News Summary
Oliver Chi, the Irvine City Manager since December 2021, has announced his resignation to take on a new role in Santa Monica, starting July 2024. During his tenure, Chi oversaw major developments including a $1.2 billion expansion of Great Park and defended a controversial $97 million land purchase. His leadership style and significant achievements have set a high bar for his successor in Irvine, while Santa Monica anticipates stability in management as it experiences leadership challenges.
Irvine
Oliver Chi, who has served as the city manager of Irvine since December 2021, has announced his resignation to take the position of city manager in Santa Monica. He will officially begin his new role on July 14, 2024, with an annual salary of $410,604.
During his tenure in Irvine, Chi oversaw significant city developments, including a $1.2 billion expansion of the Great Park neighborhood and the $600 million Gateway Village project. His administration has planned for a permanent amphitheater in the Great Park, which is anticipated to be operational by 2028. Chi also defended a controversial $97 million land purchase at the Irvine Business Complex intended for a public recreation facility. Despite exceeding market value, he argued this purchase was the most cost-effective solution compared to projected expenses of $175 million and lengthy construction timelines for a city park facility.
In addition to these major projects, a badminton-themed gym is currently under construction at 17300 Red Hill Ave. Furthermore, Great Park Live, a temporary concert venue estimated to hold 5,000 attendees, opened in January 2024 and will remain operational until at least 2027.
Chi’s upcoming move to Santa Monica comes at a time when the city has been experiencing instability in its leadership. He will succeed Interim City Manager Elaine Polachek, who stepped into the role after the resignation of former city manager David White in February. Over recent years, Santa Monica has had several interim city managers, raising concerns about consistent governance.
Bringing over two decades of municipal leadership experience to his new role, Chi has previously held positions in other California cities, including Barstow, Huntington Beach, Monrovia, and Rosemead. He holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor’s degree in political science from UCLA.
In his role in Irvine, Chi’s total compensation for 2024 was nearly $530,000, which included pension costs. Following his departure, Irvine’s assistant city manager, Sean Crumby, will serve as the interim city manager. Chi’s leadership style and his accomplishments in Irvine set a high precedent as he transitions to his new role in Santa Monica.
Background Context
Oliver Chi’s resignation and move to Santa Monica represents a significant shift in leadership within two Californian cities. His time in Irvine was marked by ambitious development plans and strategic land acquisitions aimed at enhancing community infrastructure and recreation. The future projects initiated under Chi’s management are expected to leave a lasting impact on the residents of Irvine.
Santa Monica’s recent challenges with city management underscore the importance of stable and experienced leadership. The city has struggled with the retention of city managers in the face of changing administrative priorities and governance challenges. As Chi prepares to take the reins, he brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of accomplishment that may help stabilize and advance city operations.
Overall, Chi’s transition reflects not only personal career advancement but also presents opportunities for both Irvine and Santa Monica to pursue long-term goals in urban development and community engagement.
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Additional Resources
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