Elk Grove City Manager Resigns at Council Request, Will Be Paid $297,053 in Severance
ELK GROVE (CBS13) - Elk Grove's City Council voted to get rid of its current City Manager and will pay her a severance of nearly $300,000.
Laura S. Gill was appointed to the position in May 2008. She announced her resignation Wednesday and will step down Friday, May 11.
The majority of the council voted to replace Gill during the April 11 closed session. She agreed and provided a notice of intent to resign immediately.
CBS13 requested a copy of the severance agreement. It shows the City of Elk Grove will pay Laura S. Gill $297,053.16 in severance. In addition to the severance payment, Elk Grove will pay her for all accrued annual leave and all accrued administrative leave. As part of the deal she can not appeal or contest her "separation of employment." Gill signed the severance agreement May 1st.
CBS13 asked why the Elk Grove City Council voted to replace Gill. We were told: "Ms. Gill is a contract at-will employee and can be dismissed for cause or no reason at all. The Council has communicated their interest in a change in leadership after nearly a decade."
READ ALSO: Elk Grove City Council Approves Tax Incentive for Planned Costco
In her resignation letter Gill wrote: "Thank you for the privilege of serving you and the citizens of Elk Grove for nearly a decade. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of a special organization that has valued responsiveness, customer service, and teamwork to deliver excellent services to our citizens and customers every day."
"We are a stronger community because of Ms. Gill's leadership at City Hall," said Elk Grove Mayor Steve Ly. "While the Council sees this as a time for change, we value the hard work and dedication that she has provided to the residents of Elk Grove for nearly a decade."
ALSO READ: Elk Grove City Council to Vote on Tentative Casino Deal
Jason Behrmann, the current Assistant City Manager, will serve as the Interim City Manager while the City Council recruits and fills the position.
