Lake Elsinore Says Farewell To Respected Staffer

James Riley said goodbye to Lake Elsinore Tuesday night during the regularly scheduled city council meeting. 

But given city and resident response, he won’t be forgotten.

Riley, who has served the city as director of administrative services, accepted a position near his home with the City of Oceanside.

If it weren’t for the commute, Riley said he would stay in Lake Elsinore.

“This is an exciting place to be,” Riley said of Lake Elsinore. The city’s growth and future potential are attractive, he explained, noting Lake Elsinore's ranking as fastest growing city in Riverside County and third fastest-growing in California.

Staff and council members commended Riley’s performance, noting his intelligence and humbleness, with City Treasurer Allen Baldwin remarking that Riley’s “character” fit well in a city that is unique in both its people and its history.

Mayor Bob Magee and City Councilman Steve Manos praised Riley for taking a position with the city when the recession was underway.

Riley was “a bright spot in the city when there were dark times in the community,” Manos said.

When Magee handed Riley a plaque that honored his years of service in the city, council members, staff and audience members stood with applause.

Mayor Pro Tem Natasha Johnson reminded Riley that his roots are in Lake Elsinore and added, “Don’t forget to dream extreme.”