The East Palo Alto City Council is expected to formally appoint interim city manager Carlos Martinez to the permanent position next month, having just extended a conditional offer of employment to him. Martinez was chosen from more than 30 applicants after an extensive recruitment process. His selection was unanimous, according to the city’s press release.
Between now and the council’s next regular meeting on March 3, a thorough background check will be conducted by the city as it works to negotiate the terms of his contract. A committee composed of Mayor Lisa Gauthier and Vice Mayor Donna Rutherford will represent the council in negotiations.
Martinez has served as interim city manager since October. Since then, he “has demonstrated his passion for the East Palo Alto community," Mayor Gauthier said in a statement.
Over the past 11 years, Martinez has also served in numerous management roles related to redevelopment, economic development and housing in various cities. He holds two Master’s Degrees from the University of California, Berkeley, including one in architecture and another in city planning.
Martinez will be replacing former city manager Magda Gonzalez who departed last year amid some controversy. She is now employed as city manager in Half Moon Bay.
Read more about Carlos Martinez here.