South Bay : JOB TURMOIL

The Redondo Beach City Council voted this week to eliminate the position of a city employee who raised charges of wrongdoing at City Hall during his unsuccessful March election bid for the city treasurer’s post.

Armando Herrera, a 25-year employee of the city, had alleged a series of indiscretions in Redondo Beach government during his campaign, claiming that some workers had been promoted over others more deserving of jobs. He was placed on paid administrative leave from his job as revenue supervisor in the treasurer’s office two weeks ago because of turmoil caused by his allegations, city officials said.

City Manager Bill Kirchoff said Thursday that his investigation into Herrera’s claims found “no substance to his charges.” But he said Herrera’s job was cut because it had become outdated, not for political reasons.

Due to staff reorganization, “The work for his position had decreased by at least 40%,” Kirchoff said, adding that Herrera will be eligible for another City Hall job if he qualifies.