The City of Murrieta is proud to announce that City Manager Justin Clifton has been named the 2026 City Manager of the Year by Government Business Review Magazine, recognizing his leadership and commitment to public service.
Since joining the City of Murrieta as City Manager in January 2025, Clifton has helped advance key priorities including economic development, infrastructure development, public safety, homelessness services, and organizational excellence.
“This recognition is an incredible honor, but it is truly a reflection of the entire City of Murrieta team,” said Clifton. “Our employees are committed to finding innovative solutions and making a meaningful difference in the community every day. I’m proud to be part of this team and grateful for the opportunity to serve Murrieta.”
Under Clifton’s leadership, the City has continued to focus on strategic planning and prioritization, fiscal responsibility, collaboration, and delivering results for residents.
“Justin’s experience and leadership continues to bring tremendous value to the City of Murrieta,” said Mayor Jon Levell. “As an ‘out-of-the-box’thinker, he’s creative and intuitive where it counts. I feel privileged to work with someone who brings value to each conversation because of their experience. Justin is truly an outlier in the realm of City Managers. I look forward to our continued collaboration in the coming years.”
The City congratulates Justin Clifton on this distinguished recognition and thanks him for his continued leadership and service to the Murrieta community.
About the City of Murrieta
The City of Murrieta is a vibrant community of over 121,000 people in Southwest Riverside County. With a young, family-centered population, the City’s focus on delivering excellent public safety and an unmatched quality of life for residents has been widely recognized. Murrieta’s residents enjoy the 53 local parks and miles of trails, City-run police and fire departments, and an ever-expanding variety of dining and shopping opportunities. Murrieta is Connected by Community. Learn more at MurrietaCA.gov