Retiring San Carlos city manager praised

Past and current San Carlos councilmembers spoke to Maltbie’s leadership and driven efforts to make the city fiscally sound, and live up to its motto as the City of Good Living. 

In 2010, the city was in a far different fiscal state than it currently boasts, many commenters noted. Taking over the city during a strenuous budget crisis was a daunting task, but Maltbie took on the challenge head on, councilmembers said. 

A major decision, led by Maltbie, to outsource and reimagine public safety services dug the city out of a financial hole, and was critical to restoring a health budget, Councilmember Sara McDowell said. 

Maltbie also helped the city through a crisis with Pacific Gas and Electric that resulted in a sturdy settlement, and through the “dark and uncertain” times of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Jeff met hard times with a can-do attitude and creativity,” McDowell said. “He did not stop, we did not close the doors.” 

San Carlos councilmembers and staff worked diligently in the last few years to “replan everything in this city” to set it up for the next couple decades of success, Councilmember John Dugan said. Matlbie, and his consistent guidance, were critical in making those plans, Dugan said. 

“I know a lot more than I did before I met you,” Dugan said to Maltbie. “I hope you return and see it all.” 

Maltbie’s consistency was recognized by multiple speakers. 

In 40 years, San Carlos has only had three city managers. During former Mayor Ron Collins’ 13 years on council, Maltbie was the only city manager he ever worked with, he said. 

While Maltbie held the position, he worked with and served alongside 17 different councilmembers — the last being Neil Layton, who joined the City Council in 2024. 

During his final remarks before exiting the dais, Maltbie recognized the hardworking staff and councilmembers he has worked beside. Though he is happily retiring, local government will continue to, just as it always has, serve a critical role in his life. 

“There was no time in my life that city hall wasn’t present,” Maltbie said. ‘It’s not really a goodbye, that’s not what I want to do. I just want to express my gratitude.” 

Assistant City Manager Nil Blackburn is slated to serve as the interim city manager, effective Jan. 16, earning a monthly salary of $28,851.53. The city is in the process of finding the next permanent city manager.