Clayton city manager abruptly resigns

In a complimentary letter to the city council dated May 29, Ikani Taumoepeau abruptly resigned as Clayton city manager after only five months on the job giving no reason.

Taumoepeau was hired in December 2019 to replace former city manager Gary Napper who retired in July 2019 after 18 years with the city.

In an email to the Pioneer, Taumoepeau paid high regard to the council.

“I am blessed and honored for the privilege of serving as the City Manager in Clayton and wish City Council, staff and this great community the best of success going forward!”

He included a copy of his resignation letter in which details a long list of accomplishments including “managing the Olivia Project and entitlement process while minimizing legal exposure to the city.”

The agenda for the June 2 council meeting included an item to discuss how to move forward with hiring an interim and permanent city manager. However, in light of the protests expected downtown that day, the meeting was postponed “until further notice.”

Mayor Julie Pierce declined to comment on the resignation. As did Taumoepeau when asked why he resigned.