SAN CLEMENTE : New Assistant City Manager Post Filled

Paul Gudgeirsson, the former finance director for the city of Redmond, Wash., has been hired for the newly created position of assistant city manager.

The new position was created after a lengthy review of the city’s organizational structure, City Manager Michael W. Parness said.

Gudgeirsson was chosen from among a field of 235 applicants and will be responsible for coordinating support services in the city including finance, personnel and the city clerk’s office.

“I am very pleased with the outcome of the selection process,” Parness said. “After a rigorous review, (Gudgeirsson) was determined to be a premier talent possessing the skills and background that fit precisely with our organizational needs.”

Parness said the new position has been added at no additional cost to taxpayers. Through a reorganization process, the top management position of public services director was eliminated in favor of the assistant city manager position. Gudgeirsson will earn an annual salary of $77,700 in that post.

Parness said the change is designed to increase the city’s financial support capabilities.

“This new position will provide much-needed analytical, administrative and long-range planning support for fiscal management,” Parness said. “This is a crucial role, particularly given the poor condition of our local and state economy.”

Gudgeirsson began his new job on Monday.