Moreno Valley honors retiring city manager Mike Lee after nearly 10 years of service

Moreno Valley officials presented a proclamation and public remarks on Dec. 17 honoring City Manager Mike Lee, who retires after nearly 10 years with the city, including five years as city manager.

Mayor Cabrera read a proclamation recognizing Lee's leadership and his role in the city's recent economic growth and service programs. "Be it proclaimed by the city of Moreno Valley that we honor and recognize Mike Lee for his exemplary service, outstanding leadership, and significant contributions to the city and its economic development," Mayor Cabrera said while presenting the proclamation.

Speakers at the special presentation credited Lee with helping the city navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, administering ARPA funds and rental-assistance programs, and advancing infrastructure projects including a pavement rehabilitation program and a $6,000,000 parks refurbishment effort. Assistant City Manager Bridal Mohan and multiple council members joined the dais to commend Lee.

Lee, addressing the council and audience, described his public service career as long-standing and collaborative. "It's been a dream career, spanning almost 30 years," Lee said, thanking staff, his family and councilmembers for their support.

Council members and staff said Lee's tenure included efforts to attract businesses, improve financial stability and expand city services, highlighting the creation of Wi-Fi gardens at parks and the city's response programs during the pandemic.

The council presented Lee with the proclamation and invited his wife, Brenda, to join him at the microphone. Lee said he planned to hang the proclamation on his wall and thanked the council and staff for the opportunity to serve.

Councilmembers, staff and residents offered brief public thanks and wished Lee a successful retirement.