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Lakewood appoints Doug Russell city manager; council sets early performance goal‑setting and prorated leave
Summary
The council voted unanimously to appoint Doug Russell as city manager effective Aug. 25, 2025, approving an employment agreement that includes a prorated 6 days of management leave for 2025. Council members agreed to define performance goals within the first 30–90 days and conduct at least one annual evaluation.
Lakewood, Wash. — The Lakewood City Council unanimously adopted motion 2025‑41 on June 16 to appoint Doug Russell as the city’s next city manager, with an effective start date of Aug. 25, 2025, and authorized execution of an employment agreement.
City staff told the council they negotiated terms including salary, relocation assistance and benefits consistent with senior management packages. Staff clarified one contract detail in response to council questions: the agreement’s 12 days of management leave would be prorated for 2025 so the manager would have six days on the books when starting Aug. 25.
During discussion members emphasized clarity on evaluation timing and objectives. The employment agreement requires an annual performance evaluation “at least once annually.” Councilmembers generally agreed to meet with the incoming manager within about 30–90 days to establish goals and performance objectives for the coming 12‑month period, then to carry out the formal annual review the following year. Several councilmembers said the evaluation form and timing could be revisited with the new manager and the council newly constituted in January 2026.
The motion to appoint Russell was moved, seconded and adopted without recorded opposition. The mayor said he would be prepared to sign the employment agreement the same evening.
