City Manager, Now on Leave, Is Expected to Resign

Nearly 30 days into his leave of absence, City Manager Keith Till is expected to submit a letter of resignation during a closed City Council meeting today, a city official said.

Council members have declined to comment on reports that Till was fired at a closed session during its meeting July 10. City staff members received a memo the next morning, stating Till was taking an indefinite leave of absence.

A proposed separation agreement between Till and the city will be discussed at today’s meeting at 4 p.m., according to a notice to the council from city attorneys.

Council members also are expected to take action on a pending lawsuit against the city filed by Stephanie Stinson, the city’s senior accountant, a city official said.

Stinson filed a breach-of-contract lawsuit against the city and Till in October, contending the city wanted to reduce her benefits.

Stinson’s suit was filed one month after former City Treasurer Elizabeth Stoddard submitted a claim against the city alleging wrongful termination and emotional distress. Till said Stoddard’s termination was the result of “philosophical differences.” The case was settled out of court for $129,000 in March.

Till, 47, was hired in 1995. He was previously the city manager of San Marino.

Alex Murashko can be reached at (714) 966-5974.