In just a few weeks, Watsonville City Manager René Mendez will start his new job as the top administrator for Salinas. In anticipation of Mendez’s move, the Watsonville City Council has appointed Assistant City Manager Tamara Vides as his temporary replacement.
This will be the second time Vides has served as interim city manager. She held the post in 2021 after former City Manager Matt Huffaker left for Santa Cruz. She has been employed by Watsonville for the past 25 years.
Vides is “bringing her extensive experience and long-standing dedication to the City of Watsonville during this transitional period," said Watsonville Mayor Vanessa Quiroz-Carter.
The search for Watsonville’s next permanent administrator is expected to take a few months.
Mendez was one of four finalists for the city manager’s spot in Salinas. His start date is May 28, and he will earn a base salary of $300,000.