Shoreline City Manager Julie Underwood resigns; spouse takes position with Google in Mountain View, California

Julie Underwood, Shoreline City Manager
resigns position effective Oct 3, 2013

On Monday, August 5, the Shoreline City Council accepted the resignation of City Manager Julie Underwood.

Shoreline operates as a code city under the laws of the State of Washington with a council-manager form of government. As the governing body, the seven elected part-time City Councilmembers set policy and appoint a City Manager to implement policy.

Underwood was unanimously appointed by the City Council in February 2011 following a competitive search after City Manager Bob Olander announced his retirement. Underwood has been with the City for 11 years and prior to her appointment served as the Assistant City Manager.

Underwood’s resignation is due to her spouse accepting a position at Google in Mountain View, California. Todd Fiala, Underwood’s spouse, was recruited for a unique opportunity that they have decided to pursue.

“As I look back on my 11 years at the City of Shoreline, I feel honored and blessed to have been part of something very special. I am fortunate to have been actively involved in shaping an organizational culture that values teamwork and community engagement, takes seriously its mission to serve, and is focused on making a positive difference,” stated Underwood.

“While this news comes as a surprise to the Council, we are excited for Julie and her family and wish them well in their new adventure. Speaking on behalf of the Council, we thank Julie for her leadership and service to our community,” stated Mayor Keith McGlashan.

Underwood’s last official day is October 3, 2013, going beyond the notice required in her employment contract.

Over the coming weeks the Council will be reviewing how they would like to proceed with the recruitment of a new city manager, including the appointment of an interim city manager.