Santa Cruz’s new assistant city manager is a city native who comes to the job with experience in implementing numerous climate action and environmental initiatives.
Michelle Templeton was previously assistant city manager in Santa Clara, holds a degree in environmental studies, and “has managed collaboration across all city departments to achieve sustainability and climate action targets.” According to a release from Santa Cruz City Manager Matt Huffaker, she has led projects in urban forestry, decarbonization, compliance with environmental mandates and waste reduction.
“As a native of Santa Cruz, her extensive and diverse experience in the public sector and commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and social justice make her an invaluable addition to our leadership team. We are excited to have her serve her hometown with such dedication and passion,” Huffaker said of Templeton.
Templeton is a native Spanish speaker and served as sustainability manager and communications director in Santa Clara prior to her assistant city manager role. She was previously assistant director of public works for the City of Watsonville, and worked in various leadership roles at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Her starting salary with the city will be $249,444.
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