Monte Sereno’s new city manager moves up from interim role

Monte Sereno’s interim city manager now has the permanent gig.

Diane Perkins, who had served in the interim role since last September, was appointed city manager last month. Perkins initially stepped into the position when Steve Leonardis stepped down as city manager.

She will continue to be in charge of the day-to-day administration of the city and implementation of city council policies and will oversee all city departments and services.

“I am honored to be selected as the city manager for Monte Sereno,” said Perkins in a release. “I am looking forward to continuing to work with City Council, staff and residents to further our top priorities, which include wildfire prevention and safety, balancing the city budget, implementing our Housing Element programs, updating the General Plan and improving internal operations to increase efficiency. I am deeply committed to Monte Sereno and together, we will continue to enhance our focus on services and maintain our cherished rural character.”

Perkins previously served as city planner, starting that job in July 2021. She was credited with helping get the city’s Housing Element approved by the state. She was previously a plan check manager at Shums Coda Associates and a permit center coordinator for the City of Sunnyvale. Perkins holds a Master of Public Administration degree.

“We’re thrilled to have Diana take on the role of city manager permanently,” said Mayor Burton Craig, adding that her “experience and knowledge, coupled with her extensive background in city planning, makes her the ideal choice to lead Monte Sereno. We are confident in her ability to guide our city forward and ensure the high quality of life for our residents.”