Longtime Santa Maria City Manager Tim Ness announced his pending retirement before the City Council on Oct. 18. After conducting their regular business, the council members retired to closed session to discuss how to fill Ness’ position. On Oct. 19, city officials sent out a press release stating Assistant City Manager Rick Haydon will become the new, permanent City Manager starting Dec. 31. He was unanimously appointed by the City Council in the closed session meeting. The City Manager serves as the chief executive officer and oversees the city’s departments and $135 million budget, under the direction of the City Council. According to the release, he directs administrative services of departments, prepares a balanced budget, hires department heads, advises and assists the council, and networks with civic leaders on the city’s behalf.
This article appears in Oct 20-27, 2011.