CITY of Westminster Civic Center (OC Tribune photo).

Eddie Manfro, Westminster’s city manager since July 2012, has announced his resignation, effective Feb. 29.  He served as the city’s top appointed official during one of the most tumultuous eras in city history when the community was rocked both by a financial crisis and a “civil war” between political factions on the city council and in the community.

In a memo dated Jan. 16, Manfro wrote, “After much reflection, I have chosen to pursue an exciting career opportunity in the private sector. This new venture is not connected in any way to local government.”

EDDIE MANFRO (Linked In).

Mayor Tri Ta lauded Manfro, saying “We thank and applaud Eddie for his outstanding contributions to our community, and seven years of leadership as our city manager.”

Before taking the top job in the city, Manfro served as assistant city manager from Aug. 2011 to July 2012. He came to Westminster as director of human resources and risk management in October 2007.

During his tenure as city manager the city struggled with financial problems resulting in part from the aftermath of the Great Recession. In 2016, voters helped push the city back into the black with a 1 cent sales tax measure known as Measure SS.

The 2018 municipal election brought a new lineup to the city council, with the majority of Ta and council allies Kimberly Ho and Chi Charlie Nguyen opposed – in many instances – by the minority of Tai Do and Sergio Contreras.  That conflict has led to the April 7 recall election aimed at the removal from office of Ta, Ho and Nguyen.