The Unalaska City Council has selected a temporary replacement for Dave Martinson, who’s stepping down as city manager on Friday.
On Tuesday, the council unanimously approved a job offer for Nancy Peterson of Ione, Washington.
If she accepts, she’ll serve as interim city manager until mid-January or until the city picks a permanent hire.
Mayor Frank Kelty said Peterson has the right experience for the position, having served as Unalaska’s director of public works from 2007 to 2014.
“I think this is a good move," said Kelty. "She knows the community and she knows what goes on here, so I think this is a win-win situation.”
Meanwhile, the last meeting under Martinson’s tenure played out with little fanfare, despite weeks of tension regarding his resignation.
After serving as manager for almost two years, he resigned earlier this month, following disagreements with Mayor Kelty and the rest of the council.
During public comments, Port Director Peggy McLaughlin read a statement on behalf of former mayor Shirley Marquardt, who held the top job when Martinson was hired.
“I know you as a man who is 100 percent defined by integrity and honor," Marquardt wrote to Martinson. "I am a better person for having had the opportunity to talk, argue, agree, kibbutz, analyze, disagree, and laugh with you on the issues that challenge Unalaska. I wish you the very best.”
Martinson will receive $30,000 in severance pay and moving expenses, in addition to two weeks of free rent at his current city housing.
The City Council’s next meeting is scheduled for Oct. 10.
