The city of Palmer has a new interim manager

He will hold the job until a new permanent manager is hired.

The city of Palmer has a new interim manager
A sign on Palmer City Hall, pictured on May 13, 2024. (Amy Bushatz/Mat-Su Sentinel)

What you need to know:

  • Palmer Municipal Airport Superintendent John Diumenti was unanimously appointed interim city manager by the City Council Tuesday. He will hold the job while the city searches for a permanent hire. His appointment is effective immediately. 
  • Diumenti replaces former City Manager Stephen Jellie, who resigned last week amid a series of controversies, including allegations of labor law violations. Jellie held the job for 53 days. He will receive a $75,000 payout as part of his resignation agreement.
  • The search for a permanent city manager will begin this week, Palmer Mayor Steve Carrington said.

The Palmer City Council on Tuesday unanimously selected Palmer Municipal Airport Superintendent John Diumenti to temporarily oversee city operations while officials search for a permanent replacement for ousted City Manager Stephen Jellie.

Diumenti will serve as interim manager until a permanent replacement is hired, a process that could take months, officials said. His appointment is effective immediately.

Former City Manager Stephen Jellie resigned last week after a tumultuous 53-day tenure marked by allegations of labor law violations and rumors of planned cuts to the city's public safety budget.

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