The City of Moreno Valley has announced the retirement of City Manager Mike Lee. His final day of service will be December 27.
During Lee's tenure, Moreno Valley completed some of its most significant improvement projects, including the City’s historic Pavement Rehabilitation Program. The City also started the largest park renovation project and constructed new public facilities like the Moreno Valley Civic Center Amphitheater, Community Demonstration Garden, Iris Branch of the Moreno Valley Public Library, and the Moreno Beach Drive Bridge project.
The City also successfully navigated through the COVID-19 pandemic with programs such as Senior Eats, Rental Rescue, and various food drives, showcasing a strong commitment to the community, emerging stronger than ever.
Moreno Valley Mayor Ulises Cabrera and the City Council all praised Lee for his long-standing and unwavering dedication to serving the City:
“The City of Moreno Valley bids farewell to an exceptional leader as Mike Lee retires after an extraordinary tenure spanning nearly 10 years with the City, including 5 years as City Manager. Mike’s visionary leadership, tireless dedication, and collaborative approach have been pivotal in achieving Moreno Valley’s most significant economic growth in its history. His efforts to attract, retain, and expand businesses have resulted in consistent economic development, financial stability, and an improved quality of life for all residents.
Through his guidance and the strong partnerships he cultivated within City Hall and with regional, state, and national leaders, Moreno Valley has reached unparalleled heights—an accomplishment few cities of our size can claim. His wisdom, hard work, and commitment have shaped our community in profound ways, and his legacy will continue to inspire us and leave a lasting impact on our community.
The City of Moreno Valley will deeply miss Mike Lee’s leadership, but we wish him the very best in this well-deserved retirement. We hope he enjoys this next chapter with his family and takes pride in the lasting impact of his incredible work. Thank you, Mike, for everything you’ve done for Moreno Valley.”
-Mayor Ulises Cabrera
"In his time at the helm of the City, Mike was instrumental in driving economic development in Moreno Valley,” said Mayor Pro Tem Councilmember Cheylynda Barnard. “His leadership during challenging times like the COVID-19 crisis further demonstrated his commitment to our residents and businesses.
He leaves behind an incredible legacy: one that will be difficult to match, and thanks to his long-term strategic planning, he leaves the City poised for even bigger successes in the near - and distant - future. His leadership was transformational and highly impactful, and his code of ethics was above reproach. I am honored to have had the opportunity to work alongside City Manager Lee, and I truly wish him the happiest of retirements with his family.”
-Mayor Pro Tem Cheylynda Barnard
“Mike Lee’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming Moreno Valley into a thriving hub of opportunity and growth. His tireless work behind the scenes, particularly in economic development, has brought countless jobs and world-class businesses to our city, paving the way for a stronger future.
His dedication, professionalism, and innovative approach have not only strengthened Moreno Valley but have also left a lasting legacy for generations to come. He will be truly missed, and we wish him all the best in his next chapter.”
-District 1 Councilmember Elena Baca-Santa Cruz
“As the old saying goes, ‘all good things must come to an end.’ City Manager Lee has served our community for many years, and he will be missed.
Mike made decisions with the residents of Moreno Valley in mind; there are many people in positions like his that want to make a name for themselves, or to bolster their personal resume, but not Mike. He made difficult and unselfish decisions on a daily basis for the residents of Moreno Valley.
He led his staff with an exceptional amount of knowledge and experience of which most cities would be envious. His departure is bittersweet because he will leave a void in City Hall. Mike has worked hard to get where he is and deserves to spend time with his family. His legacy will be remembered most by his vast economic development expertise and superior negotiation skills.”
-District 2 Councilmember Ed Delgado
“Under Mike’s guidance and leadership, Moreno Valley witnessed significant improvements in our infrastructure and public safety services. His innovative programs have further beautified our City and help to empower our community.
As a new member of the Moreno Valley City Council, I look forward to the bright future of this city that Mike Lee has helped to create with the Mayor and City Council."
-District 3 Councilmember Erlan Gonzalez
Under the leadership and guidance of the Mayor and City Council during Lee’s tenure, Moreno Valley further developed its reputation for innovation with highly impactful initiatives like the City’s WiFi Gardens, S.A.F.E.R., Beautify MoVal, CLiC, Hire MoVal, MoVaLEARNS and boasts the largest municipal EV fleet in the Inland Empire. The City also earned multiple regional, state, national, and international awards, including three impressive Helen Putnam Awards from the League of California Cities.
The City’s economy flourished under Lee, and welcomed Fortune 500 and International companies like Aldi Foods, Deckers Outdoors, and Karma Automotive. In addition, popular chains such as Sprouts, Dutch Bros, Raising Cane’s, 85°C Bakery Cafe, and Tractor Supply Company set up shop in Moreno Valley. The City also expanded its medical facility footprint with the expansion of Kaiser Permanente and Riverside County Health System Medical Center.
Lee prioritized fiscal responsibility and continued the City’s impressive streak of 12 consecutive years of balanced budgets and maintaining an AA bond rating.
Lee expressed his gratitude to the community, City leadership, and staff, stating, “In the past five years as your City Manager and over the nine years in an executive management role in this organization, we have accomplished so much together, and I leave knowing that the City is well-positioned for the future. I have found it professionally and personally rewarding to be part of such an amazing, community-driven team,” he adds. “While I look forward to my next chapter in life, I will miss this city.”