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Costa Mesa hires Cecilia Gallardo Daley as city manager under a three‑year contract
Summary
The council approved a three‑year employment agreement for City Manager Cecilia Gallardo Daley with a $320,000 base salary, $50,000 deferred comp, executive leave and one year’s severance for termination without cause; the contract requires the manager and council to set annual performance goals.
The Costa Mesa City Council unanimously approved Dec. 2 an employment agreement with City Manager Cecilia Gallardo Daley outlining a three‑year term and compensation package.
Key terms: The contract sets a $320,000 annual base salary and $50,000 in deferred compensation annually; the manager will receive executive leave (40 hours) and use of a city vehicle consistent with other executive packages. The agreement is terminable at will, but if the city terminates the manager without cause there is a severance payment equal to one year’s base salary; termination for cause carries no severance.
Performance and oversight: The agreement requires development of performance goals and an evaluation process. Council amended draft language so that the manager and the full city council will jointly develop annual performance goals and an ad‑hoc committee will assist in the initial goal setting.
Vote and context: The motion to approve the agreement (including the revision on goal‑setting) passed unanimously (6–0). Councilmembers praised Gallardo Daley’s leadership during recent transitions and encouraged regular performance feedback.
Implementation: The personnel and compensation elements will be administered by the city’s human resources team; any future changes to compensation or substantive contract terms will require council action.
