Hayward council reports settlement and accepts city manager resignation; closed session disclosures released

The Hayward City Council reported out from a closed session held June 24 that it unanimously approved a $150,000 settlement in De Herrera v. City of Hayward and accepted the resignation of City Manager Dr. Anna Alvarez effective that evening.

Acting City Attorney Michael Vigilia said the council convened in closed session at 5:30 p.m. under the Ralph M. Brown Act to discuss several legal and personnel matters. On the De Herrera matter the council voted unanimously to approve the settlement; the motion was made by Councilmember Siropp and seconded by Councilmember Goldstein. Vigilia said no other reportable action was taken on other litigation items that had been on the closed-session agenda (Etcheverria v. City of Hayward and Nava v. City of Hayward). He said the council discussed three anticipated litigation matters but took no reportable action.

Resignation and severance: On the personnel item the council accepted the resignation of Dr. Anna Alvarez from her position as city manager, effective that evening. Vigilia reported the council voted 5–0 (with two members absent at the closed session) to accept the resignation. Under the terms disclosed, Dr. Alvarez will receive five months of severance totaling $171,148.43, less applicable withholding and deductions; the separation was described as amicable and without cause.

Council's report: Vigilia concluded the closed-session report by noting other items were discussed without reportable action. The council subsequently proceeded with its open meeting business, which included appointing an interim city manager and other agenda items.