Santa Monica Deputy City Manager Christopher J. Smith is leaving behind a city grappling with financial, operational, and personnel challenges and stepping into another jurisdiction with its own wave of leadership turmoil. On November 18, Smith will assume the role of interim assistant city manager for the City of Malibu.
Smith brings 14 years of coastal city management experience to the table. He was appointed as Santa Monica’s Deputy City Manager in December 2023. Previously, he served as chief of staff, acting chief information officer, and LGBTQ+ liaison. Smith earned his master's degree in public administration from California State University, Long Beach.
Malibu has experienced a leadership churn since 2020 — but particularly in recent months. In May 2021, former City Manager Reva Feldman resigned. Steve McClary assumed the position the following year, then took an extended leave in 2024. Assistant City Manager Joseph Toney carried out acting city manager duties until 2025 when McClary formally left the city. Malibu appointed Candace Bond as interim city manager instead of Toney, which prompted Toney to resign from his deputy/assistant city manager position. Ronda Perez was named Malibu's next permanent city manager in August 2025, but she ended up withdrawing her name from consideration. The city is still looking for a permanent chief executive.
The frequent turnover has complicated an already sluggish rebuilding process following the January wildfires. Abe Roy, a volunteer rebuilding ambassador for the city, recently quit over frustration with the lack of issued permits. Malibu is desperately hoping to restore some stability.
Santa Monica, too, is beset by serious fiscal and operational pressures. The city is facing a projected operational deficit that will require the use of approximately $60.5 million in reserves over the coming years. Large one-time liabilities, including more than $229 million in sexual abuse payouts, have weakened its financial position. Meanwhile, the city’s credit rating outlook has been revised to negative. At the same time, a decline in tourism and downtown foot traffic has contributed to higher retail vacancies on the Third Street Promenade and in the downtown area. Homelessness is an ongoing crisis, and the city is adjusting operations and staffing in response.
Smith’s move underscores the interconnected challenges confronting Southern California’s coastal cities, from rising housing costs and homelessness to regulatory burdens and declining tourism. But his transition could signal an opportunity for leadership renewal.
“His proven track record in effective city management and innovation will be a tremendous asset as Malibu continues the fire rebuild and recovery effort and strengthens its operations and deliver exceptional services to our community,” said Malibu Mayor Marianne Riggins.
Read more at the Santa Monica Daily Press.