SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO : City Official Takes New Job in Ontario

Following the recent termination of City Manager Stephen B. Julian, the city will lose another top official--this time by resignation.

David Bentz, director of administrative services, will leave his position Oct. 14 to take a similar job with the city of Ontario.

“The position offered in Ontario proved to be too great of an opportunity for David to pass up,” said George Scarborough, the city’s interim city manager.

“The size of their department, the salary, benefits and the fact that David will be 15 minutes from home are all advantages that he couldn’t refuse.”

Located in San Bernardino County, Ontario has a population of about 135,000 and is home to Ontario International Airport, used by several major airlines.

Bentz commuted to San Juan Capistrano from Rancho Cucamonga since starting work for the city in March, 1990.

“This decision has been very difficult for me, as I care a great deal for San Juan Capistrano, its employees and my friendships that have developed,” Bentz said. “The four hours’ travel time was a major component of my decision to leave. Now I can use those four hours for quality time with my children.”

Bentz dealt with finance issues for San Juan Capistrano, and city officials said they would miss his expertise.

“He’s not only a highly respected financial adviser, but he is a friend,” said Mayor Gil Jones. “We are sorry to see him go, but the opportunity of serving a city the size of Ontario and being able to spend time with his family are reasons we can understand.”