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Piedmont honors long-serving city attorney Michelle Marchetta Kenyon as Deepa Sharma prepares to take over
Summary
The Piedmont City Council presented a proclamation and tributes to Michelle Marchetta Kenyon for more than 15 years of service and announced that Deepa Sharma will assume the city attorney role; Kenyon thanked the community and said she will remain involved while stepping back from daily duties.
The Piedmont City Council on Jan. 5 presented a formal proclamation honoring Michelle Marchetta Kenyon for more than 15 years of service as the city attorney and invited remarks from former elected officials, staff and residents.
Mayor Betsy Smigel Anderson read a proclamation citing Kenyon’s tenure starting as acting city attorney in 2010, her formal appointment in 2015, and her legal work on projects including the IT strategic plan, the COVID-19 emergency response, the housing element, the 2020 Measure UU pool bond and the 2024 Measure F special tax renewal. Multiple former mayors and staff turned out to offer personal and professional tributes.
John Tullock, a former city clerk, told the council he was “forever grateful” for Kenyon’s care and skill while serving the city. Former mayor Bob McBain called Kenyon a “game changer” whose legal counsel helped the council make difficult decisions. Planning and building director Kevin Jackson credited her for securing strong outcomes in litigation involving telecommunications provider Crown Castle.
Kenyon responded to the recognition with an emotional brief speech, telling the room she cherishes municipal law and this community. “I love what I do. I I love being a city attorney, but I loved being a city attorney for Piedmont,” she said. Kenyon described the moment as "bittersweet," said she mentored Deepa Sharma and expects Sharma will "be amazing," and added she intends to remain connected to Piedmont even after shifting daily responsibilities.
The council presented gifts and took photos with Kenyon and Deepa Sharma. The recognition preceded the formal appointment of Sharma as the city’s new city attorney later in the meeting.
