After a contentious selection process, San Bernardino taps Eric Levitt as its new City Manager, aiming to stabilize finances and rebuild community trust
Eric Levitt City Manager AppointmentSan Bernardino, California (Times Media Service) – In a closely watched decision, the San Bernardino City Council voted 4–3 to confirm Eric Levitt City Manager Appointment, ending months of debate and leaving residents cautiously optimistic about the city’s future. Levitt, formerly Deputy City Manager in Riverside, steps into the top municipal role amid pressing budget shortfalls and rising demand for improved public services.
Divisive Interview Process Leads to Eric Levitt City Manager Appointment
San Bernardino’s search for a permanent leader began in January, when the previous interim City Manager announced her departure after 18 months on the job. The council received over 40 applications and narrowed the list to five finalists. Over two marathon sessions in May, each candidate faced pointed questions on budget recovery, homelessness, and public safety.
Councilmembers were split on priorities. Some emphasized Levitt’s track record in restoring Riverside’s parks budget, while others questioned his experience managing a bankruptcy-era city like San Bernardino. “We needed someone who understands our challenges inside and out,” said Councilmember Victor Ramirez, who supported Levitt’s nomination. Opponents cited a lack of local roots and called for more community input.
Tensions flared when Levitt was pressed about his plan to reduce pension liabilities. His calm response—outlining a five-year plan to renegotiate benefits with employee unions—won nods from moderates but concern from union advocates. “He spoke clearly about tough choices,” said Mayor Pro Tem Lucia Chavez, who ultimately joined the majority in casting a deciding vote.
Profile of the New City Manager
Eric Levitt, 48, brings over two decades of public administration experience to San Bernardino. He earned a master’s degree in public policy from the University of California, Riverside, and began his career as a budget analyst. In Riverside, he led a team that closed a $12 million deficit without major service cuts.
Colleagues describe him as data-driven and collaborative. “Eric is the kind of manager who listens first, then acts,” said Riverside City Manager Tony Hart, who mentored Levitt. Business leaders note his skill in forging public–private partnerships for infrastructure projects, a capability critics hope he will deploy to revitalize San Bernardino’s aging roads and utilities.
Levitt acknowledged the city’s recent struggles. “San Bernardino has faced real challenges, from bankruptcy to service gaps,” he said in his acceptance remarks. “My goal is to restore fiscal stability and ensure every neighborhood receives the attention it deserves.”
Resident Reactions and Community Concerns
News of Levitt’s appointment drew mixed responses among San Bernardino residents. On West 5th Street, longtime homeowner Maria Torres said she feels “cautiously hopeful” that trash collection and street repairs will improve. Nearby, small-business owner Jamal Reed worried that budget cuts might jeopardize hiring.
Local community group Inland Voices issued a statement urging Levitt to hold regular town halls. “Transparency must be our watchword,” said spokesperson Carla Jenkins. Advocates for unhoused residents pressed for a clear plan to expand shelter capacity and mental health services. “Words are good, but we need action,” said advocate Daniel Wu, who attended the council meeting.
Some union members remain skeptical. Service employees union leader Angela Morales criticized the process as “rushed” and vowed to negotiate fiercely on behalf of city workers. “We’ll hold him to his word,” she said. Council leadership has promised monthly updates to build trust.
Levitt’s Agenda for Fiscal Recovery
In his transition plan, Levitt outlined four key priorities: balancing the operating budget, upgrading infrastructure, reducing homelessness, and strengthening emergency preparedness. He proposes a mid-year budget revision to close a projected $8 million gap by trimming non-essential contracts and seeking state grants.
On infrastructure, Levitt intends to launch a citywide pavement evaluation to target the worst-condition streets first. He also plans to revive dormant bond measures for water-system improvements, contingent on voter approval in November. “We cannot postpone maintenance,” he said.
Addressing homelessness, Levitt will partner with county agencies to open two new temporary shelters and expand outreach teams. For public safety, he advocates for a community policing model that assigns officers to neighborhood beats, hoping the approach will foster stronger resident relationships and reduce response times.
Next Steps in San Bernardino’s Governance
Eric Levitt officially assumes office on July 1, with an introductory “State of the City” address scheduled for July 15. The City Council has arranged a retreat later in the month to align on strategic goals and performance metrics.
Levitt’s first 90 days will be critical. He must win labor agreement revisions, secure grant funding, and demonstrate early wins on street repairs to sustain council support. Observers note that continued unity among councilmembers will be essential to avoid the gridlock that dogged previous administrations.
Longer term, Levitt and the Council aim to present a five-year strategic plan by year’s end, defining benchmarks for financial health and quality-of-life improvements. “This is our moment to reset the city’s trajectory,” Mayor Helen Tran said. Residents and stakeholders will watch closely to see if Levitt’s promise of fiscal discipline and community engagement translates into tangible change.
Thomas Yarnell / Inland Empire Contributor (Times Media Service)
Thomas Yarnell brings 20+ years of Inland Empire experience and deep understanding of how communities operate across the region.
tyarnell@timesmediaservice.com
