Debbie Elam introduces herself as Livermore’s new city clerk

Debbie Elam, who said she has worked for the City of Livermore for 22 years, introduced herself and outlined her path to the clerk’s office, saying, “As of September 2024, I became your city clerk.”

Elam told listeners she began her municipal career as a permit technician in the Community Development Department, where she processed building, planning and engineering permits. She said she later served as administrative assistant to the community development director, became deputy city clerk, then assistant city clerk before her most recent appointment.

Elam said the city’s organizational culture has shifted over her tenure and that “most recently, it's a culture of innovation,” a change she described as “wonderful.” She noted a large number of new staff have joined the city and praised how they are acclimating and contributing to city initiatives.

She emphasized customer service as a personal touchstone, saying, “The part of the city mission I identify most with is providing high quality customer service in a courteous and timely manner.” Elam described long experience in customer service, dating back to childhood, and said city management prioritizes hiring staff who fit the organization culturally while training technical skills.

Elam also offered brief personal observations about Livermore, praising the city’s libraries and noting she works two doors down from the Civic Center library. She said she appreciates living in the Livermore valley and singled out the city’s use of conservation easements to maintain open-space buffers.

Elam did not announce specific policy initiatives or actions during these remarks. Her comments served as an introductory statement about background, priorities and appreciation for city staff and community.