Eagle Mountain public works chief resigns

EAGLE MOUNTAIN — Michael Wren announced Monday he will leave his position as Eagle Mountain public works director on Friday.

The announcement of his resignation came almost three months to the day after a public clash with Eagle Mountain's former administration roiled city employees on Wren's behalf as he was placed on administrative leave.

Wren was serving as the city's chief of staff when was placed on paid leave on Nov. 1 by Councilwoman Linn Strouse, who was serving as the city's interim mayor following the resignation of mayor Brian Olsen.

Wren has serving as the city's public works director since returning to work.

Strouse's action led to a well-attended meeting in which a majority of city employees expressed frustration over the decision, but Wren says he has "reconciled his differences" with the city.

The city has been accepting applications for a full-time city administrator to replace the former chief of staff position.

"For my part, I can say I leave with no hard feelings whatsoever," Wren said. "I believe Linn Strouse has attempted to do what is in the best interest of the city. I respect her for the difficult position she is in, and I believe we are leaving on good terms."

Wren said he intends to take a job in the private sector. He declined to elaborate on where he might accept employment, but said he has received several offers.

Wren said he did not apply for the city administrator position because he "felt it was best to move on." Plus, Wren said, the private sector has its perks.

"The pay is significantly better in the private sector," Wren said. "The private sector is faster paced and that suits my style a little better."

Wren initially worked for Eagle Mountain in its early days as a city engineer. He later left Utah and worked for an engineering company in Las Vegas, until Olsen asked him to return to Eagle Mountain. In May, 2006, Wren began working in the dual position of the mayor's chief of staff and the city's public works director.

In October, Olsen resigned after being charged with seven felony counts of misusing public funds. Strouse was chosen to serve as interim mayor until the City Council could choose a replacement for Olsen.

Don Richardson was named to the mayor's post in November and Strouse returned to her position as a city council member.