The City of Burien has named Public Works Director Rod Steitzer as acting city manager following the City Council’s decision to place City Manager Adolfo Bailon on paid administrative leave.
City officials said no further details have been disclosed regarding the council’s action.
Steitzer began serving as acting city manager immediately, according to the city.
The appointment comes after the council voted 4-3 on Monday, April 13 to place Bailon on paid administrative leave and to direct the city attorney to identify an interim city manager.
Steitzer currently serves as Burien’s Public Works Director, overseeing city infrastructure, transportation and utility related operations. Public works departments typically manage roads, drainage systems, capital projects and maintenance of public facilities.
Steitzer joined the City of Burien in September 2024 as Public Works Director, bringing more than 30 years of experience in public works and civil engineering. Prior to coming to Burien, he spent more than two decades working for the City of Kirkland, according to the City of Burien.
In his role as Public Works Director, Steitzer oversees city infrastructure, including transportation systems, utilities and capital improvement projects. His work includes managing public investments in roads, drainage and other essential services.
City officials have said Steitzer emphasizes collaboration with elected leaders, regional partners and the community, along with a focus on maintaining reliable public services and long term infrastructure planning.
No timeline has been announced for how long Steitzer will serve in the acting role or what next steps the council may take regarding city leadership.
