Fullerton City Manager Eric Levitt was appointed City Manager of San Bernardino last week in a 7-1 vote by the City Council. He will take over on August 4, becoming the fifth person to manage the city on a temporary or permanent basis since last year.
Levitt’s appointment followed a difficult search process. The council held two emergency meetings on the matter which did not include Councilmember Treasure Ortiz or Mayor Helen Tran. Ortiz ended up voting against Levitt, citing what she said was a rushed process that lacked transparency.
“Nobody can come into this city and be successful as a city manager with the current political climate because it is happening where you cannot see it. That’s why there’s turnover,” Ortiz said. “Now, we have an opportunity to do something different. To build a foundation and to set goals and objectives. But that’s not gonna happen.”
Levitt remained positive about his ability to lead and bring stability to the city.
“I appreciate very much that I’m going to be a part of your team, and I think it’s important that we come together collaboratively with the community,” said Levitt, as quoted by the San Bernardino Sun. “I think it is important to work with the community and to understand all eight of your values.”
In a statement, Tran praised Levitt’s “proven track record of growth, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.”
Levitt has managed various cities for the past 18 years. He was appointed City Manager of Fullerton in 2021. Previously, he was the top administrator for Alameda; Simi Valley; Janesville, Wisconsin; and Sedona, Arizona. Under his leadership, Simi Valley, Janesville, and Sedona all saw increases in their bond ratings.
Levitt’s contract calls for an annual salary of $333,000 with 3% increases each year. He’ll receive $12,000 in annual deferred compensation, a $6,000 relocation stipend, and a monthly car allowance of $775.
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