Jack & Susan Simpson, 16707 Gerritt Avenue, Cerritos, California 90703-1442
Jack’s M | 562/896-5424; Susan’s M | 310/418-1035
www.trackdownmanagement.net | jack@trackdownmanagement.net
City Manager Newsletter By
TRACKDOWN MANAGEMENT
"Providing thread to help stitch together the fabric of the
City Management Community"
September, 2019
Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
Retired Norwalk City Manager Ernie V. Garcia. Ernie
replaced former City Manager Richard Powers in
1994 and retired as City Manager in 2011. Ernie
joined the Norwalk city staff in 1980 as Assistant
Recreation Director when the city took over the old
Southeast Parks and Recreation District. Ernie
worked for the District in 1978-1980 with the likes of
current Cerritos City Manager Art Gallucci.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
A list of dedicated women city government
professionals in cities listed alphabetically
starting with the City of Parlier is presented in this
23rd in the Trackdown series on women serving
California Cities. This issue begins with Parlier and
takes a look at cities through the City of
Petaluma alphabetically.
There are many highly qualified and dedicated
professional women serving California cities. The
list is impressive and addresses the rhetorical
question: Where are the women in city
management?
Again, we apologize up front to anyone we miss
and do not list. The failures of others to not post
profiles makes it difficult to be comprehensive.
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City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 2
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Parlier was incorporated in November, 1921 in
Fresno County. The 2018 estimated population in
Parlier is 15,286. According to the City’s web
page, the Parlier City Manager position is
currently vacant, and Dorothy Garza is the City
Clerk. The Finance Director is Kristi Miller, and
Felipa Tienda is the Accountant Tech. City
Manager Antonio Gastelum was continuing to
serve in February, 2019, though Federal
prosecutors allege that, while working for an
agricultural labor contracting business, he and a
business partner violated the law. Antonio has
pleaded not guilty to the indictment on fraud
charges.
Pasadena was incorporated in June, 1886. It is
the Home of the Rose Bowl and known
throughout the United States for the New Year’s
Day Rose Parade. The 2018 estimated
population is 141,371, ranking it the 9th largest
city in Los Angeles County. Steve Mermell has
served as the Pasadena City Manager since
February, 2016. Julie Gutierrez and Nicholas G.
Rodriguez are the Assistant City Managers, and
Matthew E. Hawkesworth is the Finance Director.
Fall Educational Summit
October 4 – 6, 2019
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Hotel
Rancho Mirage, California
For Information call the CCCA staff at 562-622-5533
http://www.contractcities.org
Sandra Armenta, Rosemead, President
Marcel Rodarte, Executive Director
http://rwglaw.com/
Roxanne Diaz, Steven L. Flower,
Peter M. Thorson, Kevin Ennis, Gregory
W. Stepanicich, Serita Young and
Craig Steele are among the City
Attorneys on the RWG staff.
RWG is committed to excellence in the legal
profession. The lawyers of choice for clients seeking
reliable, efficient, and effective legal counsel. RWG
delivers practical advice and solutions tailored to
the unique needs of public entities.
Working seamlessly across offices in Los Angeles, San
Francisco, Orange County, Temecula and the
Central Coast. The RWG team of experts provides
the full scope of public law services.
Roxanne Diaz is a member of the Board of Trustees
of the California City Management Foundation
(CCMF).
Call RWG at telephone No. 213-626-8484
http://www.willdan.com/financial/
Mark Risco, President & CEO;
Robert "Chris" Fisher; Gladys Medina; Anne Pelej;
Jennifer White; Dan Jackson; Tara Hollis;
Jeff McGarvey, are among the company
professionals
Willdan Financial Services (WFS) can enhance city
efficiency, effectiveness, and credibility by helping
to generate revenue and optimize its administration.
WFS President & CEO Mark Risco is a
member of the California City
Management Foundation (CCMF)
Board of Trustees.
Call Willdan Financial at
telephone No. 800-755-6864.
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 3
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
http://ekapr.com/
Englander Knabe & Allen is the fastest growing
public affairs firm in Southern California.
EKA’s partners Harvey Englander, Matt Knabe,
Marcus Allen, Eric Rose, Jeff McConnell and
Adam Englander provide strategic counsel.
They are expert in local government issues, from
land use to public safety, and they help
build public/private partnerships.
Matt Knabe is the Managing Partner. Matt is
a graduate of Pepperdine University. Matt
and his family are residents of Long Beach.
Matt’s contact information includes
Telephone Number: 213-741-1500, Ext. 520
Email: Matt@ekapr.com
https://www.icfauthority.org/
Debbie Smith, Executive Director
The Independent Cities Finance Authority is an
unaffiliated Joint Powers Authority (JPA) with the
goal of helping communities fund critical projects.
