Interim city manager ready to lead Clayton staff

CLAYTON, CA (May 16, 2024) — At the April 16 meeting, the City Council welcomed interim city manager Adam Politzer to the Clayton community.

Politzer brings a wealth of experience to Clayton with more than 15 years as a city manager. He also possesses a high level of leadership skills that he will bring to his position and to the city staff. The City Council and I look forward to working with Politzer as he offers many talents to complement our community.

The City Council had one action item: Receive and accept the appointment of Frank Gavidia to fill the third seat on the Community Financial Sustainability Committee, as recommended by the city Budget & Audit Committee. Additionally, the Budget & Audit Committee recommended renewing the terms of existing Community Financial Sustainability Committee members Hank Stratford and Howard Kaplan, for terms expiring Dec. 31, 2026.

All three members of the Community Financial Sustainability Committee have extensive and credible financial backgrounds. Stratford, current volunteer city treasurer, former City Council member and mayor, is a Certified Public Account (CPA). Kaplan is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and local business leader. Gavidia is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who leads his own financial investment firm.

This team will review the city’s financial position and provide recommendations on how best to proceed with a sound financial plan that ensures Clayton’s ability to maintain and improve our services.

Community events

Meanwhile, a big thank you to all the community volunteers who participated in our annual Clayton Cleans Up on April 20. A job well done!

The 2024 Clayton Art & Wine Festival, held April 27-28, was another huge success. Once again, Clayton residents demonstrated their creativity and talents, illustrating what a wonderful community we are. Thank you to Art & Wine chair Sandy Johnson and her entire volunteer team.

Finally, as I mentioned in a previous column, the council and I look forward to planning for Clayton’s 60th anniversary of its 1964 inauguration. We encourage everyone to get involved. Please contact City Hall if you would like to volunteer your time or expertise.

Again, as your mayor, I will work hard to maintain Clayton’s small-town charm and character while running an open and transparent local government.

You can reach out to me directly with any questions or concerns at 925-673-7316 or JimD@claytonca.gov. Let’s make 2024 a year to remember in Clayton. Looking forward.