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Council appoints Kara Redding as Lodi city manager; salary disclosed at $285,000
Summary
The Lodi City Council unanimously appointed Kara Redding as city manager on May 6, 2026, approving an employment agreement that includes a $285,000 annual salary, a $300 monthly auto allowance and executive leave banks. The appointment follows a public introduction and brief council remarks welcoming Redding.
The Lodi City Council voted unanimously on May 6 to appoint Kara Redding as the city’s next city manager, approving an employment agreement that spells out compensation and leave benefits.
Interim city attorney provided the statutorily required disclosure before the vote, stating the contract calls for “a salary of $285,000, a $300 monthly auto allowance and banks of leave time” and benefits consistent with other executive staff. Council members offered welcoming remarks, citing Redding’s experience and a planned start date referenced by council as June 22.
JP Doucette of the Lodi Chamber of Commerce spoke in favor of the appointment, saying the chamber’s board and membership had conducted their own due diligence and offered support. After a brief public comment period with no opposing speakers, Councilmember Craig Hensley moved to appoint Redding and Councilmember Nakanishi seconded; roll-call votes were recorded as unanimous yes.
Redding spoke briefly after the vote, thanking the mayor, the council and staff and saying she looked forward to collaborating with the community, council and executive team.
The council followed Government Code disclosure requirements before taking final action. The city will return to finalize any onboarding logistics and a start date; Redding’s compensation details are part of the executed agreement approved tonight.