Independent Cities Finance Authority
Post Office Box No. 6740
Lancaster, California 93539-6740
Telephone No. 877-906-0941
Sylvia Ballin of the City of San Fernando is the
current President of the ICFA Board of Directors.
Jose Solache is the ICFA Treasurer, and Marilyn
Sanabria, Leticia Lopez, Emma Sharif, Ricardo
Pacheco, and Jorge Morales complete the Board.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Pasadena Assistant City Manager Julie Gutierrez
served as the Azusa City Manager starting in
2004 when City Manager Rick Cole exited to
another city manager post. Before coming to
Azusa, Julie worked for three years as the Chief
Financial Officer for the Pasadena-based
Center for Community and Family Services, a
nonprofit agency. Julie worked for the city of
Pasadena for three years as the city's Public
Works Director, From 1988 to 2003, she worked
for the City of Pasadena in a variety of positions
including Director of Public Works. Julie also
served as Director of Municipal Programs for a
private engineering consultant firm before
returning to Pasadena as Assistant City
Manager. Julie earned her bachelor's degree in
Theatre Administration at Pomona College and
an MBA at the University of La Verne.
www.stifel.com
Stifel was founded in 1890 and has become one of
the nation’s premier wealth management and
investment banking firms. Stifel’s passion of and
commitment to public finance is evidenced by its
unparalleled experience in providing bond
underwriting services to local agencies of all shapes
and sizes. Comprised of over 20 professionals
located in Los Angeles and San Francisco, the Stifel
team is ready and eager to assist agencies
throughout the state.
Contact (213) 443-5000 for more information on how
Stifel can assist today.
Among the professionals located throughout
California are Raul Amezcua, Sara Brown,
Jake Campos, Eileen Gallagher, Tom Jacob,
Vince Lazalde and Eric McKean
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 4
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Trackdown Posse Roster
Executive Level Posse Roster:
Wade McKinney, Retired Indian Wells City Manager
Michael J. Sedell, Retired Simi Valley City Manager
Larry F. Pennell, Retired City Manager, Wasco
Marcia Raines, Retired City Manager & Principal
with Public Sector Services
Kevin O’Rourke, KOLGS/PARS; Retired City Manager
Glenn Southard, Retired City Manager, Indio &
Claremont
Joe Tanner, Retired Vallejo City Manager
Denise Ovrom, Former City Manager &
Principal, HdL Companies
Charles G. "Guy" Huffaker, Retired Porterville CM
Vern Lawson, Retired, Lancaster
Ernesto Marquez, Former City Manager
Gary K. Sloan, Retired La Mirada City Manager
Richard D. Rowe, Retired City Manager
Robert T. Dickey, Former Walnut CM; retired South
Gate Public Works Director
Doug Dunlap, Retired City Manager, Pomona
Rita Geldert, Retired City Manager, Vista
Charles Huffaker, Retired City Manager, Porterville
David Jinkens, Retired City Manager
https://gonsalvi.com/
Joe Gonsalves said: "Lobbyist are like parachutes; you
don't need them often but when you do they had better
work."
The firm was founded by the late former California
State Assembly Member Joe A. Gonsalves. Until his
passing, Joe, his son Anthony D. Gonsalves and
Anthony’s son Jason Gonsalves served as the first
three generation lobbying firm in Sacramento.
Anthony, Jason and Paul Gonsalves
are expert local government lobbyists.
The firm represents fifty-plus cities and is
a key player in city legislation.
Call the “Gonsalvi” at
Telephone no. 916-441-0597
925 L Street, Suite 250 Sacramento CA 95814
Maywood City Manager Jennifer E. Vasquez and
South El Monte City Council Member
Gracie Retamoza at a
California Contract Cities Association Event.
Trackdown Posse Roster:
Gregory Korduner, Retired City Manager
Howard Chambers, Retired Lakewood City Manager
Dave Carmany, West Covina, Interim City Manager
Ken Bayless, Ret. GM LA Vector Control & Ret. LASD Chief
Don Penman, Retired City Manager, Arcadia
Sam Olivito, California Contract Cities Association
Dr. Bill Mathis, Mathis Group
Roy Pederson, ICMA Past-President
Dale Geldert, Retired CDF Director
Gary Milliman, City Manager, Brookings, Oregon
Doug Dunlap, Retired City Manager, Pomona
Jim Lewis, Pismo Beach City Manager, Pres. CM/LCC
Kevin Duggan, ICMA & retired City Manager; Past Pres.
