But it did not take me long to realize that Rolling Hills Estates is where I want to be. I pursued a career in local government because I wanted to play an integral role in the delivery of essential services, assist the community in planning and preparing for the future, and make the lives of other people better. I enjoy the team atmosphere that has been fostered over the years in this tight-knit community, where we work together to achieve common goals.
What makes this City so great – and one of the main reasons I have chosen to remain here for the past 19 years – is the smart and talented people who live and work in Rolling Hills Estates. I appreciate the active role that residents play in preserving the way of life and unique character of this special community. The parks, open space, horse arenas, bridle trails, bicycle paths, local shops and businesses, neighborhoods, outstanding schools and libraries, iconic Pepper Trees and three-rail white fencing are all things that define and distinguish Rolling Hills Estates and make it a place to call “home.” Whether it’s serving on a City Commission or Committee, getting involved in your Homeowners’ Association or Neighborhood Watch group, or speaking up on local issues, your participation is essential to sustaining a safe, desirable and engaged community.
Over the years, residents have consistently elected representatives to the City Council who serve because they want to give back to a community that has given them so much. They serve on a voluntary basis, with no compensation, to make decisions and establish policies that maintain and enhance the quality of life for residents, businesses and visitors.
Assisting me in carrying out those policies, as well as the City’s administrative responsibilities and day-to-day operations, is our hardworking and dedicated staff. I could not be more proud to lead an amazing and capable team of individuals who are committed to providing a high level of service to the community.
Speaking of which, there are a few announcements to share about some staff changes at City Hall:
- Alexa Davis has been promoted to Assistant City Manager. She has served the City for nearly five years and will now oversee the Community Services Department, which includes park maintenance and recreation programs. She will also continue to manage our public safety and community outreach efforts; solid waste and recycling programs; and personnel and risk management.
- David Wahba, who has been with the City for 29 years, is now serving in a dual role as the Director of Community Development and Public Works. He will oversee advanced planning projects, such as the General Plan Update, along with infrastructure maintenance and improvement projects.
- Jeannie Naughton, who came to the City four years ago, has been promoted from Senior Planner to Planning Manager and is now responsible for supervising the daily operations of planning administration, including permit issuance and code compliance.
- Mike Goldsmith, a 22-year City employee, has been promoted to Maintenance Superintendent and will take on additional responsibilities related to contract administration for services, such as tree trimming and landscape maintenance.
- New to the team is Community Services Supervisor Cynthia Morquecho, who came to us from the Town of Colma, a small city in San Mateo County. She is responsible for planning the City’s recreational programs and special events, and is quickly getting up to speed as demonstrated by the success of our recent Tracy Austin Doubles Tennis Tournament and The Hills Are Alive Race.
- Assisting Cynthia is our Community Services Coordinator Daniel A-Haja, who moved to the full-time position earlier this year after previously serving as the City’s part-time Senior Recreation Leader for three years.
These are just a few of the 25 terrific full- and part-time staff members you may interact with at our City parks and facilities, at our annual events, or when you visit or contact City Hall.
For the past 29 years, Doug Prichard has skillfully steered the ship as our City Manager. I am grateful for his leadership, mentorship and friendship. After nearly 40 years in public service, he is now enjoying a well-deserved retirement, no doubt spending his free time catching waves and strumming along on his ukulele. Doug has left behind – in addition to big shoes to fill – an incredible legacy of sound fiscal management, creative thinking and consensus building. I look forward to working with the City Council and the community to build on this legacy as we address the City’s current needs and prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
