The City of Laguna Beach has announced a “mutually-agreed upon” separation with Shohreh Dupuis, who has served as city manager since 2021.
The deal will settle a hostile workplace claim Dupuis filed against Councilmember George Weiss (he has denied the allegations). She’ll walk away with nine months of severance plus $223,077 and a reimbursement of up to $10,000 in legal fees.
“Shohreh played a key role for our city during the COVID-19 pandemic and has helped deliver on wildfire safety, transportation and mobility programs, key property acquisitions and other important City Council priorities,” said Mayor Bob Whalen. “We appreciate her dedication through some very challenging times and wish her well as she enters the next phase of her life.”
Dupuis had faced some controversy during her tenure. In addition to her rocky relationship with George Weiss, Dupuis was criticized for a perceived lack of transparency. She was also questioned over a 2022 traffic stop, in which she name-dropped the city’s police chief. Dupuis was on the phone with the chief at the time. She later admitted to holding a phone while driving and apologized.
Earlier this year, Dupuis was the victim of a disgusting act of vandalism. Someone smeared feces outside her front door, all over the mailbox, planters and driveway.
Dupuis’ departure takes effect Sept. 1. She’s on leave until then. Assistant City Manager Gavin Curran will serve as acting city manager while the city explores a replacement.
Did you know? CaliforniaCityNews.org is home to the state's largest city and county jobs board. Search for jobs or list an opening here.