Cypress has temporarily filled a leadership vacuum in the City Manager’s Office, but its challenges are far from over. Turmoil stemming from allegations of misconduct continues to plague the city as it gets ready to embark on a search for a permanent city manager.
Director of Finance Matt Burton was appointed Interim City Manager on Monday, August 25. The vote was unanimous. Burton is replacing Peter Grant, who served as Cypress’ city manager for 11 years before abruptly resigning last month. Grant’s resignation followed two closed-door sessions to discuss his job performance.
As City News reported previously, former city department director Doug Dancs has accused Grant of misconduct and called for his termination during a meeting in April. His public comments led City Attorney Fred Galante to cut him off mid-sentence. Galante reminded Dancs that he is subject to a confidentiality clause under the terms of a $180,000 separation agreement which he signed last year.
At last week’s meeting, two former city council members alleged that Mayor David Burke was behind Dancs’ controversial April appearance. Burke said those claims amounted to “conspiracy theories.”
Burton acknowledged the difficult circumstances surrounding his appointment, but expressed optimism about guiding the city through transition.
“I worked closely with Peter Grant for 11 years and I considered him a mentor and I appreciated all the guidance he gave me and I wish him nothing but the best,” he said at the August 25 meeting.
“But it’s also been a very challenging few months for city staff as well as the department directors and I appreciate the city council’s support in allowing me to assist on a temporary basis to see the city through this transition period.”
Read more at Voice of OC.