George A. Caravalho, Santa Clarita’s first permanent city manager.
On behalf of CCMF, I offer my condolences to the family and friends of George A. Caravalho. George, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 81, was the first permanent city manager in Santa Clarita. As the current city manager, I see the impact of George’s impressive service every day.
Prior to his work in Santa Clarita, George was the Bakersfield city manager and executive director of the redevelopment agency from 1984-88. He served as Santa Clarita’s first permanent city manager from 1988 to 2002 and transitioned to a role as the director of Dana Point Harbor in 2002. Caravalho was highly engaged in his communities, serving on the board of directors for the American Red Cross, the Boys and Girls Club and the League of California Cities. He retired to Santa Cruz in 2008.
George’s contributions to the local government field and commitment to his community received national attention. In 1996, he received the International City/County Management Association’s Mark E. Kean Award for Excellence for outstanding contributions to government. His work garnered more than 40 awards for innovation and excellence over his career.
George helped construct the foundation of the city of Santa Clarita. His mastery of management supported the City Council’s vision of what our city could be and has become — a safe, family-friendly place to live, work and play – with beautiful parks, miles of trails, transportation options, commerce, strong infrastructure and solid financial footing. He paved the way for me as a city manager, and I will always value him as a mentor, colleague and friend.
CCMF sends our condolences to George’s wife, children, and countless other lives he touched. He will be deeply missed in the city management community.