La Cañada staffers bid Chun farewell

On Tuesday, La Cañada staffers and city council members recognized the contributions of Kevin Chun who, after serving for eight years as director of administrative services, leaves this week to take a position as assistant city manager in Paramount.

“When I heard that you were leaving for a potential opportunity I said, ‘No, you can’t do that,’ because you really do bring a lot to this community,” Mayor Pro Tem Jon Curtis during a special presentation. “We very much thank you for everything you’ve done.”

Chun came to La Cañada in April 2007 from the city of Bellflower, where he served as deputy city manager for nearly seven years. Before that, he worked for the cities of Irvine and Culver City and, in 1995, served as a White House intern under then-President Bill Clinton.

Two years into his position at La Cañada Flintridge City Hall, Chun experienced what Mayor Dave Spence called Tuesday a “baptism by fire and rain and mud,” helping see residents through the aftermath of an April 2009 big-rig accident that claimed the lives of a father and daughter and aiding in the organization of the city’s emergency response months later during the Station fire and 2010 mud slides.

“He’s done such a great job here, and his reputation goes far and wide,” Spence said during Tuesday’s presentation. “We will miss you, buddy.”

At the end of the meeting, in his city manager remarks, Mark Alexander bid Chun a fond farewell.

“I really appreciate working with Kevin. Even though we’re losing him, we’re very proud of what he’s accomplished and wish him well in his new assignment,” Alexander said.

Chun currently resides in La Cañada with wife Lucile, daughter Madeline, 13, and 8-year-old son Ryan. In Tuesday’s presentation, he thanked his colleagues for their hard work and commitment.

“It’s been my distinct honor and privilege to be part of Team La Cañada Flintridge and to help serve this community,” he said. “You guys are very, very dedicated public servants. A lot of our blood, sweat and tears, I believe, have made this community better.”

Chun’s official last day with the city is Friday. He takes up his new post in Paramount on Monday.