Menlo Park’s city manager has announced she is departing her post at the end of the month.
Starla Jerome-Robinson submitted her letter of resignation to the City Council this past Friday stating her intent to step down no later than Jan. 28.
The City Council met in special closed session later that day to discuss Jerome-Robinson’s replacement, and named Deputy City Manager Justin Murphy to become interim city manager. His official appointment was expected to be confirmed at the Jan. 11 City Council meeting.
Jerome-Robinson announced last summer of her plans to retire.
“Serving the City of Menlo Park as city manager for the last 3 years, and 7 years before that as assistant city manager, has been a great honor,” Jerome-Robinson said. “Menlo Park is a wonderful place to live and work, filled with beautiful parks and engaged residents. I’m proud of our city’s accomplishments, including the incredible adaptations and technological improvements made to continue providing city services during an extended worldwide pandemic.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such a great team of dedicated and professional public servants.”
“The City Council appreciates Starla’s years of service to Menlo Park,” Mayor Betsy Nash said. “We were fortunate to have her step up to the position a little over three years ago, coming out of retirement to serve her community yet again. We all wish her the very best in her future retirement.”
The search for a new city manager is underway. The City Council will consider candidates for the permanent appointment during the next few months.