The Ventura City Council has selected retired City Manager Don Penman to serve on an interim basis as the city manager. Penman retired in 2011 after serving 14 years with the City of Arcadia. Since retirement, Penman has served as interim city manager for Ventura, Calabasas, Azusa, Covina, San Fernando, and Temple City.
“The City Council is confident in Don’s ability to lead the organization during this transitional period as we seek a new City Manager,” shared Mayor Joe Schroeder. “With his extensive experience in local government and prior interim managerial role in 2018 with Ventura, Don is well-suited for the position. He is committed to actively involving the Council, staff, and public in important decision-making processes.”
As Interim City Manager, he will oversee the city’s day-to-day operations and ensure that processes and services run smoothly. He will also work with the City Council to identify and prioritize key initiatives that will benefit the community.
“As I step into this role, my primary focus is facilitating and supporting a smooth transition. It’s inspiring to see the positive progress that has taken place in Ventura since my last involvement in 2018,” shared Don Penman. “I look forward to contributing to the community’s well-being and collaborating closely with the exceptional City Council and staff members. Together, we will work diligently to drive our city forward.”
Penman will work in a limited term appointment while the recruitment process for a permanent city manager is completed. It is estimated that it may take up to three months to complete the recruitment and hiring process for a permanent City Manager, which will include candidate interviews/selection, background investigation, negotiating an agreement with a candidate, and providing the new City Manager with the ability to provide sufficient notice to their current employer.
Assistant City Manager Akbar Alikhan served as interim city manager from February 13 – June 15, 2023, when he resigned to accept a position with the City of Thousand Oaks.
As the Interim City Manager, Penman will receive a salary of $132.50 per hour. There are no benefits for Mr. Penman pursuant to CalPERS requirements.