CM/LCC
Rod B. Butler, Port Hueneme City Manager
Ray Harris, Ret. County Official, fmr Hawaiian Gardens CM
John F. Shirey, Retired Sacramento City Manager
Ray Taylor, Retired City Manager, Westlake Village
Lee C. McDougal, Retired Montclair City Manager
Ray Silver, Retired City Manager, Past Pres. CM/LCC
Ron Stock, City Manager, Weed
Mark Scott, Indio City Manager
Dr. Carlos A. Urrutia, Retired Rocklin City Manager
Anthony D. Gonsalves, Joe A. Gonsalves & Son
Jason Gonsalves, Joe A. Gonsalves & Son
Paul Gonsalves, Joe A. Gonsalves & Son
Don Powell, Retired City Manager
Jeff Mathieu, Big Bear Lake, City Manager
“In this game, if you’re not getting
better every day, then you’re falling
behind.”
---Ryan Vogelsong,
San Francisco Giants
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 5
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Former Pasadena City Manager Cynthia Kurtz
retired in 2008, but has continued to keep her
hands in public service working as a consultant
and in interim posts. Cynthia began her public
service career in 1976 in Portland, Oregon, and
she went to work as a City Planner in Portland in
1977 (1977-1981); Street Light Manager (1981-
1985); and Administrator of Transportation
Planning & Finance (1985-1987). She joined the
Pasadena city staff in 1987 as a Capital Projects
Administrator. Cynthia became the Acting
Director of Public Works in 1990 and the Director
of Public Works in 1991. In 1996 the city added
Assistant City Manager duties and responsibilities
to her plate, and in 1998 she was appointed
Acting City Manager, and she became City
Manager later that year (1998). Since
retirement, Cynthia has served as Interim City
Manager in Covina and Santa Ana and as an
Ethics Advisor Consultant to the City of Vernon.
She also served for a time as the President and
CEO of the San Gabriel Valley Economic
Partnership. She is a well-respected public
management professional. Cynthia earned a BS
from Pennsylvania State University and an MA in
Transportation and Urban planning from the
University of Iowa. In 2007 Cynthia received a 30-
year ICMA Service Award. She served as the
President of the City Managers Department of
the League of California Cities in 2007.
http://www.hdlcompanies.com/
Telephone No. 714-879-5000
HdL was founded in 1983 by former City Manager
Robert "Bob" Hinderliter, who successfully
championed legislation allowing independent
verification of State Board of Equalization records.
HdL expanded and improved with the help of a
partnership with former City Manager
Lloyd de Llamas, the firm’s Executive Chairman.
Andy Nickerson is the President of the firm.
HdL Companies offers diverse services that include:
allocation audits, economic analysis and program
software regarding Sales Tax, and Property Tax, and
Economic Development Services.
Office: 120 South State College Boulevard
Suite 200
Brea, California 92821
A 1980s Archive picture of former Assembly
Members Frank Vicencia and Sally Tanner flanking
former City Manager Jack A. Simpson.
“Never permit the pressure to exceed the
pleasure.”
–Joe Maddon, Chicago Cubs Manager
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 6
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Here is a 1980s archive picture of the late-Rolling Hills
City Manager Craig Nealis and Marlene Tomlin
Towns when they served on the executive staff in
the City of Bellflower. They were videotaping an
Annual Liberty Day Parade.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Kathleen Blomo started her career in 1979
working as a Recreation Supervisor for the City
of Pasadena. In 1987 she was appointed
Assistant to the Director of Community Services
and in 1988 she became a Management Audit
Specialist. Kathleen worked as a Pasadena
Program Coordinator in 1989-1990 before she
took a Management Assistant post with the City
of Chino in 1990. Kathleen worked her way up in
the City of Chino organization: Assistant to the
City Manager (1992-1995); Deputy City
Manager (1995-1997); Director of
Redevelopment (2008-2009) and Assistant City
Manager/Community Services Director (2009-
2011). Kathleen earned a BA and MPA from
California State University. In 2010 Kathleen
received a 20-year ICMA Service Award.
http://www.kosmont.com/
Founded in 1986 by former City
Manager Larry J. Kosmont,
Kosmont Companies, a certified
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and
certified Small Business Enterprise
(SBE), has earned a national
reputation and is recognized as
expert in real estate, financial advisory and
economic development services. The Kosmont
Companies are committed to bringing public,
private, and non-profit organizations together to
help communities flourish.
Call and learn how South Gate earned a $5.1 million
Real Estate Bonus.
