SANTA MONICA— On August 27, the Director of Community Development, Armine’ Chaparyan submitted her written resignation to the City Manager, Oliver Chi indicating that she was to pursue other prospects. Chaparyan assumed her position on February 3, accepting an annual salary of $273,384.
Chaparyan’s resignation is effective as of September 10th. Her departure follows the departure of multiple other employees working in leadership positions for the City of Santa Monica.
On August 9, the City of Santa Monica announced that they were seeking a new director of Housing and Human Services to replace Heather Averick, who was appointed and served willingly from 2023-2025.
August 22nd marked the departure of Santa Monica Police Chief, Ramón Batista. The city has remained under scrutiny over that exit as some unnamed individuals have indicated the Chief was fired, while others say there is no proof of his firings, and that Chief Batista left on his own accord following a difference of opinion(s) in city policy.”
During a special session on Thursday, July 24, the City of Santa Monica’s attorney, Doug Sloan announced his decision to step down effective August 31st. Sloan has worked as City Attorney since 2022.
On September 19, 2024, City Manager David White announced the December retirement of Director of Community Development David Martin.
There was an Interim City Manager, Elaine Polacheck, who filled in following David White’s February resignation.
On May 23, the City of Santa Monica announced the hiring of Oliver Chi who had previously worked as City Manager of Irvine. Chi accepted an annual salary of $410,604 as City Manager of Santa Monica beginning July 14th.
Chi oversees a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees and a city budget of an estimated $789,9 million.
By Sharon