The City of Malibu has announced the unanimous appointment of Ronda Perez as its new City Manager, following approval by the Malibu City Council. Her term will begin on Aug. 25.
According to the City’s press release, Perez brings nearly 20 years of experience in public service, having most recently served as City Manager of Palmdale and previously as Assistant City Manager of Lancaster. She was recognized in both roles for her leadership in securing critical infrastructure funding, expanding community programs, and overseeing major municipal projects, including obtaining local control of a Caltrans-managed stretch of state highway in Palmdale.
“I am honored and excited to join the Malibu team,” said Perez. “Malibu is a unique and extraordinary community, and I look forward to drawing on my experience to support its recovery and guide purposeful, resilient redevelopment, while remaining ever-mindful of the Vision and Mission of Malibu to protect and preserve its fragile nature and rural character. It’s a privilege to be offered the opportunity to lead Malibu’s talented team of city staff, and I am committed to helping Malibu rebuild stronger, safer, and with a clear vision for the future.”
Mayor Marianne Riggins welcomed the appointment, stating, “With Malibu still recovering from the devastating impacts of recent wildfires, consistent and capable leadership is essential. Ronda’s expertise will help accelerate the rebuild process while honoring and preserving the rural character and spirit that make Malibu so special.”
Perez is an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager and holds a master’s degree from California State University, Long Beach. She also completed a leadership certificate through the Harvard Kennedy School’s Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program.
Her employment contract will be formally presented for approval at the next Regular City Council Meeting, scheduled for Monday, Aug. 11, at 5:30 p.m. at Malibu City Hall and remotely via Zoom. Details will be made available at MalibuCity.org/AgendaCenter.
The City also expressed its appreciation to Interim City Manager Candace Bond, who has served since May 13, leading Malibu during a critical time of recovery. Bond’s term will conclude when Perez officially assumes her new role later this month.
Look for the full article in next week edition of The Malibu Times.