Mailing Address: 1601 N. Sepulveda Blvd., #382,
Manhattan Beach, California 90266
Telephone: 424-297-1070 | Fax: 424-286-4632
Market Analyses
Kosmont Companies thoroughly research the
potential for a city’s future development to be self-
sustaining. Kosmont Company experts will determine
whether the market holds enough existing or
potential demand for development to be viable.
Names of other women discovered with a
Pasadena connection or background include:
Michelle Bernal; Shauna Clark; Bekah Cooke;
Valerie Gibson; Patsy Lane; Jhoanna Gorricet-
Rojo; Joy Guihama; and Candy Jara. Again, we
apologize to those deserving of recognition who
we missed.
“Half the lies they tell about me
aren’t true.”
“A nickel aint’ worth a dime
anymore.”
---Yogi Berra
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 7
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Paso Robles is a City in San Luis Obispo County
incorporated in March, 1889. The City’s
estimated 2018 populations 32,212. In 1864, the
first El Paso de Robles Hotel was constructed and
featured a hot mineral springs bath house. In
1866, following the arrival of the Southern Pacific
Railroad, work began on laying out a town site.
Tom Frutchey is the current Paso Robles City
Manager.
Marlaine Sanders is the
Administrative Services Director.
Marlaine joined the Paso Robles
city staff in 2011. After serving as
Human Resources Manager, she
became Interim Administrative
Services Director in July, 2017 and
Human Resources Manager, and she became
the Director in May, 2018.
Sarah Johnson-Rios is the new
Assistant City Manager since
August, 2019. She had been
serving as Community
Development Administrator for
the City of Raleigh in North
Carolina (November, 2018-July,
2019). Previous to that, Sarah
worked for the City of Santa Monica as
Administrative Services Officer, leaving to go to
the Raleigh position. Sarah worked as a Project
Coordinator for the City of Chula Vista (May,
2006-July, 2008), and was a Fulbright Scholar
before that. Sarah earned a BA from Emory
University, and attended graduate classes at
Princeton University.
Shonna Howenstine, Community Outreach and
Tourism Coordinator is listed in the City
Manager’s Office.
www.chwlaw.us
Expert Public Agency Legal Services. Committed to
counsel that is helpful, understandable, and fairly
priced. CH&W has offices in Pasadena and Grass
Valley in the Sierra Foothills, CH&W represents public
and private clients throughout
California in municipal law.
Michael Colantuono is Managing
Shareholder. Michael currently serves
as City Attorney for the City of Grass
Valley.
Members of the CH&W firm serve as City Attorney or
General Counsel in: Auburn, Barstow, Calabasas,
Grass Valley, Lakeport, Ojai, Sierra Madre, and
Yountville and more.
Call telephone No. 530-432-7357 or 213-542-5700.
https://www.wolfhousing.com/
Former City Administrator
Wesley Wolf, Founder
Telephone No. 909-345-7849
Wolf & Company Inc., founded in 1993, provides
municipal consulting services, program
administration and oversight; & insurance advisory
serves to state and local governments, housing
finance agencies, not-for-profit corporations,
insurance companies, mortgage bankers,
investment bankers and institutional investors in the
tax exempt and taxable municipal market.
Wolf & Company is register with the SEC and MSRB as a
municipal advisor.
Municipal Advisor Tammy Ofek
1408 Copper Mountain Drive
Diamond Bar, California 91765
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 8
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
http://www.nwfg.com/
A Woman-Owned Firm:
Newcomb Williams Financial Group (NWFG) is a
woman-owned affiliate of an investment banking
firm providing underwriting and financial advisory
services to public agencies, including school
districts, and non-profit corporations.
Experts in mobile home park financings, certificates
of participation, general obligation bond financings,
tax allocation refunding, revenue and expense
projections modeling, utilities and energy financings
and implementation of special tax methodologies.
Pam Newcomb,
Janees Williams and
William D'Allaird are
among the firm's
professionals.
Telephone Number: 760-860-0222
6842 Embarcadero Lane
Carlsbad, California
https://www.mmasc.org/323/2019-Annual-
Conference
November 13 – 15, 2019
Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort
The MMASC Annual Conferences is the group’s
signature event and premier training conference.
Nicholas S. Gonzalez, Ontario, MMASC President
“It’s unbelievable how much you
don’t know about the game you’ve
been playing your whole life.”
---Mickey Mantle
City of Walnut City Manager Rob Wishner and his
wife Shelly at the “new” Los Angeles Coliseum for a
University of Southern California football game.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Patterson was incorporated in Stanislaus County
in December, 1919. Patterson is known as the
“Apricot Capital of the World,” and holds an
annual Apricot Fiesta in June. The 2018
estimated population is 22,352. Ken Irwin, former
Director of Engineering, is the City Manager and
Helen Stange is the Executive Assistant who also
serves as a Human Resources Assistant.
