Salinas City Councilmember Steve McShane will step down next month after 14 years on the dais. McShane made the shock announcement during Tuesday’s meeting, blaming “dysfunctional elected leadership in the City of Salinas.”
McShane elaborated on his comments Wednesday, according to KION. He brought up the controversy over his previous role as CEO of the Chamber of Commerce.
“I think certain members of the council have been critical of me and my role for the Chamber of Commerce. I think it's unfounded. I no longer work for the chamber and quite frankly I was acting on direction of our City Attorney and City Manager. I have no issue there. There are some members of the council looking to stir the pot. Whether it's levying lawsuits or complaints or adding to the work of the staff with investigations internally, that's on them. My departure from the council is prioritizing my family and quite frankly pushing back against that dysfunctional leadership. 'That which steps us back doesn't move us forward.’”
The councilman was likely referring to his colleague Andrew Sandoval, who filed a conflict-of-interest complaint with the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office against both McShane and Mayor Kimbley Craig. The DA has declined to take action pending the results of an investigation by the Fair Political Practices Commission.
Mayor Craig lamented McShane’s departure and thanked him for his many years on the council.
"Steve worked harder than anyone for Salinas and he accomplished a lot for our community, she said. "I commend him for prioritizing what matters most. I am so incredibly grateful for his service."