Why Another Resigned

BALDWIN PARK — John Hemer, former director of housing and economic development, said Wednesday that one of the reasons he resigned in April was the City Council’s growing involvement in day-to-day city affairs.

“From my perspective, this is a blurring of the distinction between establishing policies versus day-to-day administration of the city,” Hemer said.

He said he does not question the council’s right to become more involved. “That’s their prerogative,” he said, adding that it’s hard to say whether the council’s growing involvement is a more effective way of running the city. Hemer added that the main reason he decided to leave was that his new job as director of real estate for the Los Angeles Redevelopment Agency was a very attractive career move.

Last Friday, City Manager Ralph Webb resigned under pressure from the council. The council has appointed Administrative Services Director Michael Yelton as acting city manager.