Murrieta City Manager Kim Summers Announces Retirement

MURRIETA, CA—After seven years as Murrieta city manager, Kim Summers announced Monday that she will retire at the end of the year.

Summers came to the city in 2014 as assistant city manager after serving a five-year stint in various roles with the city of Hesperia. She was appointed by Murrieta City Council to city manager in 2017.

"Being a City Manager is a challenging but rewarding vocation, and I have been blessed to serve in two great cities, working with amazing people, but all things must end," Summers said in a released statement. "It has been a great honor to lead this organization, assemble the finest executive team anywhere, and strive to improve the work lives of almost 500 employees, all while keeping the community safe, beautiful, and thriving. Now it’s time for me to give the next generation of public servants a chance to lead this amazing place."

On Summers' watch, Murrieta has witnessed voters pass Measure T (one-cent sales tax), the Triangle project's promise, the development and opening of the rebooted Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, and many retail openings like Costco, Trader Joe's and car dealerships. Housing projects have also boomed in the city and Summers navigated the Covid-19 closure.

Summers has largely avoided public criticism and is often praised by officials. She is expected to assist City Council in selecting her replacement and subsequently help with the transition. Her last City Council meeting will be Nov. 19, according to the city.

In October, the International City/County Manager Association will recognize her for 25 years of service in local government.

"Murrieta, thank you for allowing me to serve as your City Manager; it has been the adventure of a
lifetime," Summers said.

Summers' official end date with the city is Jan. 10. She said she plans to spend more time with her husband and family, travel, and work in her garden.