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Sunnyside council removes City Manager Michael R. Gonzales; orders investigation report released
Summary
After a public hearing required by state law, the Sunnyside City Council voted to remove City Manager Michael R. Gonzales without cause and later authorized release of the internal investigation report. The council adopted rules for the hearing and heard public comment calling for transparency.
The Sunnyside City Council voted Oct. 20, 2025, to remove City Manager Michael R. Gonzales without cause and later authorized the public release of the city-paid internal investigation report, after holding a public hearing required under RCW 35A.13.140.
The hearing, opened under council-adopted rules allowing one three-minute comment per person and a one-hour cap, drew four registered speakers who urged transparency and the release of the investigation. Sharon Dolan of Sunnyside told the council, “Why are we here today? Because a majority of council decided to end the contract with Mike Gonzalez because of RCW 35A.13.140. He is entitled to a hearing.” Pandora Reel Nelson said she supported the council’s decision and alleged Gonzales had not complied with contract requirements; Nelson also stated, “He gladly accepted his $160,000 a year paycheck.” Toni Soto…
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