The Human Resources Director is Dionysia Smith,
and Lakisha Callum is the Human Resources
Analyst. Dionysia became the Patterson Director
of Human Resources in July, 2016. She earned a
BA and MPA from the University of San Francisco.
Lakisha joined the city staff as an Accountant in
2012. She previously worked as a Financial
Analyst for a private firm in San Leandro.
Minerva “Minnie” Moreno served as the
Patterson Finance Director for five-year, and
joined the Patterson city staff in January, 2005.
Minnie left Patterson in March, 2016 to become
the Finance Officer for the Municipal Utilities
Department in the City of Stockton. She began
her career in January, 2003 as a Senior Account
Clerk for the City of Modesto. Minnie is an
alumnus of California State University, Stanislaus.
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 9
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Perris was incorporated in Riverside County in
May, 1911. The city is named for Fred T. Perris,
Chief Engineer of the California Southern
Railroad. The Perris area was originally part of
San Diego County, but in 1892 it was transferred
to the newly created Riverside County. Richard
Belmudez is the City Manager and Nancy
Salazar is the elected City Clerk.
Clara Miramontes is the Perris
Assistant City Manager and in
charge of Development Services.
Clara began her public service
career as a Principal Planner for
the City of Riverside in 1999. She
worked there for 11-years, and
joined the Perris city staff in
December, 2010 as the Director of
Development Services. Clara replaced Director
Brad Eckhardt, who was tragically killed in a
traffic accident. While retaining the Director
responsibilities, Clara was named Assistant City
Manager in April, 2017. She earned a BS in urban
and regional planning from California State
Polytechnic University, Pomona, and an MPA
and MBA from California State University, Long
Beach.
2019 Annual Conference & Expo
October 16 -18, 2019
Long Beach, California
http://www.cacities.org/Education-
Events/Calendar
https://www.munienvironmental.com/about-us/
MuniEnvironmental, LLC (Muni Environmental) is an
expert team of educated and experienced
professionals providing consulting expertise in the
Solid Waste, Recycling and Storm water Industries.
Jeff Duhamel,
CEO/Principal Consultant
Trieu Le,
Project Manager/Consultant
The firm provides consulting services
to cities and other government
agencies attempting to implement
mandated regulatory requirements,
as California strives to reach the recycling goal of 75%.
Telephone: 562-432-3700
3730 East Broadway, Suite EF
Long Beach, CA 90803
www.usi.com
Experience the USI ONE Advantage® and learn how
their Public Entity Practice can help manage the
risks of public sector organizations, providing
improved protection and cost control.
USI has developed sophisticated employee benefit
programs for public entities for more than 30-years.
USI helps agencies design innovative benefit
solutions and provide benefit education to
bargaining units.
For more information contact Gary Delaney or
Kristin Yokoyama at (424) 390-0000
USI Insurance Services
Administrative Assistant to Gary Delaney and Team
Mayra Noriega mayra.noriega@usi.com
Office: (424) 390-0010 |
Email: ga[email protected]
Hawthorne Boulevard, Suite 600, Torrance, CA 90503
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 10
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
https://www.tripepismith.com/
Tripepi Smith & Associates fields a professional team
that brings a strong background in pursuit of new
and innovative approaches and skills in marketing,
and workshops in communications training.
Contact Ryder Smith or one of his colleagues at
626-536-2173
Ryder Todd Smith, Founder and
President of Tripepi Smith &
Associates
Among other outside activities, Ryder
serves on the Board of the Rose
Institute of State and Local
Government at Claremont McKenna
College.
Tripepi Smith is a provider of marketing, technology
and public affairs consulting services.
Marketing – Technology – Public Affairs
Tripepi Smith & Associates
Post Office Box No. 52152
Irvine, California 92619
Duarte Deputy City Manager Karen Herrera at a
“Proof of Life” lunch in Southern California.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Sabrina Chavez is the Perris Director of
Community Services and Housing. Sabrina
began her public service career as a Program
Manager for the City of South Gate in
November, 2001. She then joined a private
planning firm and did contract work in the Cities
of Montebello, Huntington Park and Perris.
