Wasco council silent on city manager replacement

The Wasco City Council called for a special meeting May 13 with one agenda item; city manager.

The meeting was closed session and once the council reconvened, the city attorney announced there was no reportable action. There has been no word on a selection process for a new city manager. Prior to Daniel Ortiz-Hernandez’ hiring in 2018, the city used an interim city manager, Larry Pennell.

After Ortiz-Hernandez had been with the city for one year, his contract was renegotiated for an additional two-year extension beyond the original contract, which would have ended in 2024. He also received a 0.3% salary increase with an annual salary at the time of $175,000. His increase for fiscal year 2019-20 placed him at $180,250 and his increase for fiscal year 2020-21 places his salary a little over $185,000.

Ortiz-Hernandez’ resignation has been delayed until after several pending issues for the city has been resolved. There has been no definite departure date announced.

Ortiz-Hernandez has accepted the position of city manager for Webster City, Iowa, from where he was hired in 2018.

“I am grateful for Daniel’s dedication and tireless commitment to our city over the years and wish him the best in his professional endeavors,” Mayor Alex Garcia said in a statement.