In her first week as Atwater’s new city manager, Janell Martin prioritized meeting with city leaders and community members.
The Atwater City Council appointed Martin in late August to replace former city manager Chris Hoem, who resigned in June. Martin has served as interim city manager since his resignation. Before that, she spent 12 years in various city departments, including the city clerk.
“My goal is just to provide a really steady, collaborative leadership and make sure that the city remains responsive to the needs of our community,” Martin said in a phone interview.
Hoem did not provide a reason for his departure in a resignation letter sent to council members, but he thanked the city for his two years of service.
Atwater’s city staff have adjusted to additional personnel changes after the police chief retired and the finance director also resigned. Mayor Mike Nelson declined to comment on the resignations. He and other staff have expressed support for the new city manager.
Moving Atwater forward
Martin was welcomed into the position during last week’s city council meeting. Councilmembers unanimously approved her position – and multiple community members stepped forward to endorse her appointment. Councilmember Brian Raymond, who represents District 4, was absent.
The room erupted in applause after the council motioned to approve her position.
“I’m so happy that the five of you decided to hire from within and within our city,” longtime resident Linda Dash said during public comment.
“I’m really happy because it’s a move in the right direction. It seems like we are getting some people in place that are going to help move this city forward,” another resident said.
Martin addressed supporters in a short speech.
“When I work, it’s for something. It’s for the people, it’s for the community, it’s for the council, it’s for the directors, it’s for the people,” Martin said, adding that she understands her decisions will have an impact for years afterward.
Sara Miller was expected to be appointed as the city’s new chief finance officer at the same meeting, but it’s unclear why the city skipped that agenda item. The FOCUS reached out to Miller for comment but didn’t hear back. The city is still searching for a candidate, according to Martin.
Martin’s contract will expire on Aug. 24, 2029. Her annual salary will be $193,747, not including benefits.
