PRESS RELEASE - City Manager Appointment
PRESS RELEASE
Tuesday, June 14, 2022
City of Medina
City Manager Appointment
At the regular meeting of the Medina City Council on June 13, 2022, Council unanimously approved the appointment of Stephen R. Burns as the City Manager. Mr. Burns assumed his duties as Interim City Manager on January 4, 2022, following the departure of Michael Sauerwein.
“I am honored and humbled to have been appointed as the City Manager,” stated Mr. Burns, “I look forward to continuing to work with the City Council and our amazing city staff to continue to lead Medina in a positive direction.”
Steve began his career with the City of Medina as the Chief of Police in September 2014. During his time as the Chief, Steve has made several positive changes in the police department by leading the department through two Washington Association of Sheriffs & Police Chiefs (WASPC) re-accreditations, stabilizing employment retention, and actively engaging with regional emergency response partners. As the Chief, he held roles with the NORCOM Governing Board, Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network (PSERN) Executive Board, Coalition of Small Police Agencies, Eastside Police Chiefs, and King County Police Chief Association. Steve is very active in the community and enjoys the positive interaction with residents. He looks forward to continuing a proactive and engaging environment for the community.
Prior to joining the City of Medina, Steve worked with State Patrol for 25 years, holding several leadership roles in Field Operations and Homeland Security. Steve’s background, experience and extensive leadership skills have prepared him with many valuable tools to be a great city manager and help lead Medina, with a goal of providing the best possible government experience.
In January 2022, Steve was appointed as the Interim City Manager by the Medina City Council. Following his appointment, the Medina City Council Personnel Committee implemented a Management Transition Plan, which involved interviews with city directors, staff and an evaluation of city and administrative needs. A formal community forum and interview was held on April 19, 2022.
At their meeting of June 13, 2022, the City Council approved an employment contract with Mr. Burns, as the Medina City Manager effective July 1, 2022. Council’s unanimous vote reflects our confidence in Mr. Burns. We appreciate his continued public service to the Medina community, are committed to supporting his success, and look forward to continuing to work with him.
