Councilmembers praised incoming City Manager Mike Futrell as the man for the moment when contacted by Pasadena Now on Wednesday.
In a statement, the City announced that Futrell will start on May 13. He replaces Miguel Márquez, who announced his retirement in November.
“I want to thank Miguel Márquez for his dedicated service to our community and the many qualified candidates who applied and interviewed,” said Councilmember Justin Jones. “As we welcome Mike Futrell to Pasadena, he brings the kind of experience and leadership we need at a pivotal time for our city. We have major priorities ahead, and I’m ready to work together to make sure we continue delivering real results for our residents.”
The decision to hire Futrell is one of the most important decisions this City Council will make.
Locally, the City Council is responsible for hiring just three positions: the City Manager, the City Attorney, and the City Clerk.
Under Pasadena’s council-manager form of government, the city manager functions as the chief administrator responsible for implementing policies set by the mayor and City Council.
Futrell will also oversee a billion-dollar-plus budget and attend weekly City Council meetings, and is responsible for 14 City departments.
“I’m excited to welcome Mike Futrell to Pasadena,” said Councilmember Jason Lyon. “He has the right mix of experience, financial savvy, and empathy that we need in a city manager at this moment in our history. I think Mike will be a tremendous asset as we weather the financial challenges of the current economy and look to repatriate a vital part of Pasadena in the 710 stub.”
Futrell will also face financial challenges, as the City navigates a budget deficit, the threat of losing federal dollars at the hands of the current presidential administration, and the lawsuit between the City and UCLA.
Councilmember Tyron Hampton said he believes Futrell is ready for the job.
“Mike is going to bring new energy to the City of Pasadena with his engagement and experience,” said Tyron Hampton. “He’s been battle-tested. In the times we find ourselves in, with a lack of federal, state, and county dollars, it’s important that we bring in a city leader who is ready to hit the ground running and prepare Pasadena for its next chapter.”
“As we get closer to developing the 55 acres that was once a freeway, it’s crucial that we have someone who understands financing and is able to manage the steps to build out this new seamless addition to our city,” Hampton continued.
I’ve spoken to so many residents who wanted a City Manager that would be engaged in their neighborhoods and the community. Mike will bring a level of energy only rivaled by the ‘Energizer Bunny.’ I look forward to this next chapter in building a better future for all in Pasadena.”
Futrell served separate three-year stints as city manager in South San Francisco and Riverside before taking the job in Pasadena.
The City Council conducted a nationwide search before deciding on Futrell.
“Based on a long and distinguished track record, I believe Mike Futtrel will drive results and collaborate with the staff, Council and community to successfully lead on an ambitious set of priorities and projects,” said Councilmember Rick Cole. “The Council was looking for a leader with the character, temperament and skills to put Pasadena at the forefront of effective and progressive public service outcomes.”
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