San Bernardino council faces backlash over controversial city manager hiring process

San Bernardino's City Council meeting on June 5, 2025, was marked by heated discussions surrounding the appointment of a new city manager and ongoing frustrations with city bureaucracy. The meeting highlighted significant community concerns about leadership accountability and the effectiveness of city staff.

One resident expressed deep dissatisfaction with the city's handling of compliance issues related to truck yards, claiming a lack of communication and leadership among city officials. This individual described a frustrating cycle of being passed between various staff members without resolution, emphasizing that businesses attempting to comply with regulations were still facing fines. The resident's comments underscored a broader sentiment of frustration with the city's bureaucratic processes and the perceived ineffectiveness of current leadership.

In contrast, another speaker, Alan Stanley, offered a more positive perspective, praising the mayor and city staff for their efforts in improving public safety and revitalizing downtown San Bernardino. He acknowledged the challenges the city has faced but expressed hope for future economic growth, urging the council to continue fostering a business-friendly environment.

However, the meeting also saw significant criticism regarding the recent hiring of the new city manager, particularly the process by which the decision was made. Several speakers voiced concerns about the transparency of the hiring process, noting that key council members were absent during the decision-making. Critics questioned the qualifications of the new appointee and raised alarms about the financial implications of the contract, which included a substantial salary and benefits package.

The discussions reflected a community divided, with some residents advocating for change and accountability, while others recognized the progress made under current leadership. As San Bernardino moves forward, the council faces the challenge of addressing these concerns while fostering a collaborative environment that encourages community engagement and trust. The implications of these discussions will likely resonate as the city navigates its future development and governance.