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Council appoints Dr. John J. Murphy as city manager amid public concerns over his past roles
Summary
The council voted 5-0 to appoint Dr. John J. Murphy as Turlock city manager effective June 30, 2026 (or earlier), approving a compensation package with monthly salary of $22,425 for FY25–26 and projected FY26–27 salary+benefits of about $351,726; members of the public raised concerns about the candidate's prior controversies and urged delay.
The Turlock City Council voted 5-0 to appoint Dr. John J. Murphy to the position of city manager, with an employment agreement providing a monthly salary of $22,425 for FY25–26 and a monthly amount of $23,095 for FY26–27; combined salary and benefits for FY26–27 were presented as projected at about $351,726.
HR Director Jesse Domi summarized the recruitment process, the extensive vetting and background checks conducted by public-safety staff (including FBI/DOJ and military checks), and Murphy’s qualifications: a master of public administration, a doctorate in public administration (as stated by the HR director), more than 20 years of leadership experience including prior municipal and county roles and ICMA credentialing.
During public comment, several residents urged the council to delay the appointment after raising concerns including short tenures at prior jobs, litigation associated with a previous employer (Palmdale), questions about the proposed five-year term and the extent of indemnification and contract protections. Speakers asked for more public information and suggested an interim or shorter contract as an alternative.
Council members said the recruitment process included closed-session interviews and that staff performed law‑enforcement background checks. Multiple councilors and staff described contacting previous jurisdictions, which provided favorable references and highlighted accomplishments such as fiscal turnarounds and program delivery in prior posts. One councilor noted Murphy’s ICMA credential and said it would have been decertified if ethical violations had occurred.
A motion to appoint Dr. Murphy and approve the employment agreement passed by roll call: Council Member Abraham — Yes; Council Member Bixell — Yes; Vice Mayor Moniz — Yes; Council Member Phillips — Yes; Mayor Bublak — Yes. The contract was presented as approved as to form by labor counsel and includes a six-month performance review period; Mr. Murphy’s start date was discussed as possibly as early as the following Monday.
The council approved the appointment despite vocal public concern, and staff said they will proceed with onboarding and performance oversight as outlined in the employment agreement.
