After seven years as City Manager and a total of 28 years working for the City of Monterey, City Manager Hans Uslar today announced his December 2025 retirement. Uslar stated, “I am proud of the progress we have made together. With the support of our City Councils and a highly engaged community, we significantly strengthened Monterey’s financial reserves while maintaining the high level of service our residents expect and deserve.”
Leading the City team through the unprecedented health and fiscal challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic is merely one defining moment of many that underscored Uslar’s exceptional dedication to the Monterey community. During his tenure, Uslar also managed other major initiatives including implementation of the City’s Fiscal Health Response Plan, renewal of the Measure P/S Sales Tax, passage of the Measure G ½-cent sales tax, launch of rental and housing assistance programs, strengthening of Monterey’s fiscal reserves, acquisition of the Old Capitol Site and sustaining the Presidio of Monterey’s base operations contract, known as the Monterey Model, a benchmark for public-public partnerships.
Internally, Uslar has remained committed to building a stronger workplace culture, supporting professional development and working to make staff feel connected and supported. “Our City employees represent the very best of public service. Their dedication, professionalism and reliability – 365 days a year, 24/7– are what truly keeps our city thriving. I have always been deeply honored to work alongside such an exceptional team.”
Uslar’s regional leadership includes serving as a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), and as a Trustee of the Naval Postgraduate School Foundation. He is a founding member of the Monterey Bay Defense Alliance and the California Defense Communities Alliance and is a member of the Association of Defense Communities (ADC).
First joining the City of Monterey in 1997 as a management analyst, Uslar was promoted through the Plans and Public Works Department. He became Assistant Director of Plans and Public Works in 2008, and Deputy City Manager/Plans and Public Works in 2012. He was named Assistant City Manager in 2014 and served as the City’s Interim City Manager. He was appointed to the City Manager role in 2018. Uslar obtained a Master of Science degree in Management from the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS).
Uslar added, “In the months ahead, I remain fully committed to supporting a smooth and effective transition. Monterey is a remarkable place to live and serve, and I look forward to continuing to be part of this special place. Anda.”