City Council Memorandum
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL DATE: JUNE 16, 2026
FROM: MAYOR PRO TEM ST EVEN ROBILLARD WARDS: ALL
SUBJECT: WAIVE THE SU NSHINE ORDINANCE FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE
EMPLOYMENT OF JAMES JOHNSON TO SERVE AS CITY ATTORNEY
ISSUE:
Waive the Sunshine Ordinance for consideration of the Employ ment Agreement between the City of Riverside and James Johnson, setting forth the terms and conditions for their employment as the City Attorney.
RECOMMENDATION:
That the City Council consider waiving the Sunshine Ordinance pursuant to Riverside Municipal Code Section 4.05.050(D)(1)(a) dete rmining the need to take immediate action in consideration of the City Attorney Employment Agreement with James Johnson. With full quorum, five affirmative votes required; with less than full quorum, four affirmative votes required.
DISCUSSION:
Sunshine waiver justification: The City Attorney, who is also a Charter Officer, is quickly needed as the City is entering the 2026/27 Fiscal Year. The City of Riverside has been operating with an Interim City Attorney since October 2024. Mr. Johnson has a contractual obligation with his current employer to provide notice of separation. This action is necessa ry to meet that obligation, accelerate his starting date, and r epresent the City of Riverside in all legal matters. This action cannot wait until the next City Council Meeting scheduled for 6/23/2026.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action.
Prepared by:
__________________________
Steven Robillard, Mayor Pro Tem
CC Date: 6-16-2026
Item No.: 7a