Banning Chief's Resignation Letter: 'Decision Was Not Easy'

BANNING, CA — The resignation letter submitted by Banning Police Chief and Interim City Manager Alejandro Diaz this week reveals few clues as to why he will no longer be working for the city after April 6. The letter, which is dated Monday, was received by the city on Tuesday — the same day that the city council accepted the chief's resignation.

Patch obtained a copy of the letter to the city's human resources director, Robert Meteau, which we've transcribed below:

Robert,

I am very honored to be working for the City of Banning and have learned much in the 13+ [sic] that I have spent here. However, it is with much sadness to inform you that this is my formal resignation from my position as Interim City Manager and Chief of Police for the City of Banning. My last day of employment will be April 6th, 2018.

This decision has not been easy, but I have decided that it is in the best interest of my career and future development. I will be available to assist in the smooth transition of the new staff into my current role.

I would like to thank my Council and all of our City and Police staff for their support throughout my career in the city of Banning. I want to thank the citizens of Banning for allowing me to serve them.

Sincerely,

Alejandro Diaz

Diaz's role as interim city manager is already complete, as the city council appointed the Deputy City Manager and Administrative Services Director, Rochelle Clayton, to fill the position for now. The city has not yet said anything about the search for an official replacement for a police chief or city manager.

SEE PREVIOUS:

• Banning's Police Chief, City Manager Resigns Abruptly: Report
  

Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone