City Manager Stephanie Dietz announced the appointment of Maria Mendoza as Manager of Economic Development. Mendoza began her duties Monday, March 21, 2022.
“Maria has been a cornerstone of our economic development efforts over the past 12 years,” stated Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero. “Her demonstrated ability to forge relationships within the development industry made her the ideal choice to lead our economic development team,” Quintero said.
In her position, Ms. Mendoza is responsible for managing and coordinating the planning and implementation of the City’s economic development programs, including business attraction, retention, and expansion, management of various City properties and real estate transactions, marketing, and related functions. Additionally, Ms. Mendoza will represent the City and the Department with citizens, community organizations, and other government agencies.
“Ms. Mendoza brings more than 15 years of experience to this position,” said City Manager Stephanie Dietz. Maria’s understanding of the City, both in commercial and industrial development, has been key to our growing successes in these areas. We are confident of her ability to manage the economic development of our City,” concluded Dietz.
For Mendoza, being able to play a vital role in the continued growth of Merced is what interests her most. “Understanding the opportunities here in Merced is key,” said Mendoza. “Part of what makes our community special are the business owners who choose to stake their livelihoods here.
“As we appreciate continued interest from prospective developers and businesses, I look forward to facilitating interactions and generating interest to further the City’s economic development goals,” she said.
Mendoza has risen through the City’s ranks over the last 15 years. Initially hired in the City’s Insurance Department in 2007, she was promoted to Redevelopment Technician in 2008 and stepped into the Development Associate role in 2011. Maria will report to Deputy City Manager Frank Quintero.
Maria serves on the Board of Directors of Team California, is active with Innovating Commerce Serving Communities (ICSC), the Site Selectors Guild and the Society of industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR). When not serving the City, Maria enjoys time with her family.