GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – After nearly a 7-month search to fill the vacant City Administrator position, the City of Gridley, Mayor and Council have voted to install Mr. Cliff Wagner as our new City Administrator.

Wagner was chosen from a pool of recruits organized by the firm Bob Murray & Associates after 2 rounds of interviews, a complete background and medical check, and a third interview by a community citizens panel. The Gridley City Council voted 4-1 in favor of Wagner’s placement; the no vote recorded from Councilwoman Catalina Sanchez.

Locals may already be familiar with Cliff Wagner. He and his family have lived in the outskirts of Biggs for the last 15 years. He has expressed that this is his “Home” and that he plans to retire here. Hopeful, Mayor Bruce Johnson said, “From what I have seen” from the community and the discussions with locals Wagner has been having, including the presence of the Mayor of Biggs, Bo Sheppard, at Monday’s installation of Wagner as City Administrator, “they approve. I think the relationship between the two cities (Gridley and Biggs) is going to be mended…. really quick, and that’s been an issue for years.” 

Besides having roots within the two communities, Wagner brings with him an impressive, professional resume. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Political Science from California State University, Chico. Wagner retired from the U.S. Army in the rank of Major after 28 years in service in multiple positions including but not limited to, paratrooper, drill sergeant, company commander, tank gunner and for his service in Iraq, Wagner was honored with the United States Bronze Star, the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (among others).

Wagner is not new to politics and has been serving as the Chief of Staff to Orange County Assemblyman Steven S. Choi, Assemblymember 68^th district. At the May 17^th meeting of the Gridley City Council, Wagner said goodbye to 26 years of working at the California State Legislature, and to working with Assemblyman Choi to officially take on the role as the newest City Administrator. Wagner is not wasting time, and started work first thing Tuesday morning, May 18^th, at Gridley City Hall.

In a post online Wagner says, “I am humbled and thankful for the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead. I’m fortunate to be joining a city staff of very capable, professional people, and I sincerely look forward to getting to work first thing tomorrow morning!”