MALIBU—On Tuesday, February 9, Malibu City Manager Jim Thorsen made the announcement that he would be retiring from his post as Malibu City Manager; a position he held for more than 10 years. Thorsen will retire on May 2, 2016.

“Jim’s retirement coincides with the City’s 25th Anniversary. As we take stock of all the accomplishments of the City, we will find Jim’s fingerprints on so many,” stated Mayor Rosenthal. “The City owes him a real debt of gratitude for his professionalism and tireless efforts on behalf of our residents. Personally, for me and the entire Council, Jim has been a tremendous leader, making our jobs so much easier. We will miss him.”

According to a news release from the city of Malibu website, Thorsen is the City’s sixth and largest serving City Manager to date. Before stepping into the role as Malibu City Manager he served as Assistant City Manager and Public Works Director for Agoura Hills.

While holding his position, Thorsen helped the City’s annual budget grow from $8 million to $20 million and maintained an AAA credit rating. He was responsible for overseeing three major park projects which included: Legacy Park, which garnered the City a dozen awards, including the prestigious League of California Cities Helen Putnam award, the American Society of Civil Engineers 2011 Project of the Year award for California, and was named among the best civil engineering projects in the entire country; Trancas Canyon Park, which was awarded the 2011 “Best Park” by the American Public Works Association; and Las Flores Creek Park, which was completed just this month.

He also took the lead for the purchase of City Hall, the reconstruction of the Malibu Library, and countless public works and clean water projects.

“Of everything we have been able to accomplish, I have to say that I am most proud of the professional staff,” said Thorsen. “In the end, City Hall is a service organization, and our ability to accomplish the Council’s goals is dependent on the teamwork of City staff. I have been lucky to have great staff to work with.”

He is a licensed civil engineer and his retirement completes a 32-year career of public service to both the states of California and Colorado.