Cerritos : Former Top Executive to Manage New City of Lake Forest

Gaylord Knapp, the former top executive in Cerritos, has been named the first city manager by the City Council-elect of Lake Forest in southern Orange County.

Knapp managed the city of Cerritos for 18 years until he was fired last March after council members became concerned about his management style.

Cerritos officials confirmed there had been conflicts between the council and Knapp on policy-making issues. But some Cerritos council members said they felt no animosity.

“We certainly wish him well,” Cerritos Councilwoman Ann Joynt said. “He is truly an expert in new city development. He has a lot to give Lake Forest.”

Knapp boosters and detractors alike credit him with transforming Cerritos from a sleepy dairy town to a financially vibrant city with large cash reserves. Knapp used state redevelopment laws to attract businesses to the city.

Lake Forest officials said Knapp easily passed muster with newly elected council members, who were impressed with, among other things, Knapp’s financial expertise.

“We did our checking on what happened there and got very strong, complimentary recommendations on him,” said Dan Miller, Lake Forest’s interim city manager. “I think that after 18 years, (Cerritos) needed a fresh approach” on running the city.

Knapp, who still lives in Cerritos, will take office Jan. 1 in Lake Forest, but is working as a consultant for that city in the interim. He will receive an annual $108,000 salary, a $450 monthly car allowance and 40 days paid vacation.