City of Salinas appoints Rene Mendez as City Manager
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- UPDATE ON MARCH 19, 2024 AT 5:35 PM- The City of Salinas officially will have a permanent city manager.
City Council unanimously appointed Rene Mendez to become the city manager for Salinas during Tuesday night's Council meeting.
Mendez is currently the city manager for Watsonville and will start his new position in the Salad Bowl Capital of the World in May 2024.
Mendez has over thirty years of government experience.
He will be taking over for interim city manager Jim Pia who has been serving in the role since Oct. 2023 when former city manager Steve Carrigan was removed from his position in October.
Original Story
The City of Salinas confirms to KION that Rene Mendez will be appointed to the role of City Manager for the city.
This is pending a vote by council members during a meeting Tuesday.
A report from the city indicates that the new city manager will not join the city until the end of May 2024.
Mendez brings thirty years of experience in state, county and local government.
He's currently the city manager for Watsonville, but previously served a similar role in Gonzales from 2005 to 2022.
"Serving this organization and its residents has been a true honor,” said Méndez. "As I set out to begin this new chapter, I take with me the lessons learned and the memories shared. I’m confident this community will continue to thrive long after my departure."
An advanced copy of the city's agenda report shows if the employment agreement is approved as it stands, Mendez will start on May 28, 2024 with an annual base salary of $300,000.
Watsonville City Staff issued a statement, saying the city is immensely grateful for René’s dedication and commitment to our City."
