Outgoing Canyon Lake city manager recognized for achievements

Outgoing City of Canyon Lake City Manager Chris Mann was recognized during the February council meeting. Mann, who announced his resignation on January 10, will continue to serve the City of Canyon Lake through the end of February and then start his new position serving as the city manager for the City of Yucaipa.

Mann was presented with recognitions from the Riverside County Board Supervisors, Senator Kelly Seyarto, Assemblyman Bill Essayli, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, WRCOG, Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District, Canyon Lake Fire Department, Canyon Lake Property Owners Association, and Canyon Lake City Council.

Mann became emotional as each council member shared their gratitude for his leadership and for “changing the city for the better.” Fire Chief Jeff LaTendresse, who worked closely with Mann to implement the creation of the Canyon Lake Fire Station, presented Mann with a personalized firefighter helmet.

Mann has served as city manager since March 1, 2019. In addition to implementing the creation of the fire station, Mann is widely credited with turning around the finances of Canyon Lake over his four-year stint here, professionalizing city staffing and operations, implementing popular quality of life programs that have increased General Fund revenue by 31 percent without raising taxes, launching aggressive economic development initiatives, and taking the city’s budget from an $800,000 deficit to a surplus of more than $400,000.

“When I first came here four years ago, it was a life-changing experience for me,” Mann said to the council. “This city taking a flyer on a guy that had never been a city manager but who had a lifelong career goal, I will forever be so grateful and thankful for the city and for each one of you. It’s changed my life.”

Mann thanked the community for embracing him four years ago. “Canyon Lake really is special,” Mann said. “This community is amazing. This community embraced me and I want to thank all of you for that.” He added, “The people in this community are just so warm-hearted, community-focused, and generous, and you’ve all been generous with me.”

Mann said leaving Canyon Lake has been a hard decision for him. Being able to work in city he resides in will allow Mann more time with his family. “I wouldn’t be leaving otherwise,” he said.

“Leaving Canyon Lake feels like leaving home,” Mann said. “I will always have a soft spot in my heart and love for the City Canyon Lake and for each one of you. Thank you so much.”