Pullman says Urban resigns he says differently
Pullman Administrator Mike Urban stepped down unexpectedly, but he insists he did not resign. The city announced this decision on Tuesday, claiming Urban left his post on Monday, which he disputes, stating he learned of his resignation from staff. Urban's departure follows a city investigation that cleared him of any allegations in a separate case involving former Pullman Police Chief Jake Opgenorth, who faced serious allegations but was ultimately not charged. Urban had been on leave since March after being implicated in the Opgenorth investigation. Following Urban's departure, Recreation Manager Megan Vining has been appointed as acting city administrator while the city searches for a permanent replacement.
Mayor Francis Benjamin acknowledged Urban’s positive impact during his tenure but refrained from commenting on the specifics of his resignation. Urban was appointed city administrator in 2021 after serving as the city's financial director. The situation highlights ongoing issues within the Pullman government, as the community now looks for stability in leadership.