Fresno deputy mayor Matthew Grundy is leaving City Hall. The reason? He says he’s heard from a Higher Power.

“I stand here at a moment where I’ve heard God yet again. This time He is guiding me to depart from my role as deputy mayor,” Grundy said in a city news release. “I find this guidance a bit curious. I love the people of Fresno. I love our mayor, our team, and my job.”

Grundy joined the administration when Mayor Jerry Dyer took office in January 2021. His role, listed on the city’s website, included the vague “implementing Mayor Dyer’s vision and initiatives.”

Specifically, his duties including advising on housing and planning department issues; and overseeing the Office of Community Affairs.

Grundy would also make community appearances and speak to the media on behalf of Dyer.

Taking on youth-oriented tasks, Grundy helped make Camp Fresno — a city-owned recreation camp near Shaver Lake — relevant again; as well as fostering a relationship with Chaffee Zoo.

Grundy earned $158,174 in base salary in his latest contract with the city, which was updated last January. He also received a $300 monthly vehicle allowance, as well as normal paid time off and health care benefits.

Grundy’s last day is Aug. 1.

Future Open for Grundy

Grundy, speaking to GV Wire, said he does not have any future job lined up.

“On paper, this is not the wisest thing to do,” Grundy said. He again referenced his calling from God. He plans to spend more time with his wife and six children.

“That is my next call,” Grundy said.

An Amicable Departure

Usually, a politician offers a news release about a staffer’s departure and says kind words, if the separation is friendly. That appears to be the case with Grundy.

“Deputy Mayor Grundy has been a Godsend to my Administration,” Dyer said. “His passion and talents are the very reason why the Camp Fresno, One Fresno Housing Strategy, and Youth Jobs Corp initiatives, as well as the Office of Community Affairs, have been so successful. Matthew has served me and this community with integrity and honor.”

Dyer also said the two bonded over faith.

“He will always be welcomed back into my administration should he choose,” Dyer said.

Prior to joining Dyer’s team, southern California native Grundy was the CEO of Habitat of Humanity Greater Fresno Area.

Read Grundy’s Letter to the Community