The details of why Bruce W. McClendon, Los Angeles County's chief land use planner, was fired last Friday are known to some, but they certainly aren't known to the general public because there hasn't been a lot of reporting on McClendon's dismissal. So while there's been speculation that McClendon's firing was payback for being a whistle-blower against the Board of Supervisors, here's one tipster's opinion. In an email to Curbed, he writes: "McClendon’s job security was whispered about by DRP staff in the corridors of the 13th Floor at Hall of Records for the last few weeks. It wasn’t exactly a surprise, but that doesn’t mean he didn’t have his support. He fought hard for the things that thought were important, but that doesn’t mean the Supervisors agreed with his agenda. Ultimately, I think the Supes’ had reservations about hiring someone from the outside (Florida). Sanabria has been the “Deputy Director” for over a decade." Sanabria is Jon Sanabria, who sent out an email letter this morning indicating that he has duties of Acting Planning Director. Letter after the jump.
From: Sanabria, Jon
Sent: Tuesday, January 20, 2009 6:36 AM
To: DRPStaff
Subject: Acting Planning Director
Importance: High
Dear Regional Planning Employees,
Please be advised that Bruce McClendon’s employment with the County of Los Angeles ended Friday January 16, 2009. Effective on that date, I assumed the duties of Acting Planning Director at the request of the Chief Executive Officer. During the next couple of weeks, I will be working closely with the Department’s management staff to ensure that the fine work of the Department continues without any interruption. As always, I will also be available to all Department employees.
The Regional Planning Department is blessed with an exceptional group of talented and productive staff. I am very proud to be associated with each and every one of you. I look forward to working with you to continue the exciting projects and process improvement efforts that the Department is undertaking to provide better community planning and land use, and customer service for the residents of Los Angeles County’s unincorporated communities.
Thank you in advance for your support and continued great work over the next several months.
Jon Sanabria
· I Urge You Not to Leap [City/Watch RonKaye.com]
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