Justin Clifton is rarely at a loss for words. But that’s how he found himself during his final meeting as Sedona city manager.
“We’ve dealt with a number of contentious issues. We’ve had hostile audiences and pointed critiques and I’ve probably not been as uncomfortable through all of that as I am right now. So thanks for that parting gift,” he said following 20 minutes of praise from the city council, which elicited a laugh from everyone at the meeting on Tuesday, March 23.
Nearly two months ago Clifton announced that after nearly six years in Sedona, he had accepted a city manager position in Palm Springs, Calif. His last day was Thursday, March 25. Assistant City Manager and Economic Development Director Karen Osburn was named the new city manager shortly after Clifton’s announcement.
“The entire city council is extremely impressed by Justin’s energy and enthusiasm for Palm Springs and the values that make our city unique,” Palm Springs Mayor Christy Holstege said in a press release at the time Clifton was chosen.
Palm Springs Mayor Pro Tem Lisa Middleton, who served on the selection subcommittee, agreed.
“He was selected for his insight into the future of the city, commitment to community engagement, interest in investing in residents and neighborhoods, expertise in economic development, experience in a thriving tourism economy and his strong financial acumen,” she said.
During Tuesday’s meeting, each member of council took time to thank Clifton for his time in Sedona while former Vice Mayor John Martinez said hiring Clifton was one of the best decisions made during his eight years on council. The others praised him for his leadership and vision while helping to move projects forward.
“It’s a bittersweet day for all of us,” Mayor Sandy Moriarty said. “I’m happy he has the opportunity to advance the way he is and we wish him nothing but the best.”
Clifton said it has been an honor and pleasure to have served the council, staff and community as city manager. He said while there have been many long days, the past six years have flown by. He said while he appreciated the praise from council, a lot of credit from what has been accomplished during his tenure should go to city staff and the council itself. And even with contentious issues, Clifton said he always felt council and staff were on the same page and wanted what was best for the community.
“When we were in the trenches, we were in the trenches together,” he said. “I looked forward to coming to work every day no matter what was going on, no matter how hard it was, no matter how tense and no matter the challenge. That’s because if I walked through the courtyard or down a hallway I was grateful to see everyone I saw.”
He concluded by saying, “I grew roots here and will be back. Sedona will never leave my heart.”
