RAPID CITY, SD — After a career in the city attorney’s office of over 20 years and a role as City Attorney of over a decade, attorney Joel Landeen has been removed from his position in a move by Mayor Jason Salamun

In a release yesterday, Salamun thanked Landeen for his years of service, however following reactions to the news the mayor has provided a statement where he explains the removal, saying “It was my decision to make a change in leadership in the City Attorney’s Office. I determined it was time to bring fresh perspective, renewed energy, and stronger execution to our priorities“.

While what specifically, if anything, caused this removal is unclear as of the time of writing, unsubstantiated speculation has abounded within the community since the announcement. Though usually vocal about the workings of city politics, Alderman Stephen Tamang has chosen to remain at a professional distance from the removal, saying on Facebook “I only had the opportunity to work with Joel for one year, but in that time I came to know him as sincere, honest, and steadfast in his service“.

This removal is effective immediately, and while the city searches for a permanent replacement for Landeen he will be succeeded by attorney Carla Cushman. “We will begin our search for a new City Attorney soon, but we will not settle until we find the right leader for the job,” said Salamun.