C.M. recreation manager takes Irvine job

Costa Mesa’s recreation manager, Travis Karlen, is leaving City Hall for a new position in Irvine.

Karlen will serve as community services superintendent for the city of Irvine.

His last day in Costa Mesa is March 17.

“We are very sad to see Travis leave us,” assistant city CEO Tammy Letourneau said in a statement. “He has done a tremendous job reorganizing the parks and community services department and developing wonderful programs for the community. Since he has been with the city, the parks and recreation programming has grown tremendously.”

Replacing Karlen on an acting basis is Recreation Supervisor Justin Martin.

Karlen came to Costa Mesa in July 2014 after serving as recreation manager in Maricopa, Ariz.