Newport Beach City Manager Dave Kiff announced his retirement last Sunday after two decades with the city, including nine spent as city manager. The announcement rattled a number of residents and former city officials who believe Kiff is being forced out before his time despite denials to the contrary.
Many of Kiff’s supporters used the public comment period during last Tuesday’s city council meeting to voice their distrust and displeasure.
"This action, if true, is a terrible affront and is deeply disrespectful to fellow council members and to the voters who elected them," said former Mayor Mike Henn.
Joy Brenner, who spearheaded an unsuccessful effort to recall City Councilman Scott Peotter, also spoke.
"I don't think you understand how much this community respects Dave Kiff," she said. "If I were in one of those seats this would not be happening because a majority of us would be giving Dave every acknowledgment and appreciation for the work he's done for us."
"It's not time for Dave Kiff to go. It's time for the four of you to go,” said former Assemblywoman Marilyn Brewer referencing Peotter, Kevin Muldoon, Will O'Neill and Mayor Duffield. “You have embarrassed yourself, and you have disgraced one of Orange County's finest cities. I call upon you, based on your recent behavior, to step down from the office you hold and save this city from further embarrassment."
The council sat quiet throughout most of the discussion, as Kiff’s departure was not on the agenda. But Muldoon finally shot back when Brewer accused members of holding secret meetings to pressure Kiff in violation of the Brown Act. Muldoon asked Kiff if the meeting Brewer referenced ever took place. Kiff said no. Muldoon then excoriated Brewer for spreading false information.
In spite of the rumors, Muldoon, O’Neill, Peotter, and Duffield say Kiff was not forced out of the job. Councilman Jeff Herdman has since issued a public statement saying he was not aware of any effort to oust Kiff either. But some just flat out refuse to believe it. It has become a “very divisive moment” for the city, said former Mayor Nancy Gardner.
Kiff first joined the city as assistant to the city manager in 1998. He has held the top administrator job since 2009. You can read more about his departure here and here.