Atherton: Linda Kelly departs for Fairfax city manager job Atherton: Linda Kelly departs for Fairfax city manager job (December 14, 2005)

Linda Kelley is leaving her post with Atherton's town staff to become the city manager of Fairfax in Marin County.

Ms. Kelly has served as Atherton's assistant to the city manager since March 2001, and added the role of acting city clerk to her duties upon the retirement of City Clerk Sharon Barker in June 2004.

In fact, this week the City Council is set to update the job description for assistant to the city manager before advertising for Ms. Kelly's replacement, to reflect the additional tasks that she has taken on over the years.

"Linda has done an excellent job as the assistant to the city manager," said Atherton City Manager Jim Robinson. "She'll be sorely missed, but it's an excellent professional opportunity for her, and we wish her the best of success."

Ms. Kelly said her last day with the town is December 16, and she starts work in Fairfax on January 3.

"I'm going to miss working with all the (Atherton) residents," she said. "Everyone's been so wonderful to work with."

The population of Fairfax is about 7,500, roughly the same as that of Atherton, and there are other similarities as well, Ms. Kelly said. In June, Fairfax voters passed a five-year special tax to help fund city services, the same election in which Atherton voters approved a five-year parcel tax.

"I think it's a good fit for me," Ms. Kelly said. "I feel like I can be of service to the town based on my strengths and abilities. I'm anxious to get started."

She and her family plan to sell their house in Scotts Valley and move to Fairfax, she said.

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