News Summary
Santa Monica has appointed Oliver Chi as its new city manager after a nationwide search. Chi, formerly the city manager of Irvine, will start his role on July 14, overseeing a $789.9 million budget and managing over 2,000 employees. His experience includes leading significant projects in Irvine and facing challenges in Urban Management. Mayor Lana Negrete expressed optimism about his vision for the city’s future.
Santa Monica has appointed Oliver Chi as its new city manager following a comprehensive nationwide search. The City Council announced the decision on Friday, marking a crucial step for the city as it aims to build continuity in its leadership.
Chi, who has been serving as the city manager of Irvine since December 2021, will begin his new role in Santa Monica on July 14. His annual salary is set at $410,604. The City Council is expected to formally approve his contract during their upcoming meeting on May 27.
As city manager, Chi will oversee a substantial budget of $789.9 million and will manage a workforce exceeding 2,000 employees. He succeeds Elaine Polachek, who has served as the interim city manager since David White resigned in February. Polachek stepped in after a series of management transitions, including the tenure of interim city manager John Jalili and former city manager Rick Cole, who resigned in March 2020.
Prior Accomplishments
During his time in Irvine, Chi achieved numerous milestones, including leading the ambitious $1.2 billion expansion of the Great Park. Additionally, he spearheaded housing initiatives under the Irvine Cares program and was crucial in establishing a city-led land development process for the $600 million Gateway Village project. His track record in governance and urban planning has garnered him recognition within the community.
Chi’s Background
Before his role in Irvine, Chi held several leadership positions in various cities, including Huntington Beach, Monrovia, Rosemead, and Barstow. His educational background includes a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Southern California and a bachelor’s degree in political science from UCLA. Chi is also a family man, married to Bobbie Jo and is the father of two children, Ian, aged 12, and Avery, aged 8.
Challenges and Expectations
Santa Monica has faced challenges in maintaining consistency in its city management over recent years. The recent changes in leadership highlighted the need for stable direction and strategic development. Mayor Lana Negrete conveyed enthusiasm about Chi’s appointment, emphasizing his talent, skills, and vision for the city’s future. The City Council anticipates that his extensive experience in city management will usher in a new era of effective governance.
With Chi at the helm, Santa Monica is poised for potential change and growth, responding effectively to the needs of its residents while navigating the complexities of urban management. His strategic planning skills might enable the city to tackle ongoing issues and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Newport-Mesa Unified School District to Hold Special Election
Costa Mesa City Manager Terminated Amid Council Divisions
Additional Resources
- Santa Monica Daily Press
- Orange County Register
- Orange County Register
- Los Angeles Times
- PublicCEO
- Wikipedia: City Manager
- Google Search: Santa Monica Oliver Chi
- Google Scholar: Santa Monica City Management
- Encyclopedia Britannica: City Manager
- Google News: Santa Monica City Manager
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
