PHOENIX — Phoenix City Manager Jeffrey Barton is retiring later this year.
After working for the city for 25 years, including the past four as city manager, Phoenix announced he would remain on the job until November 14, 2025.
“I want to thank the Mayor and Council for their confidence in providing me this opportunity to serve the people of Phoenix,” Barton said in a press release. “It has been a privilege to work alongside the hardest working public service professionals in the country.”
The retirement announcement comes two days after the city confirmed to ABC15 that the city attorney had talked with outside lawyers regarding serious allegations that have been made against Barton.
“Our City Attorney has consulted with outside counsel regarding an anonymous email about Jeff Barton,” wrote Phoenix communication director, Dan Wilson, in an email. “The anonymous email was determined to contain uncorroborated and defamatory allegations that did not establish any verifiable facts; therefore no investigation was deemed necessary.”
ABC15 is not identifying the nature of the allegations but confirmed multiple city councilmembers are aware of them and have spoken to Barton about them.
Barton serves at the pleasure of the city council and mayor.
The city said the elected leaders will begin discussions in the coming weeks to select the next city manager.
Barton began working for the city in 1999.
Before being named the city manager, he held several high-ranking positions, including Budget and Research Director, Deputy City Manager, and Assistant City Manager.
In her own statement, Mayor Kate Gallego thanked Barton for his service.
“Having risen through the ranks from an entry-level position to City Manager, Jeff Barton has served the people of Phoenix for more than 25 years. One of the sharpest financial minds I know, he has helped navigate incredible challenges including the uncertainties of COVID-19 and ensured strong economic footing in a time of great change and opportunity,” she wrote. “On behalf of the people of Phoenix, and as a friend, I offer my sincere thanks.”
Contact ABC15 Chief Investigator Dave Biscobing at Dave@ABC15.com.
