Oceanside City Manager Deanna Lorson resigned last Wednesday, following a closed meeting to discuss her performance evaluation. The vote to accept her resignation was 3-1, with Mayor Esther Sanchez dissenting and Councilmember Christopher Rodriguez absent.
Neither the city nor Lorson have given a reason for her departure. The city stated the following in a press release:
“After a 34-year career in public service, including the last several years serving as Oceanside’s City Manager, Deanna Lorson announced her departure. Lorson has guided the City through numerous major initiatives, including the creation of new public facilities, promoting economic revitalization, managing the many challenges posed by the pandemic, and more. Lorson stated her departure ‘leaves Oceanside in good shape and moving forward. It’s been a pleasure to have the opportunity to focus on helping shape the growth and progress of Oceanside for the past six years. I look forward to seeing the City continue to thrive, and am proud of all we’ve accomplished.’”
Mayor Esther Sanchez called Lorson “a strong and effective leader” who helped the city navigate tough challenges, including the pandemic.
Deputy City Manager Jonathan Borrego has been selected as Interim City Manager.