In a surprise move, the Clark County Council has voted not to renew County Manager Mark McCauley’s contract, which was scheduled to terminate at the end of the year.
Council Chair Marc Boldt held a special session on the matter Friday afternoon, and did not allow public testimony. He thanked McCauley for his work and noted the packed room of county residents and staff.
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“We don’t take actions lightly today,” Boldt said. “We take serving each and every employee and citizen very seriously. We do this today for the long-term future of the county.”
Boldt also said that he would not be sharing the reasoning behind the Council’s decision, out of respect for McCauley and his staff.
Other County councilors praised McCauley but said it was necessary to move in a different direction.
“I’ve appreciated his work and he loves his employees,” said councilor Jeanne Stewart on the decision to let go of McCauley. “But we need a different thrust in management and in leadership.”
After the vote, county employees lined up to hug McCauley and say goodbye to the county’s top executive.
“Today truly marks a sad day for all of us,” said Sam Kim, chief information officer for Clark County. “I have worked for many wonderful leaders, but by far Mr. McCauley has been the greatest.”
Starting immediately, Deputy County Manager Bob Stevens will be in charge.