YORBA LINDA

The city manager crisis has cost local taxpayers at least $270,000 so far, and the costs are growing as the city continues to pay attorney fees, auditors and the cost of a second city manager.

According to a report released Tuesday by the city Finance Department, $126,239 was paid between August and February to the law firm Parker Covert and Chidester as special attorneys to fight City Manager Arthur C. Simonian in court. Administrative costs, $52,000 in auditor’s fees and payments to Interim City Manager Dan Miller add significantly to that amount.

The longtime chief executive, now on paid administrative leave, is embroiled in a legal battle with the city, which is suing him to recover as much as $300,000 in bonuses he allegedly paid himself without proper authorization. Simonian has denied any wrongdoing and is suing to get his job back.