February 12, 2021 – Nevada City Council announced, following a Friday special city council meeting, the approval of a contract with Joan Phillipe to serve as interim city manager effective Monday February 15, 2021.
Phillipe comes to Nevada City as a retired city manager with over 35 years’ experience in local government including as city manager in Loomis, Colusa, Colfax and Clearlake as well as executive director of the California State Sheriffs’ Association and assistant city manager in South Lake Tahoe. Since retirement she has provided interim management and consulting services.
Phillipe’s experience in small communities faced with economic and fiscal challenges drew the council to her. Her experience with water and wastewater issues was also a benefit. She has substantial planning experience having worked on updating General Plans, zoning ordinances and other planning documents including economic development plans.
In addition, her experience in working with other jurisdictions as well as state and federal government officials was seen as an asset for the city. Phillipe has assisted several cities in the recruitment and transition of city managers by helping to identify the qualities and assets needed in a candidate to be a good fit for an organization, its staff, and its community.
Phillipe is familiar with Nevada City having had family living in the area for many years. She and her husband, Brian, were also married in the city and visit it regularly. Phillipe’s contract with the city will run until the council fills the position with a permanent manager. It is anticipated filling the position will take approximately six months.