Laguna Niguel To Appoint New City Manager

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA -- The city of Laguna Niguel is expected to have a new city manager this week. The City Council this week will confirm Kristine Ridge, who is currently the assistant city manager for Anaheim, for the top post in Laguna Niguel.

Ridge, who will replace Rod Foster, who left in July, accepted the job offer after city leaders interviewed several candidates in October, according to a staff report.

Ridge has worked in the public sector for many years, overseeing different departments in the city of Anaheim. She began her career as an auditor, steadily gaining experience with appointments as city auditor, city treasurer, finance director, human resources director and deputy city manager for the city of Anaheim, according to a press release.

“Kristine’s 29-year distinguished public service career, with the last 24 years in multiple high level positions with the city of Anaheim, as well as her talent for creating solutions will make her an outstanding city Manager for Laguna Niguel," said Mayor Fred Minagar in a statement. “We know that Kristine will continue our City’s tradition of high quality service and commitment to conservative financial policies.

Ridge, who is expected to begin the position in January, said she was honored for the opportunity.

“I look forward to working with the Mayor and City Council, City Departments, and the community," Ridge said. "Laguna Niguel is truly a gem offering an exceptional quality of life for its residents and businesses, and I am excited to be a part of securing a bright future for this vibrant and attractive community. ”

Ridge has a bachelor's degree in accounting from Arizona State University and a master's degree in organizational leadership from Chapman University. She has earned a certificate in public accounting, certification as a governmental financial manager, certificate in leadership from University of Chicago, and certificate in public sector human resources.

Ridge will be given a salary of $258,000 annually and a car allowance of $625 monthly. The city city will also contribute $18,000 annually toward deferred compensation. Ridge will also be eligible for performance bonuses.

--Photo via Shutterstock