city council also directed the city attorney to draft a mutual separation agreement with York.
Third District Councilmember Joseph Morabito released an email that the city manager sent on the day of the closed session vote.
"I understand the decision you are about to take this evening," York said. “I am very appreciative and honored to have served the city faithfully the last dozen years. I recall 4 years ago talking to many that there is a season for everything, including the City Manager assignment. Thank you for allowing me to exercise my strengths of fiscal and operational management during my term as your City Manager."
York praised the city’s fiscal health and the “cohesive city team” he had helped to build.
“I feel you and the community are well poised to define and execute the next season,” he added. “I truly wish full success. Some day in the future, I look forward to reminiscing our past victories and celebrating the completion of your goals."
According to York’s email, completion of the separation agreement is expected this week.
One question the letter did not address is why York is being forced out of the job. Morabito said the public will never get an explanation in detail because it’s against the law.
“I hate how these things work, but I don't write the rules, and the rules most certainly apply to me and my big mouth as much as anyone else,” Morabito wrote in an online post.
York has served as the city’s top administrator since Feb. 1, 2022. He was previously the Assistant City Manager under Gary Nordquist before Nordquist retired.