City of Riverside Statement Re City Manager Al Zelinka

Published: 04/27/2022

 

The City of Huntington Beach has announced its intention to hire Al Zelinka as its next City Manager during its May 3 City Council meeting.

The City of Riverside thanks Al Zelinka for his years of service, including the last four years as Riverside City Manager, and wishes him the best in his next endeavor in Huntington Beach. His last day in Riverside is expected to be June 3.

“Al Zelinka has been a steady hand during the past four years, including two years working with our elected officials to get our city and our workforce through the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson said. “We are grateful for his commitment to Riverside.”

Zelinka has worked for the City of Riverside for about 10 years, first as Community and Economic Development Director, then as an Assistant City Manager, and since May 2018, as City Manager.

Zelinka developed opportunities for revenue generation and cost savings during his tenure as City Manager. He implemented innovative public safety partnership programs that improved homeless outreach and park safety. He helmed an effort that has turned a structural deficit into a surplus and is credited with bringing significant new investment to downtown Riverside.

Zelinka will remain as City Manager in Riverside through June 3. Between now and then, the Mayor and City Council will work  together to develop a plan for filling the City’s top administrative position.

“Al Zelinka has brought integrity, energy and foresight to the City Manager’s Office,” Mayor Pro Tem Chuck Conder said. “Residents, students and business owners alike have benefitted from his willingness to work with stakeholders across the city to chart a path forward for our city.”