After eight years of dedicated service to the City of Lomita, City Manager Ryan Smoot has announced his resignation. He will move to the City of Bellflower as its new city manager beginning in the new year.
Smoot got his start in local government back in 2009, where he served in progressively responsible management positions with the Cities of Villa Park and Bellflower. Ryan found his break into the city manager profession when the Lomita City Council brought him on board in 2016.
As one of the youngest city managers in not only Lomita’s history, but in the profession, Smoot leaves a substantial legacy of progress and achievement. Notably, his organizational leadership created a culture of approachability among a passionate staff who care deeply for the community they serve. During his time as city manager, Smoot also worked to revitalize downtown Lomita by introducing various special events encouraging community gathering in support of local businesses. Smoot guided the reimagination of Lomita’s annual State of the City event, evolving from a reading at a City Council Meeting to a well-attended, collaborative event for residents to join and learn about city accomplishments and goals. He also spearheaded the Founders Day’s expansion to a two-day celebration providing Lomita residents with the opportunity to celebrate Lomita’s rich history and roots.
“As I approach the end of my time as city manager of Lomita, I reflect with gratitude on the years spent serving this exceptional community,” said Smoot. “I have no doubt that the City Council will select a qualified, knowledgeable individual to assume my role alongside our highly capable city staff.”
While City Council works to recruit a new city manager, former Interim City Manager of Signal Hill, Joe Hoefgen, will step in as Lomita’s interim city manager. Bringing with him over thirty years of local government experience, Hoefgen has notably served as the city manager of Redondo Beach and Palos Verdes Estates.
“Our city is eternally grateful for Ryan Smoot and the contributions he has made to our community,” said Lomita Mayor Bill Uphoff. “We are proud to welcome Joe Hoefgen to Team Lomita as we diligently search for our new city manager.”
Smoot’s final day as city manager is Monday, January 1 and the City is actively involved in the recruitment process to select Lomita’s next city manager.
