| ||||||
An excerpt from the letter states, "Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to serve as Moraga's Town Manager for most of the past five years. I have found the experience incredibly rewarding, and I am very proud of what we've accomplished together during that time." Battenberg continued, "Thus, it is with mixed emotions that I now submit this letter of resignation to you as part of my plan to leave full-time city management at the end of this calendar year to pursue other career interests."
Battenberg noted the numerous challenges that Moraga has faced and overcome in recent years such as: climbing its way back to financial solvency; identifying unfunded infrastructure needs in order to invest in the town's storm drain system and other public assets; completing construction of the new Canyon Road Bridge; improving the condition of the town's streets; finishing legacy development applications and implementing the 2010 Moraga Center Specific Plan; working on the completion of the Comprehensive Advanced Planning Initiative towards future town development; activating the Hacienda de las Flores for greater community usage; creating recreation and after school programs; and more. So many of these achievements were accomplished in the midst of COVID-19 county mandates.
During the Oct. 12 meeting, council members expressed their sadness and dismay at Battenberg's leaving, while also acknowledging the many undertakings that she and her small staff have completed in such a short amount of time.
The task at hand is to find a replacement for Battenberg's position, and the council has agreed to the services of an executive recruitment firm and has formed a Town Manager Recruitment Ad Hoc Committee through Oct. 26 while interviewing firms to bring a recommendation to the council for their next meeting.
"I am confident that I now leave you in good hands, as Moraga's team of capable and dedicated Directors will continue their exceptional work on the numerous projects and initiatives currently underway," Battenberg's letter added. "Moraga Town employees have an unwavering commitment to serving this community, and it has been my sincere pleasure to serve with them.
"I wish you and the Moraga community all the best in the years to come. Thank you so much for your partnership over the years!"
Reach the reporter at:
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA