GONZALES — After an extensive search resulting in candidates applying from across the nation, Gonzales City Council has appointed Trevin Barber as city manager.
Barber most recently served as assistant city manager at the City of Seaside. He brings to his new position more than 12 years of diverse municipal management experience in the areas of finance, economic development, redevelopment, policy initiatives, special projects management, legislative and intergovernmental affairs.
“Trevin’s youthful energy and enthusiasm as well as his well-rounded experience and deep understanding of municipal government were important factors in our selection,” said Mayor Jose Rios. “I am confident Trevin has the skills and experience to lead our city into the future, and I am excited to welcome him to our city.”
Barber started his new leadership role with the City of Gonzales on Jan. 17, taking over for Carmen Gil, who has been serving as interim city manager since June 2022 after the departure of former City Manager Rene Mendez. Gil will return to her previous position as the City’s director of community engagement and strategic partnerships.
Prior to joining the City of Seaside, Barber served as senior management analyst with the City of Gilroy. Directly supporting the city council and city manager, Barber implemented economic development and performance management programs. He represented the City of Gilroy in a variety of public forums, developing constructive community relationships with various diverse interest groups to build consensus.
Barber also spent over eight years serving in various roles with the City of Lancaster. He was directly involved with the planning, development, management and implementation of programs and innovative policy initiatives including several successful economic development projects.
“I am honored the City Council has selected me to be the next city manager, and I am thrilled to serve the beautiful community of Gonzales,” Barber said. “I look forward to partnering with the community and working alongside city staff to continue the positive momentum and success the City has achieved.”
Barber received a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a Master of Public Administration from California State University, Bakersfield, as a member of the Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society. He is also an Eagle Scout with Scouts BSA and an active Den Leader for Pack 455.
Shame on these cities that keep hiring people who have not ever supervised departments or employees of any note. They rise through the ranks of a city system as a result of hanging on to someone’s coattails making coffee and copies.
Somehow many city councils across the country think that because they have done the minding work in City Managers’ offices they can run a city. What a shame that the Councils do not learn or adapt to a new way of thinking.