Winter 2023

Dear CCMF Members, 

As we wrap up 2023, CCMF is pleased to reflect on another rewarding year. We enjoyed collaborating with our members and sponsors to facilitate conference panels, networking opportunities, educational awards, and host flagship events such as the 2023 New and Future City Managers Seminar (NFCM). We remain dedicated to our mission of supporting excellence in city management. 

In November, we held the NFCM Seminar in Pasadena, drawing 19 attendees. NFCM is geared towards fostering the next generation of city managers. This multi-day workshop provides current and aspiring city managers with valuable mentorship from seasoned professionals. Special thanks to all participants, and to the four members from this year’s cohort who shared their key takeaways.

The Institute for Local Government (ILG) conducted a webinar titled “Results & Lessons from the 2023 California City Manager Survey,” featuring insights from CCMF President Ken Striplin and Executive Director Ken Pulskamp. The collaborative effort with the Rose Institute of State and Local Government resulted in the creation of the “2023 California City Manager Survey: A Profile of the Profession” report, offering a comprehensive overview of the city management profession in California.

In the new year, we look forward to CCMF’s Annual Member Appreciation Dinner, coinciding with the League of California Cities City Managers Conference. Scheduled for Thursday, February 8, at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, this event provides an excellent opportunity to reconnect with old friends and create new connections within our ever-expanding city management community. Given its popularity, ensure you register by Friday, January 26, to secure your seat. We look forward to an evening of camaraderie, friendship and awards with you!

Furthermore, we are organizing two panel discussions at the League of California Cities Managers Conference titled “Protecting the Profession” and “Who are we? A Profile of the Profession.” The “Protecting the Profession” panel will allow attendees to gain insights into proactive measures to prevent personal and professional attacks on city managers, along with various strategies to address such challenges. Fran Robustelli, City Manager of San Leandro, will moderate the panel, featuring guest speakers Ken Domer, City Manager of LaVerne, John Donlevy, Retired City Manager of Auburn and Christa Johnson, Town Manager of Ross. The second panel, “Who are we? A Profile of the Profession,” is the closing session of the Conference. It will present the results of the “2023 California City Manager Survey: A Profile of the Profession” report.  Ken Striplin, CCMF President and City Manager of Santa Clarita, will moderate the session, featuring guest speakers Karen Pinkos, CCMF Board Member and City Manager of El Cerrito and Bipasa Nadon, Assistant Director for Research and Publications with the Rose Institute of State and Local Government at Claremont McKenna College. 

As we embark on the new year, we look forward to reconnecting with you at upcoming events and continuing to equip you with helpful tools and resources. Remember, our member-only materials are always available for your reference on the CCMF website.

Feel free to contact me or the CCMF Executive Director, Ken Pulskamp, should you require any assistance from CCMF. We look forward to connecting with you in the new year! 

Sincerely,

Ken Striplin
President