National City council faces scrutiny over city manager dismissal and alleged collusion

The Special City Council meeting for National City on April 22, 2025, addressed significant concerns regarding the recent decision to review the city manager's position, which many attendees interpreted as a move towards his dismissal. The meeting began with public comments highlighting allegations of improper conduct and lack of transparency in the council's decision-making process.

One speaker expressed concerns that the city manager was being forced out due to his refusal to comply with certain council demands, particularly regarding an investigation that some believed was being covered up. This speaker pointed out potential violations of the Brown Act, suggesting that a collective agreement to dismiss the city manager may have been reached prior to the official council meeting.

The speaker also noted the rapid recruitment process for a new city manager, indicating that a contract had already been negotiated shortly after the recruitment opened. This raised suspicions about the transparency of the hiring process and the involvement of council members in discussions outside of public meetings.

Another public commenter, Marissa Cuevas, presented evidence of pressure exerted on city planning staff by a developer, suggesting a culture of undue influence that needed to be addressed. She urged the new city manager, once appointed, to investigate these claims of corruption and ensure accountability to the constituents of National City.

The meeting concluded with a call for transparency and adherence to proper procedures in the hiring of the new city manager, emphasizing the importance of public trust in local governance. The council's next steps will likely involve addressing these concerns and ensuring that the new city manager is equipped to operate independently and transparently.