Salem, OR – In an unexpected turn of events, the City of Salem has reversed its earlier statement regarding the resignation of City Manager Keith Stahley. Initially, the city had claimed that Stahley had resigned at the request of the City Council. However, a clarification issued by Council President Linda Nishioka has contradicted this assertion, stating that she never asked for Stahley’s resignation.
The confusion began when Stahley, during an interview, claimed that a conversation with Nishioka led to the decision for his resignation. He described the discussion as a request from the City Council for him to step down. However, Nishioka firmly rejected this version of events, explaining that she did not ask for Stahley’s resignation nor did any other councilor make such a request.
This reversal has sparked a wave of concerns regarding transparency within Salem’s local government. Councilor Micki Varney has voiced her dissatisfaction, noting that the discrepancy between the city’s statements has led to a breakdown of trust among both the public and members of the Council. Varney has called for a thorough explanation of the circumstances surrounding Stahley’s departure, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and transparency moving forward.
Despite the ongoing confusion, the city has moved swiftly to appoint Deputy City Manager Krishna Namburi as the acting city manager while the Council works to find a permanent replacement. Namburi’s appointment is seen as a temporary solution as the city grapples with the fallout from the resignation.
The reversal of the city’s position on the resignation has only heightened the need for better governance and communication within Salem’s leadership. As the Council continues to address the situation, questions remain about the process leading to Stahley’s departure, and whether Salem’s residents will receive the clarity they seek.
For now, the city looks ahead to resolving the leadership vacuum and restoring public confidence in the governance of Salem. The controversy, however, is likely to remain a point of discussion as the city works to rebuild trust with its community.
