(February 11, 2005) -- Mike Killebrew, who's been serving as City Hall's Acting Dir. of Financial Mgt. since the departure of Bob Torrez in June 2004, has been tapped to fill the Financial Manager position.

In a written release which said City Hall conducted an extensive, nationwide recruitment, City Manager Jerry Miller said, "Mr. Killebrew competed against a very strong field of external candidates for this crucial position in the City. As Acting Director of Financial Management, he played a key leadership role with the preparation of the Fiscal Year 2004 and 2005 City Budgets, and the Three-Year Financial Strategic Plan, and has done an outstanding job with these efforts."

In the release, Mr. Killebrew said, "I am deeply honored by this appointment. The City is currently facing serious financial challenges and, with the strong leadership and the Three-Year Financial Plan in place, we will return to sound financial footing. I am looking forward to this great opportunity and to strengthening the City’s service to the community."

Mr. Killebrew, who previously served in the City Auditor's office and LB Water Dept., has been a city employee for 15 years. "He has extensive experience in auditing, strategic planning, technical systems management, fiscal and operational policy development, implementation and oversight," said the release. His most recent responsibilities have included the City Budget, the Three-Year Financial Strategic Plan, citywide optimization reviews and numerous and complex financing issues.

Mr. Killebrew earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Administration from CSULB.