|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
On Friday, Sept. 20, the town of Portola Valley announced that Town Manager Sharif Etman would be stepping down from his position in a mutual employment separation agreement, effective Sept. 30, according to a press release.
Etman was appointed as town manager on Aug. 23, 2023 and the end of his tenure at the town is marked by just over a year. He joined the town after former Town Manager Jeremy Dennis resigned in March 2023 after seven years on the job.
In 2023, Portola Valley experienced a staff turnover rate of nearly 70%, according to a staff report. Etman had plans to “reset, refocus and restructure” town staff with his 3-year initiative he called “Portola Valley Thrive” to enhance town revenue strategies and create structure by hiring more staff.
“I am proud of the accomplishments our team achieved during my tenure with the Town of Portola Valley,” said Etman in the statement. “We should all be proud of the proactive steps made on behalf of the community. I am looking forward to the next step in my career.”
Portola Valley Mayor Sarah Wernikoff expressed her appreciation for Etman’s dedicated service on behalf of the Town Council. “Sharif led the town through important milestones that have paved the way toward stability and financial integrity for the town,” she said.
Assistant Town Manager Corie Stocker-Pedalino has been appointed as interim town manager, effective Oct. 1, according to the press release.
Redwood City attorney sues ‘First Amendment auditors’ after Menlo Park disputeApril 2, 2026 11:31 am
Difficult times. Portola Valley is facing an organisational meltdown on top of a financial challenge. One year ago, we were hopeful that a new manager would steer things toward a better future. Alas, this hope has not been met with the right actions.
PV, Please bring us the supportive, community minded, inclusive and committed leadership that we have enjoyed in past times.