Encinitas hires Jennifer Campbell as new city manager

Jennifer Campbell has been appointed the new city manager of Encinitas. Her contract includes a base salary of $309,000 and a $20,000 annual contribution to her retirement plan. She will also receive a monthly car allowance of $500. The City Council approved her contract in a 4-0 vote, with one member absent. Mayor Bruce Ehlers expressed confidence in Campbell's abilities and described her as the right fit for the city. Council members praised her energy and potential to lead. “You’re our next Tom Brady,” said Councilmember Jim O’Hara. Campbell, who is enthusiastic about her new role, thanked the council and noted her desire to meet the community's expectations. Campbell has a background in city management, having been the acting city manager for Encinitas before her permanent appointment. She started working for the city in 2016 and was appointed assistant city manager in 2021. Her predecessor left after a change in the City Council. Some residents raised concerns about the salary and benefits package. One resident, Rachel Graves, mentioned that other nearby cities pay lower salaries for their city managers. For example, Escondido’s manager earns less, with a base salary of $280,000. Despite the concerns, Ehlers highlighted that Campbell has strong qualifications and that she has been with the city long enough to benefit from a less costly pension plan.