Neighbor News
Councilmember's Column (July 27 - August 2)
Councilmember Eric Lucan shares city news, events and meetings on the horizon, and on occasion a few spontaneous thoughts.
On my Mind
Big news today from the City of Novato as City Manager Michael Frank announced his resignation after serving the city for over 6 years. You can read the full announcement here.
In the moments after his announcement, I started to get a couple of questions about what’s next for Novato and what our plan will be moving forward. Important questions, but nothing that needs to be decided immediately as Michael will continue in his role through the end of the year. Instead of jumping ahead, today is a time to reflect on Michael’s contributions and what has set him apart as an important leader in Novato.
His financial expertise helped guide Novato through the Great Recession as well as the loss of redevelopment. His leadership played a significant role in crafting and executing our strategic plans over the years. Finally, his professionalism and people skills assisted the city council in reaching consensus with each other and with staff when faced with difficult decisions.
Find out what's happening in Novatofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Michael’s skillset and expertise encompassed everything one could look for in a city manager, but he also went beyond the duties of the job. Michael didn’t just work for the City of Novato for the past 6 years--he called Novato home. If there was a community event, big or small, chances are Michael was there. Rather than just “make an appearance”, you would often find him volunteering with the event, interacting with members of the community, or generally just having a good time.
Being a city manager is by no means a 9 to 5 job as Michael’s commitment to Novato proved that fact. He clocked in on his first day over 6 years ago and knowing him, he won’t clock out until his very last day at the end of the year. For that dedication, it is important to also thank his husband and daughter for sharing Michael with Novato and its residents. To Michael, I wish you the best in your next endeavors and thanks for making Novato a City that Works!
Around Town
Novato Space Festival is Out of this World – The Annual Novato Space Festival brought out packed crowds to meet some astronauts and geek out over space, science, and even a little Star Wars. Congrats to Ken & Debbie with the Novato Space Station Museum for another incredible event! Pictures
The Week Ahead
No City Council Meeting this Week
