REEDSPORT — Embattled Reedsport City Manager Rick Hohnbaum announced he would be stepping down from his position, effective Aug. 15.

His resignation comes after the City Council gave him a less than satisfactory rating in his annual performance review, which took place in May.

In a prepared statement, Hohnbaum cited the deterioration of his working relationship with the council as the prime reason for his decision.

“I could no longer provide the level of service that this position requires and deserves,” he said.

The fact that Hohnbaum made his resignation public, during Monday’s City Council meeting, caught more than a few people by surprise.

“I had no idea he was planning to say anything public at this time,” Reedsport Legal Counsel Steve Miller said. “It was a bit of a surprise.”

Mayor Keith Tymchuk also was caught off guard by Hohnbaum’s action and emphasized he still has faith in Hohnbaum’s abilities.

“This was not my desire, nor do I think it was the council’s desire that Rick leave his position,” Tymchuk said during a break in the meeting. “Certainly, we all wish him well in the future and thank him for the service he gave to the city of Reedsport.”

Hohnbaum said he made his plans public because he wanted to be able to move forward.

“The council knew of my resignation over two weeks ago and it wasn’t made public,” Hohnbaum said. “I said something, because I didn’t think they would.”

Hohnbaum said that he and his wife plan to remain in the Reedsport area.

The council did not say when it will begin the search for a new city manager.