City Council honors finance director Kim Baker for outstanding service before her departure

The Riverside City Council meeting on February 3, 2025, highlighted significant community developments and a heartfelt farewell to a key city official. The council expressed gratitude for Kim Baker, the finance director, who announced her departure to pursue a new opportunity in the private sector. Council members praised her contributions over the past 20 months, noting her instrumental role in improving the city’s financial operations and accounting systems. Her efforts not only enhanced efficiency but also saved the city substantial funds, making her departure a notable loss for the organization.

City Manager Josh Brown acknowledged Baker's impact, describing her as a "lighthouse" for the city's culture and operations. Council members echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the challenges of managing a small finance department and the strategic advancements Baker achieved during her tenure. The council is now faced with the task of finding a suitable replacement to fill her "big shoes."

In addition to the farewell, the meeting included discussions about upcoming community events. The council announced a Community School Day scheduled for Saturday, featuring free activities and lunch for families. They also highlighted a successful blood drive and encouraged residents to participate in future drives, reinforcing the community's commitment to supporting local health initiatives.

Looking ahead, the council is preparing for a busy meeting on February 18, which will include several presentations and updates, including a discussion on voluntary gun storage led by Chief Robinson. The meeting concluded with a note of appreciation for ongoing improvements at Aurora Park, led by council member Beth, which have generated excitement among local residents.

As the city navigates these transitions and events, the council remains focused on fostering community engagement and addressing public needs, ensuring that Riverside continues to thrive.