Miguel Márquez (Photo – City of Pasadena)
The Pasadena City Council announced on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, that City Manager Miguel Márquez will retire to focus on family during a time of personal need.
By News Desk
Miguel Márquez joined the City in August 2022, bringing experience as Chief Operating Officer of Santa Clara County and as an Associate Justice of California’s Sixth District Court of Appeal. His leadership guided Pasadena through several major challenges.
During his tenure, Mr. Márquez appointed most of Pasadena’s current executive leadership team and built a capable, collaborative group focused on effective governance. Key accomplishments include:
- Maintaining fiscal stability, including balanced budgets and restoring financial reserves to pre-pandemic levels
- Securing long-term labor agreements with City employee unions
- Passing Measures PL and L to support the retrofit and upgrade of the historic Central Library and operational support for city libraries
- Investing in upgraded police and fire equipment
- Improving streets through infrastructure projects
- Securing over $1 billion in long-term carbon-free energy contracts, reaching 92% of the City’s 100% carbon-free goal by 2030
- Leading response and recovery efforts following the windstorm and Eaton Fire earlier this year
Márquez has been recognized for his fairness, intelligence, and collaboration with the City Council.
“While Miguel’s departure is a significant loss for our City, we fully support his decision to prioritize his family,” said Mayor Victor Gordo. “We are deeply grateful for his service and the example he has set of selfless, principled leadership.”
Reflecting on his decision, Márquez said: “Serving the people of Pasadena has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I’m grateful for the trust and support of the City Council, our dedicated staff, and this remarkable community. In light of my father’s recent passing, my family needs me at this time, and I need to be there for them. I leave knowing the City is fiscally stable, in good hands, and is on a solid path forward.”
Miguel Márquez will continue as City Manager until a permanent successor is appointed, ensuring a smooth transition.
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