
After eight years of service, Lake Elsinore City Manager Grant Yates submitted a letter of resignation announcing his retirement in February 2021.
Yates was appointed to serve as city manager in November 2012. He has more than 34 years of local government experience including many years of public service in the cities of Carlsbad and Temecula.
“We are forever grateful to Mr. Yates for his commitment, leadership, and service to ensure the City of Lake Elsinore is in a much better place than when he joined us eight years ago,” said Mayor Bob Magee. “He has established an amazing team and a legacy of excellence that has set the framework for ongoing, future success as we remain united in our efforts to create a world-class city.”
In his resignation letter, Yates stated that serving the City Council and the residents of Lake Elsinore for the past eight years has been an honor and privilege and the highlight of his career. He went on to mention that he is very proud of the organization and the talented team of professionals who work tirelessly every day to improve the quality of life for the residents of Lake Elsinore.
Under his leadership, the city navigated several unique crisis situations, such as the Holy Fire and the Super Bloom. Notable projects during his years of service include the city’s first full-scale youth recreation park, Rosetta Canyon Sports Park; the complete rehabilitation of the city’s campground, Launch Pointe Recreation Destination & RV Park; the approval and start of construction on the long-awaited I-15 Railroad Canyon Road Interchange Project; the creation of the city’s first long-term strategic plan, Dream Extreme 2040 Plan; and the passage of a transaction and use tax, Measure Z.
No decision has been made for Yates’ replacement. The City Council will meet at a future date to discuss the next steps and ongoing management of the city.
“On behalf of my colleagues and I, we want to thank Mr. Yates for his professionalism and care for our community,” said Magee. “While he will be greatly missed, we hope he will enjoy a long and joyous retirement with his wife and family.”