The City of Pullman’s City Administrator, Mike Urban, has been placed on paid administrative leave. Mayor Francis Benjamin confirmed this decision, which took effect on Wednesday, to Pullman Radio News. Benjamin stated on Friday that Urban was “out of the office” but did not provide further details, citing “employment policy.”

Urban released a prepared statement, indicating that he was placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation, the specifics of which have not been fully clarified to him. He denied any insinuations related to the investigation and expressed his intention to retain legal counsel to ensure a thorough and fair inquiry that would help restore his professional and personal reputation. Urban expressed eagerness to resolve the situation, stating, “The worst thing you can do to a workaholic is not let them work. I just want to get back to work.”

In the interim, Recreation Manager Megan Vining has been appointed as the acting city administrator.