City Council Selects Yamamoto as City Manager
On June 28, 2022, the Mill Creek City Council voted 5 to 1 to appoint Martin Yamamoto as the City Manager, marking a significant step for the city’s leadership. Yamamoto, who has been serving as the Interim City Manager and previously held the role of Deputy City Manager, is recognized for his effective management during a transitional period. Mayor Brian Holtzclaw expressed optimism about Yamamoto's leadership, noting his ability to "steady the ship" and his competence in guiding the city forward. The council plans to have City Attorney Grant Degginger negotiate an employment agreement for Yamamoto, to be reviewed in a future meeting. His collaborative management approach, which emphasizes communication among departments, is expected to enhance operational efficiency.
Additionally, Yamamoto's experience as a fiscal manager in Seattle lends credibility to his role in Mill Creek's ongoing rebuilding efforts. He also made strategic decisions, including appointing an Acting Chief of Police soon after stepping into the interim role. With a focus on improving residents' quality of life and the business environment, Yamamoto is poised to lead Mill Creek towards achieving its long-term goals.