Winter 2025

Dear CCMF Members,

As 2025 comes to a close and the pace of winter sets in, CCMF pauses to reflect on a year of meaningful progress. Guided by our mission, CCMF continued to cultivate leadership and professional growth by supporting city managers at every stage of their careers. Through a strong peer network, partnerships and opportunities to connect through programs, events and shared resources, CCMF remained a trusted source of guidance and support. 

One of the year’s most meaningful examples of this commitment was the November New and Future City Managers (NFCM) Seminar, which brought 22 participants together in Pasadena for an engaging, multi-day experience focused on leadership development and professional growth. The seminar provided participants with mentorship from experienced city managers and practical insights to support both current and aspiring leaders. Thank you to the participants who shared their experiences and testimonials. CCMF contributions continue to help shape the future of our profession.

Additionally, CCMF is excited to introduce its first-ever Mid-Career Workshop, a new workshop designed specifically for city managers in the middle stage of their careers. This immersive three-day program will feature candid conversations, guided sessions and meaningful peer networking focused on leadership legacy, career transitions and work-life balance. The Mid-Career Workshop will take place April 22–24, 2026, at The Ranch in Laguna Beach, and promises to be a valuable opportunity for connection and growth. We encourage eligible members to register and be part of this inaugural experience. To learn more, visit the Mid-Career Workshop webpage. 

CCMF is also looking forward to one of our most anticipated gatherings of the year, the Annual Member Appreciation Dinner, held in conjunction with the League of California Cities City Managers Conference. Taking place on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at the Culinary Institute of America at Copia, this special evening offers an opportunity to celebrate the city management profession, recognize our shared accomplishments and enjoy meaningful time with colleagues from across the state. Be sure to register by Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, to secure your spot. We look forward to coming together for a memorable night of camaraderie and community.

At the same conference, CCMF will host three timely panel discussions focused on the evolving demands of city management. “Who Are We? A Profile of the Profession: Insights from the 2025 Survey Update” will highlight key trends and challenges shaping the profession, from the recent 2025 California City Management Survey in partnership with Rose Institute of State & Local Government at Claremont McKenna. “Crisis Communications: Being Prepared When Every Second Counts” will explore proactive strategies for effective messaging and leadership during emergencies. “Approachability as a City Manager: How to Build an Authentic Circle” will examine how leaders can foster trust and meaningful relationships while maintaining professional boundaries. Together, these sessions offer practical insights and thoughtful dialogue for city managers at every stage of their careers.

CCMF is proud to announce that all Executive Education Grants for the 2025–26 program year have been awarded. The grants support participation in premier leadership development programs, including the Stanford Local Governance Summer Institute (LGSI) and the Harvard Leadership Decision Making program. In addition, CCMF Corporate Benefactor Sponsor HdL Companies awarded its $8,000 LGSI scholarship as part of this year’s funding. These awards reflect CCMF’s continued investment in leadership development and the future of the profession.

As a reminder, CCMF offers confidential mental health counseling for members through our partnership with Beverly Foo-Colon, LCSW, a seasoned psychotherapist specializing in mental health and work-life balance. To schedule an appointment, please call (415) 810-6297 or email Beverly_FooColon@comcast.net.

As we look ahead to 2026, we’re excited to reconnect with you at upcoming CCMF events and continue providing resources to support your professional growth. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or CCMF Executive Director Ken Pulskamp with any questions or for guidance. Be sure to follow CCMF on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on news, programs and upcoming events. We look forward to coming together, sharing experiences and strengthening our city management community in the year ahead.

Sincerely,

Ken Striplin
CCMF President

Testimonials

CCMF is a great forum for folks to learn—from those currently in the industry, from those who were in the industry—and to help set up the next generation of city managers.

Aaron Adams, Temecula City Manager & CCMF Board Member

One of the biggest benefits of being a part of CCMF is having that network, not just in our small local areas, but statewide. CCMF offers that to all of us.

Jessica Binnquist, Alhambra City Manager

CCMF provides scholarships for professional development, such as week-long trips to Harvard.

Justin Hess, Burbank City Manager

CCMF provides a concentrated foundation for understanding the potential future of being a City Manager.

Jorge Garcia, City Manager Pismo Beach

What CCMF does to bring people together and provide opportunities to connect, that’s where the magic happens.

Karen Pinkos , El Cerrito City Manager & CCMF Board Member

Resources