August 22, 2025

Arlene Schafer Retires After Decades of Service in Costa Mesa

News Summary

Arlene Schafer has officially retired from her role as director of the Costa Mesa Sanitary District after 28 years of dedicated service. Her decision comes as she wishes to spend more time with family. Throughout her career, she served in various capacities including as a city council member and the second female mayor of Costa Mesa. A retirement tribute honored her impact on the community that included significant improvements in waste management. She leaves behind a strong legacy of public service and community engagement.

Costa Mesa

Arlene Schafer, a prominent civic leader and director of the Costa Mesa Sanitary District (CMSD), has officially retired after 28 years of dedicated service on the board. Her decision to retire, announced prior to the end of her term in 2026, comes as she seeks to devote more time to her family. July 31 marked her final day with the district.

Schafer’s career spans nearly five decades of community service in Costa Mesa, where she has held various positions including roles on the Costa Mesa Planning Commission and as a member of the City Council. Notably, she was also the second female mayor of Costa Mesa, serving from 1980 to 1982. Despite her retirement from the CMSD, she continues to be involved in community service through her volunteer work with the Harbor Mesa Lions Club.

In a recent interview, Schafer revealed that stepping down was a challenging decision due to her strong commitment to the community. However, her daughter, Jamie Kennedy, who recently retired from her teaching position, encouraged Schafer to embrace this new chapter in her life as the family prepares to welcome new grandchildren.

Retirement Tribute and Community Impact

A retirement ceremony held on Tuesday was attended by CMSD officials and local city leaders who gathered to celebrate Schafer’s contributions to the community. CMSD General Manager Scott Carroll played a key role in organizing the tribute, highlighting her lifetime dedication to public service. During the ceremony, Schafer was presented with a key to the city by Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens, recognizing her significant impact over the years.

A Legacy of Service

Schafer’s public service journey began with her involvement in the College Park Elementary School PTA. She was first elected to the Sanitary District Board in 1994 and served for 16 years until 2010, before returning in 2013 to fill a board vacancy, successfully competing against 19 candidates for the sought-after position. Over the years, she has been re-elected to the CMSD board three additional times, demonstrating her popularity and leadership within the community.

Throughout her tenure, Schafer led various significant initiatives within the CMSD, such as the implementation of automated curbside pickup, launching an organic waste recycling program, and initiating a districtwide door-to-door hazardous waste collection service. She also facilitated the acquisition and construction of CMSD’s Robin Hamers Yard and managed the renovation of the district headquarters, leaving a lasting legacy in infrastructure and community services.

Recognition by Peers

CMSD Board President Mike Scheafer commended her enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to the Costa Mesa community. Additionally, Neil McCormick from the California Special Districts Association paid tribute to Schafer for her efforts in amplifying the voice of special districts in Sacramento, further highlighting her influence beyond the local level.

As she enters this new phase of her life, Schafer leaves behind a solid foundation of community engagement and infrastructure improvements that will benefit Costa Mesa residents for years to come. Her commitment to public service has not only shaped the CMSD but has also inspired many to follow in her footsteps.