Manhattan Beach Finance Director Announced Retirement

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — After 35 years of working for the City of Manhattan Beach, Finance Director Steve Charelian announced he would retire.

Charelian was appointed Finance Director in 2018 after working in the department for 11 years prior. Charelian's retirement will be effective July 5 and the search for his replacement will follow, the city said.

“It has been an honor to serve as the Finance Director for the beautiful City of Manhattan Beach,” said Charelian. “The Finance Department has a strong, talented, and dedicated team who provide outstanding customer service. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am confident that the City is well-positioned for continued success built on a solid foundation of prudent financial management.”

During his time as Finance Director, Charelian led the department through the COVID-19 pandemic as well as led efforts to adjust the city's transient occupancy tax. The city said Charelian also implemented a new financial system and helped the city reaffirm its AAA rating.

“Steve’s commitment to excellence and fiscal responsibility has paved the way for our City to achieve important financial goals,” said Mayor Joe Franklin. “On behalf of my City Council colleagues, I would like to sincerely thank Steve for his many years of public service. You helped
keep Manhattan Beach on the right track financially, and for that we are very grateful.”