Looking Back: A city manager discusses his triumphs, challenges and final days

On Sept. 24, Mark Weiss will step down as San Carlos city manager, a position he has held for the past five years. During his tenure, Weiss has seen the city endure what he called, "a difficult time from a financial standpoint."

"It's been a budget deficit annually for the last decade," he said in his office on the second-floor of City Hall. "When I first got here, I noted that challenge. "

Weiss's time spent in San Carlos was defined by a financial deficit he inherited, and one that still exists as he retires. But he believes the part he played in its eventual restructuring will be his greatest achievement as city manager.

"It's been a trying time, but it's been managed well" he said. "I think the community will benefit."

Wiess' career in municipal government has spanned more than 30 years and included stints as city manager in Half moon Bay and and assistant city manager in the Riverside County community of La Quinta. Weiss also held positions in Oklahoma City but his familiarity with the Bay Area, he said, was a determining factor in his accepting the San Carlos position. 

"I've always loved the Bay Area and San Carlos is very attractive in quality of life," he said. "I also knew some of the personnel here. I had previously worked with the city attorney, so I knew it was an opportunity."

Weiss graduated from the University of South Dakota in 1978 with a degree in political science. His participation in the university senate provided a glimpse into what his future would hold as a government official.

Two years later he earned his MPA degree from the University of Oklahoma City, which led to his first job in the city's government administration offices as the assistant to the director.

"I can't believe we're old enough to retire," said Cathy O'Connor, Oklahoma City's assistant city manager and long-time friend of Weiss.

O'Connor was still in college when she first met Weiss nearly three decades ago. "It was just refreshing to work with someone as bright and enthusiastic as Mark and he really continued that dedication to public service his whole career."

O'Connor reminisced about going to happy hours with Weiss and friends after work at local bars bars such as Triples and Pinstripes. 

A more recent colleague, assistant city manager Brian Moura, also shared his thoughts about Weiss.

"Two things that stood out with Mark was his experience in economic development and his experience in budget," said Moura. "If you look back at his tenure, he faced a couple of challenges. He's had some series of challenges but he's certainly made major progress."

"It's been an interesting tenure for him." added Moura. "He joined San Carlos  in a really tough time. He moved the city forward. Over the last several years, he's obviously have had a difficult time, but he's been able to guide us through a really difficult patch"

Mayor Randy Royce echoed the sentiment. "I really like Mark, I love working with him, and he will be missed."

While an executive search firm looks for Weiss' replacement, Jeff Maltbie, the city's administrative services director will serve as interim city manager.

"It's been a good [city] council," said Weiss. "Whomever assumes this position can learn a lot from the people who are here. They should listen and become familiar with them. They will learn a lot."