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Monterey honors City Manager Hans Usler as he retires after 28 years
Summary
Council and community leaders honored City Manager Hans Usler on Dec. 2 for 28 years of service, citing his leadership through the pandemic, fiscal planning and intergovernmental partnerships. Usler thanked staff and residents and said Monterey is his home.
Monterey’s City Council on Dec. 2 held an extended ceremony recognizing City Manager Hans Usler, who retires at the end of December after 28 years with the city.
Council members, departmental leaders, representatives from the U.S. Navy and state offices, and longtime residents praised Usler’s leadership through crises and complex projects. Mayor Williamson lauded Usler’s humor and “three‑legged stool” approach to the COVID response, a strategy Usler used to balance business support, rental assistance and fiscal stabilization. Aaron Davidson read floor remarks from Rep. Jimmy Petta honoring Usler’s public service in the U.S. House record.
Department heads described Usler’s hands‑on management and mentorship. Police Chief David Hovery said Usler “put people first” while leading municipal responses to pandemic and fiscal challenges. Naval and Army representatives presented military commendations, noting sustained collaboration with the Presidio and Naval Support Activity Monterey.
Usler, speaking briefly, said, “The city is my home now. There is no place like Monterey,” and thanked his family, council and staff. He reflected on his time in the Navy and the relationships that shaped his career.
Public commenters and more than a dozen residents in the chamber offered tributes during a dedicated public‑comment period. Several speakers credited Usler with steady management during the pandemic and for building partnerships with local institutions, including the Naval Postgraduate School and community nonprofits.
The council presented Usler with gifts and ceremonial recognitions; officials said the city will continue transitions through the end of his tenure and into the new administration in January.
