In a statement read aloud to the Bainbridge Island City Council at its Nov. 12 meeting, city manager Blair King announced his upcoming retirement, effective Jan. 30.

The city council will appoint an interim city manager to serve during the transition period and will launch a national search for a new city manager, per a news release. King was selected by the BI city council in March 2021, after serving a previous role as city manager for Coronado, CA. There are no term limits on the city manager position.

“I’ve worked for local government for 45 years — yes, I’m 68 years old. I’ve met my career goals,” said King during the city manager’s report. “The timing of my retirement is intended to allow the new council the opportunity to select the next city manager as soon as possible, and to begin the process to form the bonds necessary to become an effective team. Again, my gratitude, thanks, and appreciation.”

As a council-manager form of government, the city of Bainbridge Island relies on its city manager for many functions of governance. Among other responsibilities, the city manager prepares the budget, administers city code and policy, as directed by the city council, appoints and fires city employees, and serves as the city’s chief executive officer, per COBI’s 2024 manual of governance.

“Blair has led our city with wisdom, steadiness, and heart,” Mayor Ashley Mathews said in the release. “His ability to navigate complex issues, whether rebuilding infrastructure, guiding pandemic response, or advancing equity and climate goals, has made Bainbridge stronger and more resilient. On behalf of the city council and community, I thank him for his exemplary service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

King expressed pride in his accomplishments as BI’s city manager, citing the city’s “strong physical condition,” improved facilities, implemented council measures and stability of the municipal corporation. He also praised city councilmembers for their dedication to their role as leaders and to collaboration with their colleagues.

“I want to let you know I admire how hard this council works,” said King. “The amount of hours that you’ve put in are phenomenal, and also the respect you have when you hear from your colleagues in your work to work with each other.”

In turn, each councilmember praised King for his professionalism, collaborative approach and enthusiasm for the Bainbridge community.

“You took a lot of steps to bring this council together. I really appreciate the time you spent talking to each one of us individually and allowing us to express our opinions, and always having an open door. I’m gonna miss you,” said Councilmember Brenda Fantroy-Johnson.