Oceanside Announces City Manager Position

Anyone interested in becoming Oceanside’s next city manager has until June 17 to electronically submit their resume, cover letter and six professional references.

The city recently posted a four-page full-color brochure advertising the position on the city’s website, which also lists the position’s current salary at $271,437 plus a monthly car allowance of $500.

“The ideal candidate will be a visionary, strategic and energetic leader who can work with City Council, staff and key stakeholders to achieve economic growth and improve the quality of life for a diverse community,” the brochure states. “The successful candidate will have comprehensive skills in all aspects of public sector governance, a proven track record in successful community development and a strong financial acumen.”

Oceanside needs someone to help “promote new business ventures and build and maintain effective and collaborative relationships with business partners, staff, and regional and national elected officials,” he says.

Former city manager Deanna Lorson unexpectedly resigned on March 23 immediately after a closed city council meeting to discuss her job performance. His resignation letter signed that day said, “I have decided to devote more time to my family after a 34-year career in public service,” that the job had been “an honor and a privilege,” and she thanked the other city employees for their continued service.

Mayor Esther Sanchez praised Lorson as a “strong and effective leader” but declined to give a reason for his sudden retirement.

Deputy city manager Jonathan Borrego was named interim city manager on March 23 and the city council approved his new interim contract on April 6. Borrego has 34 years of experience in municipal administration and has worked in Oceanside for more than four years.

Lorson was named to the executive position of Oceanside in September 2019 after approximately four years with the city and previously held administrative positions for Riverside and other cities in California. She succeeded Michelle Skaggs Lawrence, who retired after more than 30 years as an Oceanside employee, including five as city manager.

Oceanside, with a population of approximately 175,000, is the third largest city in San Diego County, after the cities of San Diego and Chula Vista.

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