Sabrina joined the Perris city staff in August, 2003
as the Assistant to Associate Planner. She was
promoted to Housing Division Manager in
December, 2008 and she became the Assistant
Director of Housing and Community Services in
November, 2012. Sabrina earned a BA from
California State University, San Diego, and a
Master’s in urban planning and policy, and a
Master’s in social work from the University of
Southern California (USC). She is a graduate of
Saint Paul High School in Whittier.
http://www.pars.org/
Since 1984 the PARS team has provided retirement
services designed specifically for each public
agency's unique needs aiming to provide superior
employee benefits while improving management
effectiveness, reducing costs, and simplifying
administration.
PARS can craft customized solutions; provide
agencies guiding through the process to achieve
bottom-line results; and redefine goals and
objectives.
Mitch Barker is the PARS Executive Vice President.
Call PARS at Telephone No. 800-540-6369
Kevin O’Rourke, Senior Consultant
Telephone No. 707-249-5356
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 11
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Women Professionals In
Cities Listed Alphabetically
From the City of Parlier
Dr. Grace I. Williams served as the Perris Director
of Planning & Economic Development from
November, 2017 until August, 2019. She is
currently a self-employed consultant. Grace
earned a BS and Doctorate in public policy,
planning and development from the University
of Southern California (USC), and she earned an
MS from the University of La Verne.
www.brandywinedev.com
Former Artesia City Manager Jim Barisic founded
Brandywine in 1994. Jim and his three sons
Brett Whitehead, Mark Whitehead and David Barisic
direct Brandywine Homes.
Projects are now selling in Anaheim, Arcadia,
Monrovia, Norwalk, Torrance, Yorba Linda, Baldwin
Park, coming soon are projects in Yorba Linda, Long
Beach, La Puente and Whittier.
Call Brandywine at 949-296-2400
Jim Barisic of Brandywine Homes
chats with Long Beach
City Manager Pat West
Brandywine Homes Corporate Office
16580 Aston Street, Irvine, California 92606
Renaissance Plaza
Stanton, California
A Brandywine Homes
Develolpment
Siberian Husky Lilo and two-year old Koa.
Petaluma was incorporated in
April, 1858 in Sonoma County.
The 2010 census put the city’s
population at 57,941, and the
2018 population estimate is
61,917. Peggy Flynn is the City
Manager in Petaluma, and
Scott Brodhun is the Assistant
City Manager. Peggy came to
Petaluma earlier this year from her position as
the Assistant City Manager in the City of Novato.
Peggy began her public service career as a
Communications and Government Affairs
Manager, and Special Projects Manager for the
San Jose Redevelopment Agency in 1998. In
2004 she joined the Santa Clara Valley Water
District as their Communication & Community
Relations Manager. After working as the
Executive Director of the Downtown
Bloomington Association and some self-
employment between 2004 and 2009, Peggy
became the Community and Government
Relations Manager for the Sonoma County
Agricultural Preservation and Open Space
District in 2009. She joined Novato in 2012 as
Assistant to the City Manager and was
appointed Assistant City Manager in 2017.
Peggy earned a BS from San Jose State
University. ***
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 12
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
http://www.pars.org/
Public Agency Retirement Services
PARS is one of the few industry providers of retirement
and “other post-employment benefits” (OPEB)
services that works solely with public sector
clients. PARS works to provide public employee
retirement enhancements, programs to pre-fund
retiree healthcare plans, and design early retirement
incentive programs for counties, cities and school
districts. PARS specializes in providing public entities
with local control of their tailored plans while assuring
the safety and security of their funds.
Public Agency Retirement Services (PARS) offers a full
spectrum of retirement programs tailored to public
agencies. The ultimate goal is to enable public
agency clients to operate more effectively via
innovative retirement programs that address specific
organizational needs. Since 1983, PARS has been
highly successful working hand-in-hand with each
public agency client throughout all the phases of the
program's operation, from design and
implementation through ongoing administration.
PARS administers hundreds of retirement programs
that cover hundreds of thousands of plan
participants in hundreds of cities, counties, school
districts, community college districts, county offices
of education, and special districts.
PARS Plans and Programs include:
• GASB 45 Post Retirement Healthcare Funding Plans
• Retirement Enhancement Plans
• Alternatives to Social Security for Part-time
Employees
• Retirement Incentives
• Matching Programs
• Special Consulting Projects
The PARS approach is high quality, hands-on services
for the long term. PARS is not a broker of packaged
retirement products who disappears after the sale.
With PARS, once your retirement program is
established, PARS is there for the duration.
