Pasadena's City Manager Search Will Be An 'Inclusive Process'

PASADENA, CA — When Pasadena begins its search to replace City Manager Steve Mermell when he retires in December, it will be an “inclusive process,” Mayor Victor Gordo announced Friday.

The City Council on Monday will discuss how it will conduct a “national search for a new city manager and to ensure a seamless transition,” according to Gordo. He did not specify in his announcement what the inclusive process would entail.

“In the meantime, Steve will continue in his role until his retirement date of Dec. 2 and the council and I am confident that he … will continue to serve the city with distinction,” Gordo said.

The Pasadena City Council will Monday at 4:30 p.m. The meeting will be streamed on the city's website, and community members can submit comments online.

Gordo lauded Mermell’s 30 years of public service and called him an invaluable part of Pasadena, having spearheaded the city’s response to the pandemic.

“Steve’s distinguished service and commitment to our city’s employees and residents will not soon be forgotten,” he said.

Mermell announced his retirement Monday night in an email to city workers. He declined to say why he was retiring.

"Over the years, I have had the pleasure of getting to know a lot of city employees, and I count many of you as friends and all of you as colleagues," he said. "Day in and day out, you provide exceptional service to our community, and it shows. It will always be a great source of pride for me to have served as your city manager."