Yorba Linda City Manager May Seek a Settlement

Yorba Linda City Council members said Thursday that they expect to receive a settlement offer from city manager Arthur Simonian, who has been under investigation for allegedly giving himself and his top managers secret bonuses. But Mayor John Gullixson says it’s unlikely the council would accept it.

“We haven’t received [an offer] yet, but [Simonian’s] attorney has said he is writing one up,” Gullixson said. “We wouldn’t necessarily close the doors on a settlement offer, but I don’t see much likelihood of us accepting one. We’re too far into the investigation.”

Councilman Gene Wisner said he told Simonian more than a week ago to submit a contract detailing the terms of his resignation.

“He asked if we would end the investigation,” he said. “Well, he didn’t give us a settlement offer then, and now it’s too late to stop the investigation.”

Simonian’s attorney, Craig Scott, would not comment on specifics of any possible offer. He did say that the discussions began “some time ago.”

The talk of a settlement offer came on the heels of the City Council’s 4-0 vote Thursday to order its special investigation team to notify law enforcement officials if it uncovers evidence of criminal activity by Simonian. It is the first time council members have given any indication that they suspect criminal wrongdoing.

Simonian was placed on administrative leave Aug. 16.