PARS plans and programs offer these advantages:
Flexibility in investment, benefit, and design choices
Security in safeguarding your assets
Control at the local level
Savings from labor and benefit costs
Service from an experienced and dedicated team
at PARS
Integrity based on a long term commitment to
helping serve the public interest
This era of pension reform is a perfect time to
explore options with the friendly PARS staff. Here are
a few key contacts ready to help in California:
Mitch Barker
Executive Vice President
(800) 540-6369, ext. 116
Mike Graves
Senior Consultant
(800) 540-6369, Ext. 127
Jennifer Meza, CEBS
Supervisor, Consulting
(800) 540-6369, ext. 141
Ryan Nicasio, CEBS
Vice President, Consulting
(800) 540-6369, ext. 134
Eric O’Leary, CEBS
Senior Vice President
(800) 540-6369, ext. 124
Kevin O'Rourke
Senior Consultant
(800) 540-6369, ext. 127
P: (707) 249-5356
Rachael Sander, CEBS
Manager, Retirement Programs
(800) 540-6369, ext. 121
Dennis Smith
Senior Consultant
(800) 540-6369, ext. 127
Phoebe Tan
Manager, Plan Enrollments
(800) -540-6369, ext. 142
Maureen Toal, MPA, CAPPP**
Vice President, Public Affairs
(800) 540-6369, ext. 135
Dennis Yu, MBA, CEBS
Senior Vice President
(800) 540-6369, ext. 104
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 13
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
Former City Managers Ken Caresio and
Larry Kosmont at “Proof of Life” Lunch.
Picking Up the Pieces:
Oceanside Assistant City
Manager Deanna Lorson has
been selected to replace
retiring City Manager Michelle
Skaggs Lawrence. Deanna has
worked in several California
cities. She is a former Assistant
City Manager in Riverside (2011-
2016). Deanna began her
public management career as
an Intern in the City of Redlands
in 1988. She worked as an Assistant Planner in Corona
(1989-1993) and she worked for the Economic
Development Agency in Riverside County )1994-
2009). She was Development Director in the City of
Riverside (2009-2011) before becoming Assistant City
Manager. She joined the Oceanside city staff as
Assistant City Manager in February, 2016. Solvang
City Manager David Gassaway, hired to replace City
Manager Brad Vidro, has resigned after only five
months on the job. In April, City Attorney Dave
Fleishman also resigned after serving the City for
nearly 21-years. David previously served as the
Assistant to the City Manager and Community
Development Director in the City of Indian Wells.
Mountain View City Manager Dan Rich will retire in
December after serving with the City for the past 8-
years. Dan previously served as the Campbell City
Manager (2005-2011); Assistant City Manager in
Belmont (2001-2005); Assistant to the City Manager in
Sunnyvale (1996-2001); and Management Analyst,
also in Sunnyvale (1992-1996). Rich began his career
as a Legislative Assistant to U.S. Senator Alan
Cranston (1987-1990). He earned a BA from the
University of California, Berkeley and an MPP from
Harvard University Kennedy School of Government.
In 2017 Rich received a 25-year ICMA Service Award.
“The great thing about baseball is there’s a
crisis every day.”
---Gabe Paul
Pomona is ramping up its recruitment effort to find a
new City Manager. City Manager Linda Lowry will
retire at the end of the year. Linda has been the
Pomona City Manager since 2008. She was the
Assistant City Manager from 2006 to 2008. Previous to
joining the Pomona city staff, Linda served as the
Diamond Bar City Manager (2001-2006). Her first
public service position in California following her
relocation from Josephine County, Oregon was
Assistant Finance Director in Bellflower in 1987. She
served as Bellflower CAO in 1993-1997. In 2018 Linda
received a 35-year ICMA Service Award.
A 1980s Archive Picture of Trackdown’s
Susan and Jack Simpson
Rancho Palos Verdes City Manager Doug Willmore
announced that he will retire in November of this
year. He is leaving public management for a position
in the environmental industry. He joined Rancho
Palos Verdes in March, 2015 after positions in Bell
(2012-2015), El Segundo (2011-2012), and Salt Lake
County, Utah (2004-2011). Turlock Administrative
Services Director Kellie Jacobs-Hunter, 52, submitted
her resignation effective September 26. Kellie joined
the Turlock city staff in March, 2015. She is leaving
Turlock to accept the Finance Director position in the
City of Atwater.
City Manager Newsletter By Trackdown Management Page 14
August, 2019 Volume No. 12: Issue No. 14
borah Collins began her working career in Sausalito as an Administrative Assistant
with an information technology and services firm in 1983. In 1984 she went to work
as a software support technician for an on-line software systems company in Chico.
She joined the Chico city staff in 1994 as Community Services Officer (CSO), and in
2001 she took a Management Analyst with the Chico Police Department. In 2009
she moved to the City Manager's Office in a Management Analyst post. Deborah
earned a BA in social work from California State University, Chico, and an MS in law
from Champlain College.
