Just one year after accepting the position, Mark Wheetley has resigned as Fortuna’s city manager.

The move came one week after he was placed on paid administrative leave by the Fortuna City Council following his sentencing in a DUI case, his second in less than two years.

According to a release from the city, Wheetley submitted his resignation on Tuesday, the same day the city council met in a closed session to discuss the discipline of an unnamed employee.


“The city would like to thank Mr. Wheetley for his contributions during his employment and wish him success in his future endeavors” Mayor Sue Long said in the city’s announcement.

Wheetley was sentenced March 27 to three years’ probation and 15 days in jail after pleading no contest to a “wet and reckless” charge in connection with his July 13, 2017, arrest. His attorney Patrik Griego previously told the Journal that the court has approved SWAT (Sheriff's Work Alternative Program) for his client in lieu of jail time.

An earlier DUI arrest in January of 2016 sidelined what had previously been considered a likely successful candidacy for Fourth District Humboldt County supervisor.

Known for being active in the community, including Special Olympics, the former California Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist had also served 12 years on the Arcata City Council.

“It has been an honor to work with the dedicated professional staff and City Council at the City of Fortuna. I’m proud of our accomplishments and appreciate the support from every corner of the entire Fortuna community during my tenure,” Wheetley said in the city’s release on his resignation.

Fortuna Police Chief Bill Dobberstein had been serving as interim city manager during Wheetley’s paid leave, a post that will now be filled by Public Works Director Merritt Perry “until further notice,” according to the city.

Read the release from the city of Fortuna below:

Fortuna, CA – Fortuna City Manager Mark Wheetley submitted his resignation to the City of Fortuna effective April 3, 2018.
“The City would like to thank Mr. Wheetley for his contributions during his employment and wish him success in his future endeavors” said Mayor Sue Long.
“It has been an honor to work with the dedicated professional staff and City Council at the City of Fortuna. I’m proud of our accomplishments and appreciate the support from every corner of the entire Fortuna community during my tenure” said Mark Wheetley.
Mayor Long stated that “Public Works Director Merritt Perry will be the Interim City Manager until further notice. I am confident our staff will keep the City running smoothly while continuing to provide outstanding services to our citizens.”