DWP chief resigns, debate over selection process begins

DWP General Manager, Ron Deaton has tendered his resignation. On medical leave since suffering a severe heart arrhythima during a July trip to Costa Rica. The much respected 42 year veteran of City Hall leaves at a time of flux for the city owned utility.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa:

On behalf of the entire City, I want to thank Ron Deaton for dedicating a brilliant 42-year career to Los Angeles.

From his first day on the job at the age of 22, this is a man who literally did it all for Angelenos. He kept the lights on through fires and blackouts. He balanced the books. He helped build parks, police stations and libraries. He kept us united as one city.

More than that, Ron always embodied the idea that public service is the highest calling.
We wish Ron and his family the greatest happiness as they begin an exciting new phase in their lives.

Speculation has been rampant over who would replace Deaton. Former DWP Commission President, H. David Nahai, resigned from the commission to position himself for consideration as the new G.M.

Yet, others such as Councilwoman Jan Perry would like to initiate a national search for the best candidate to suceed Deaton. Just before the release of Deaton"s letter of resignation, The Water and Power Board, all appointees of the Mayor, voted to offer Deaton a $267,000 "Separation Agreement". This would act as a buyout of the two years remaining on Deaton's contract.

http://www.dailynews.com/breakingnews/ci_7291302

Los Angeles utility chief resigns - Los Angeles Times