More Pieces Picked Up: Sand
City is in the final stages of
identifying a new City
Manager. Retired Monterey
City Manager Fred Meurer
served as Interim City Manager
until June 30, 2019. The
municipal code has been
amended to change the position from City
Administrator to City Manager. Todd Bodem resigned
as the City Administrator at the end of last September
after serving 4-years with the City. Since Fred
vacated the post, City Clerk Linda Scholink has been
Acting City Manager. Oceanside City Manager
Michelle Skaggs Lawrence is retiring from her position
as City Manager in the Fall. She has worked for the
City of Oceanside for the last 30-years, staring as an
Administrative Analyst. She was appointed Interim
City Manager in February, 2015. Fresno City Manager
Wilma Quan announced the appointment of Lupe
Perez as the city’s new Economic Development
Director. She is currently with the City’s Downtown
Revitalization Department. Lupe has managed the
downtown effort since June, 2014. She previously
worked 16-years with the now-defunct Fresno
Redevelopment Agency. Yountville Finance Director
Maria Ojeda will join the Executive Team as Assistant
City Manager on September 2. She previously
worked as the Deputy City Manager in the City of
Pleasanton. Maria is an East Bay native. She earned
a BA from Notre Dame de Namur University in
Belmont, and an MPA from the University of Kansas.
Turlock City Manager Robert Lawton abruptly
resigned following a closed City Council meeting to
evaluate his performance. Robert joined the Turlock
city staff as City Manager in July, 2018. Prion to that
he served as County Administrator in Yates County,
New York (September, 2016-June, 2018). He worked
as Assistant County Administrator for Sonoma County
in 2016. Palmdale City Manager Jim Purtee provided
testimony in the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility
Act hearing at the California Infrastructure and
Economic Development Bank, also known as iBank.
Palmdale officials are supporting a private activity
High-Speed Rail Bond that could provide rail service
between Las Vegas and Victorville, with a
continuation of the line into Palmdale. Long Beach
Manager of Government Affairs and
Communications Diana Tang is joining the Long
Beach Mayor’s Office as Chief of Staff. She will
replace Mark Taylor who will resign to work in the
private sector. Assistant City Manager Sean
Charpentier, 46, left his East Palo Alto position on
August 27. Community and Economic Development
Director Patrick Heisinger is serving as the Interim
Hats off to City Managers Matt
Bronson, Grover Beach; Jim
Bergman, Arroyo Grande;
and Jim Lewis, Pismo Beach
for participating in a San Luis
Obispo County South County
Regional Leadership Program.
Assistant City Manager in East Palo Alto. Three Muslim
inmates are suing the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s
Department, alleging they were denied access to an
observant diet and proper religious garments and
texts, while the same accommodations were made
for inmates of other faiths. The lawsuit was filed by the
Council on American-Islamic Relations. Dogs are
now prohibited all year on the Museum Trail, South
Lykken Trail, North Lykken Trail and Araby Trail. City
staff will warn and educate first-time violators, but
anyone caught a second time could face fines of up
to $500, Palm Springs Assistant City Manager and
Director of Engineering Marcus Fuller said.
Apparently, dogs are no longer allowed due to
efforts to protect Peninsular Bighorn Sheep, which
perceive dogs as predators and stress-inducers,
according to experts.
SHORTS: *Hanford, where Mike Olmos is the Interim
City held a community meeting to discuss what
qualities residents would like to see in a future City
Manager. *Susan and Jack Simpson of Trackdown
Management were recently seen at the Las Brisas
Restaurant in Laguna Beach. *Lydia Munoz of the
Bellflower City Manager’s office participated in the
Santa Monica Classic 10K. *According to City
Manager Scott Collins, a 1-percent sales tax increase
in Morro Bay will generate about $2 million annually.
*When 57-yesr old Bob Lawton resigned as the Turlock
City Manager, Municipal Services Director Michael
Cooke was named Interim City Manager. *Former
Banning Human Resources Director Dr. Robert J.
Meteau Jr. joined the City of National City staff as
their new Human Resources Director in February.
*Santa Fe Springs City Manager Ray Cruz,
former Coro Fellow in Northern California,
previously served as the City Manager in
Rolling Hills (2013-2018), Director of
Community Services in Carson (2001-2013)
and Assistant to the City Manager in
Glendale (1986-2001). *Retired Pasadena City
Manager Cynthia Kurtz has also served as Interim City
Manager for the Cities of Covina and Santa Ana,
*David Biggs is currently the City Manager for the City
of Hercules, and previously served as City Manager
in Carson, Tustin and Morgan Hill. ***
