MUKILTEO – A Bainbridge Island man who worked for decades in city government in California is serving as Mukilteo’s interim city administrator.
Lee Walton replaces former City Administrator Rich Leahy, who left his post for a job in Woodinville. Walton plans to fill the Mukilteo post until a permanent city administrator can be hired.
Walton spent nearly 35 years as a city administrator in California. Since retiring in the early 1990s, he has taken several temporary jobs at city governments in Washington. He recently served as interim city administrator in Arlington and Sultan.
“He’s experienced with working with cities in interim positions,” Mukilteo Mayor Joe Marine said.
Walton is expected to work full-time and will be paid $70 per hour, or $2,800 for a 40-hour week. Mukilteo also will pay $700 per month to the Prothman Company of Bellevue for Walton’s services.
The Prothman Company helps governments in the region find temporary and full-time employees.
Walton said he’s expecting to be in the position for possibly six months. He’s renting a room in Mukilteo during his time on the job.
Walton said he plans to keep an eye on the city’s day-to-day operations.
“I can be very objective,” he said. “Hopefully, when I leave, I’ll be able to leave a summary of suggestions and issues.”
He said he doesn’t believe his job will be too difficult. The city has a reputation for being well managed, he said.
“I don’t see any big changes or any big issues,” Walton said.
Reporter Scott Pesznecker: 425-339-3436 or spesznecker@heraldnet.com.
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