City of Sunnyside appoints new interim city manager

An aerial view of the city of Sunnyside, Washington. Houses and trees are in view.
The town of Sunnyside, Washington, in the Yakima Valley, looking south toward the Horse Heaven Hills. (Credit: Annie Warren / NWPB)

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Sunnyside City Council appointed Jim Bridges as the new interim city manager during the regular meeting on Monday.

Bridges is taking over the position while City Manager Mike Gonzalez is on paid administrative leave, pending an investigation.

Council members voted four to three to appoint Bridges, with Mayor Dean Broersma and council members Julia Hart and Vicky Frausto voting against.

“Looking at this candidate’s background and resume, I really don’t feel like this is the most neutral option for us during this time, especially because there’s a lot of uncertainty from community,” said Frausto.

Councilwoman Julia Hart echoed Frausto during the discussion. No other council member debated the matter.

This is not the first time Bridges has served as interim city manager. He held the position back in 2009.