BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — California City’s leadership faces another shake-up as Councilman Michael Hurles resigns amid controversy and a pending resolution to publicly censure him.
Hurles, the third council member to resign in three months, stepped down before the censure resolution was made public.
The resolution accused him of misusing city resources, engaging in unauthorized negotiations, displaying hostile behavior, and missing meetings.
Hurles said he resigned two and a half hours after receiving the resolution, believing the council would have voted 4–0 to remove him.
“As far as the city, I’m done with the city,” Hurles said.
The resolution also cited an incident where Hurles allegedly lunged at council member Smith during a closed session.
Mayor Hawkins stated, “Based on the conduct and behavior of former member Hurles, we all agreed that we needed to take action.”
Hurles attributed his absences to health issues from a rollover accident in July, saying, “And as far as I know, you’re allowed to be sick.”
With Hurles’ resignation, Creighton will assume his committee assignments and has been appointed as the new mayor pro tem.