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Paso Robles council appoints acting city manager; approves settlement with former manager
Summary
The Paso Robles City Council appointed Chris Huot as interim city manager and disclosed a settlement with former city manager Lewis. The council voted 4–1 to approve the settlement; Council member Bausch cast the sole dissenting vote.
Paso Robles — The City Council on Feb. 4 appointed Chris Huot as interim city manager and approved a settlement resolving a claim by former city manager Lewis.
City Attorney Elizabeth Hall reported the appointment during the council’s 6 p.m. report out from a closed session that began at 4 p.m. “I am pleased to announce that the council has chosen to appoint Mr. Huot as the interim city manager,” Hall said. The council directed staff to return with an employment contract for the interim role on Feb. 18.
Hall also reported that the council discussed and finalized a settlement with former city manager Lewis. The report states Lewis retired effective Jan. 26, 2025. Under the settlement, the city will pay Lewis $145,954.66 and the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (CJPIA) will pay $220,000. The agreement includes mutual waivers and releases and a prospective nondisparagement provision. According to Hall, the council voted 4–1 to approve the settlement on the terms presented, with Council member Chris Bausch dissenting. The signed agreement has been posted to the city’s website; the council indicated it will make no further public comment on the matter.
Hall said several closed‑session labor and appointment items regarding the interim and permanent city manager positions and anticipated litigation were discussed and produced no other reportable action.
The council’s decision to appoint Huot as interim city manager is effective pending formalization of the employment contract. Huot was present at the meeting and will lead the organization while the city processes the contract and any related labor matters.
The settlement disclosure during the council’s report out followed a Jan. 27 special meeting in which council direction led to the city disclosing the agreement consistent with Brown Act reporting requirements.
No additional comments were made in open session; Hall said the city would provide the signed settlement on its website for public review.
