The Goleta City Council wrapped up its last meeting of the year on Dec. 19 with a special recognition for outgoing Assistant City Manager Kristine “Kristy” Schmidt.
Schmidt was presented with a City Tile in appreciation of her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the city of Goleta during her nearly five years of service.
Before she leaves on Dec. 30 to take on the next stage of her career as the human resources director for the county of Santa Barbara, the council thanked Schmidt for the mark she left during her time in the key leadership position.
The council praised Schmidt for her can-do spirit, enthusiasm, cheerfulness and integrity.
“You always make yourself available and you are so kind and professional. We wish you well and will miss you,” said Mayor Paula Perotte.
“It has been an enormous honor to serve as the assistant city manager for the city of Goleta,” Schmidt said. “I have been so lucky to work for two incredible city managers, and with a management team and staff that is dedicated, energized and high performing throughout the organization.”
She also thanked the City Council, saying, “I am so impressed with how you bring your attention, intelligence and heart to everything that affects this city. I look forward to seeing what you do next and watching Goleta thrive.”
View the tile presentation on the city website at http://tinyurl.com/36cpx36u (item C.1).
Schmidt served the city during a pivotal time in its history. She helped guide city operations through the COVID-19 pandemic and helped replace and transition to a new city manager, Robert Nisbet, when Michelle Greene retired.
“Kristy’s impact on Goleta will be felt for years to come,” Nisbet said. “She chose public service as her life’s work because of the positive impact you can make. It has been refreshing and an honor to work alongside her.”
Before working for the city of Goleta, Schmidt spent 22 years at the city of Santa Barbara. She began as an administrative analyst, became employee relations manager and then director of Administrative Services.
Schmidt has a Juris Doctorate from the Santa Barbara College of Law and an undergraduate degree from UCSB.
She starts her new job with the county on Jan. 2.
Recruitment is underway for a new assistant city manager for Goleta. Applications are being accepted until Jan. 8. To apply, go to www.governmentjobs.com/careers/goletaca.