WILLIAMS, CA (MPG) – In her first month on the job, City Manager Yvonne Kimball said she is focused on building relationships and advancing key projects as she settles into her new role.
At the City Council’s March 18 meeting, Kimball described her first weeks as “very busy and productive,” noting she is working to get up to speed on city operations and ongoing initiatives. She thanked the council for its support and reception.
“I’m grateful to the community members for opening their arms to welcome me,” she said.
Kimball also highlighted the experience and commitment of city staff.
“I feel inspired … many of them were born and raised in the community and they are really committed to the success of the entire community,” she said.
Among early challenges, Kimball pointed to the difficulty of finding housing in Williams, though she emphasized the overall transition has been positive.
Kimball said her initial priorities include strengthening communication, supporting the council, and maintaining organizational leadership while moving projects forward.
“My goal with city council’s direction is to punch them through so that we can see the results,” she said.
One of those projects is the E Street redesign, a multiyear infrastructure effort the city delayed to March to allow Kimball to oversee the next phase, including a required median household income study. The project is supported by a $9.3 million California Transportation Commission grant and $1 million in federal funding and includes storm drainage improvements, pedestrian and bicycle paths, and replacement of water and sewer mains.
Finance Director Rex Greenbaum, who has been working with Kimball during the transition, said her approach has already set a tone for staff.
“She has high expectations,” Greenbaum said. “We know she will maximize our resources.”
Greenbaum reported the city remains financially stable. Williams currently holds about $10.2 million in total cash and investments, including approximately $2.78 million in net General Fund balance after obligations. Sales and transient occupancy tax revenues are tracking close to projections, and expenditures remain below budget, he said.
Looking ahead, Kimball said she plans to expand communication with residents through newsletters and other outreach efforts.
“We want to keep the community informed and involved,” she said.