Meet Candis Hong, Agoura's New City Treasurer

Accountant Candis Hong is the City of Agoura Hills' new treasurer.

The Thousand Oaks resident is replacing Lily Ruff who passed away last March, after a 28-year stint as founding city treasurer.

Hong’s credentials are impeccable, having served as assistant city manager for the City of Thousand Oaks just before her retirement last September. She started working there 21 years ago as a senior accountant before moving up the ranks.

It was at her retirement party that she heard about the job opening in Agoura. “A few [people] came up to me and mentioned it,” said the mother of two grown children.

That gathering started the ball rolling and before she knew it, she was hired. “I already knew some of them, and they’re really good at what they do,” said Hong.

The demands of the city treasurer’s job includes working under the direction of the City Council and assisting with the planning and organization of city treasury activities at approximately five hours per month.

Newly elected mayor also outlined the city treasurer’s priorities. “Safety, liquidity and return are important in terms of the city’s investment policies,” he said. “Candis will make sure the city’s monies conform with these priorities.”

“I’m also expected to advise the city on investments, maximize returns, review reports and implement internal financial controls,” said Hong. “Of course, all of that should be in compliance with all state and federal laws.”

Hong has an extensive history in public service, having also worked for the counties of Los Angeles and Ventura prior to her City of Thousand Oaks stint.

She obtained her accounting degree from California State University Northridge (CSUN).

With retirement, Hong has been looking forward to spending more time with husband Jerry, their two grown children and two grandchildren, ages 2 and 4.

Traveling, volunteer work and gardening are also part of her plans. The avid gardener has signed up to take part in a five-month master gardener program of UC Davis Extension in Ventura County.

As a volunteer, Hong is also heavily involved with the Conejo Schools Foundation, a couple of executive boards and her own church.

There may not be a lot of down time as she had anticipated but she’s not one to complain. “I can do it all even with this new job,” she said.