The City of La Verne’s search for a permanent city manager and public works director are well underway. Interim City Manager Jesse Duff and Interim Public Works Director Anthony Ciotti are currently filling the positions until permanent replacements are appointed.

“Finding a permanent city manager and public works director remains a top priority for the City, and we are grateful to have strong leadership serving in the interim,” said Mayor Tim Hepburn. “With their extensive regional knowledge and years of local government expertise, I’m confident Jesse and Anthony will ensure daily operations continue to run smoothly as we continue our thorough search to fill the positions.”

Duff began serving as interim city manager in August following former City Manager Bob Russi’s retirement. He has over 40 years of executive local government experience in Southern California, including multiple interim city manager appointments, and previously served as the executive director for Tri-City Mental Health. His contract as interim city manager will end no later than June 30, 2023.

Following the application deadline in September, Council began interviewing qualified applicants for the city manager position. Currently, the process has been narrowed down to a select few candidates, and Council is expected to appoint a permanent city manager before the end of December.

During its regular meeting on September 19, Council approved and appointed Ciotti to serve as interim public works director through June 2023. He served the City for over 13 years, retiring as La Verne’s deputy director of public works in 2021.

“La Verne is searching for a resourceful public works director to direct, manage and supervise all aspects of the Public Works Department,” said Assistant City Manager JR Ranells. “Applications are still being accepted, and qualified candidates who have strong management and problem solving skills are encouraged to apply.”

Applications for the public works director position will be accepted through November 2 at 5 p.m. For more information and to apply for the public works director position, visit the Government Jobs listing.