Camas mayor unexpectedly steps down from role
May 12, 2021
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CAMAS, Wash. (AP) The mayor of Camas, Washington, is stepping down after winning the position as a write-in candidate in October 2019.
Former Mayor Barry McDonnell released a statement Tuesday announcing his resignation from the position, effective immediately, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported.
“Over the last few months, it has become clear to me that the needs of this Council, City and community are such that balancing a full-time job and family, while running the day-to-day operations as Mayor in our form of government is not sustainable for me,” he wrote.
McDonnell won the election against incumbent Mayor Shannon Turk after a monthlong write-in campaign. His term had been set to end in 2023. In his statement, McDonnell thanked staff and residents:
Camas mayor resigns effective immediately
Published: May 11, 2021, 6:14pm
Share: Barry McDonnell is pictured outside of the Camas Public Library on Friday, Nov. 22, 2019. (Alisha Jucevic/The Columbian)
Barry McDonnell, who was elected mayor of Camas after a whirlwind write-in campaign in 2019, announced Tuesday that he is stepping down to spend more time with his family.
“Over the last few months, it has become clear to me that the needs of this council, city and community are such that balancing a full-time job and family, while running the day-to-day operations as Mayor in our form of government is not sustainable for me,” McDonnell said in an emailed statement.
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Camas’ top administrator might pack his bags soon, less than a year after starting the job.
City Administrator Jamal Fox has been named a finalist for the city manager gig in Gresham, Ore., according to a news release from that city. Fox is one of three finalists selected from a field of 37 candidates.
A statement from the city of Camas released by spokesperson Bryan Rachal said that Fox “has been pursued by multiple municipalities.”
“Knowing what type of leader Jamal is, we completely understand why,” the statement reads. “Jamal’s skills, talent and leadership have been much appreciated and they have been an important part of the success the city has experienced during the pandemic. While we are saddened to possibly lose Jamal to another city, we’re also excited for the opportunity for him and his family.”