St. Helens council approves interim city administrator agreement for Christy Worster

The St. Helens City Council on July 6 approved an employment agreement to hire Christy Worster as interim city administrator and authorized the mayor to sign the contract.

Council members said there were no conflicts of interest before discussing the agreement. Council members and staff described the document as a standard employment agreement that had been drafted and reviewed by Peter Hicks and city staff, including assistance from Jordan Ramos and Ashley. The council was told the compensation package sets pay at $100 per hour and includes combined housing and auto allowances; it does not include health insurance.

Counselor Gunnerson moved that the council approve the agreement and authorize the mayor to execute it on the city’s behalf; the motion was seconded, with the seconding speaker not identified in the record. During roll call or voice assent following the motion, Counselor Sundine, Counselor Hubard, Counselor Gunderson and the presiding officer indicated agreement and the council moved to conclude the meeting.

The contract was described during the session as an employment agreement rather than an independent contractor contract; the council noted the compensation and allowance structure and the absence of health benefits as the primary substantive terms discussed. No member raised a conflict of interest, and attendees thanked staff for preparing the agreement on short notice.

The special session lasted only minutes; after approving the agreement the chair thanked participants and adjourned the meeting. Staff were asked to remain on the line briefly after adjournment to address an unrelated technical issue.