India Post News Service
FREMONT, CALIF.: Fremont City Council selects Assistant City Manager Karena Shackelford as Fremont’s ninth City Manager.
On Tuesday, October 11, 2021, the Fremont City Council in a special closed session meeting, voted unanimously to appoint Assistant City Manager Karena Shackelford to serve as Fremont’s next City Manager.
“It’s an honor and privilege to announce the selection of Karena Shackelford as Fremont’s next city manager,” said Mayor Lily Mei. “Karena is a dynamic leader in our City organization with a proven track record of leading complex projects, effectively implementing the Council’s policy direction, and building positive relationships throughout the organization and community. When we began discussions to select Fremont’s next leader, the Council was decisive and unanimous in recommending Karena and we all believe she is the right choice at the right time.”
Karena has over 20 years of experience in local government, beginning with the City of San Jose and extending through a tenure at the City of Fremont that began in 2006. For the last three years Karena has served as Assistant City Manager, helping to manage day-to-day operations, and specifically overseeing Public Works, Community Services, and Information Technology Services. Prior to her current role, Karena had been promoted into an executive position by retired City Manager Fred Diaz. As Deputy City Manager Karena had oversight of the City Clerk’s Office, Legislative Affairs, Communications, organizational development, and City Council relations. In addition to her work in the City Manager’s Office, Karena has served as Interim Chief Technology Services Director, Interim Public Works Director, Deputy Public Works Director, Deputy Director of Maintenance and Business Manager.
Karena grew up in the City of Fremont and has fond memories of spending time at Fremont’s parks and utilizing the vast array of recreation services during her childhood. Karena holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from San Jose State University, a Master of Business Administration from Saint Mary’s College, and is a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA).
“I am so proud and honored to assume this important responsibility for my hometown and the City where I’ve spent the majority of my career,” stated Karena Shackelford. “I want to thank the City Council for their trust in me and for their leadership as we continue to ensure Fremont is seen as a model City in fostering innovation and addressing issues that our community cares about. As City Manager, I will champion Fremont’s strong tradition of fiscal sustainability, safety and excellent customer service.”
The City Council will formally consider approval of an employment contract for Shackelford at its regularly scheduled Council meeting on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.
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