Jarad Hildenbrand Appointed as New City Manager of Orange

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News Summary

The Orange City Council has appointed Jarad Hildenbrand as the new city manager, effective August 11, 2023. Hildenbrand, a native of Orange, has held multiple city manager positions and replaces retiring City Manager Tom Kisela. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, operational efficiency, and community engagement, Hildenbrand aims to enhance city governance. He holds advanced degrees in public administration and brings valuable experience to oversee a significant budget and workforce. His formal contract approval is set for the upcoming council meeting.

Orange – The Orange City Council has announced the appointment of Jarad Hildenbrand as the new city manager, effective August 11, 2023. Hildenbrand, a native of Orange, brings with him a wealth of experience from previous city manager roles in Laguna Hills, Stanton, La Habra Heights, and Villa Park.

Hildenbrand replaces retiring City Manager Tom Kisela, who has been in the position since November 2022 after a distinguished career with the Orange Police Department. The council’s decision came after a thorough search process, which aimed to find a candidate suitable for overseeing the city’s governance and administration.

Mayor Dan Slater expressed his confidence in the council’s decision, suggesting that Hildenbrand’s extensive experience would be advantageous for the city. In his new role, Hildenbrand will oversee a General Fund budget of approximately $156.2 million and manage a workforce of more than 700 full-time employees.

Focus Areas and Commitments

As city manager, Hildenbrand has identified key areas of focus including fiscal responsibility, operational efficiency, and community engagement. He aims to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability while fostering economic growth and improving organizational effectiveness within Orange.

Background and Qualifications

Jarad Hildenbrand graduated from Villa Park High School and holds a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Long Beach, along with a bachelor’s degree in public administration from California State University, Fullerton. His academic background complements his practical experience in municipal management.

Hildenbrand is married to Jessica, and together they have three children—Ryleigh, aged 12, Jaxon, aged 10, and Teagan, aged 6. He has expressed gratitude towards Mayor Slater and the City Council for the opportunity, stating it feels like a homecoming for him.

Next Steps

The formal approval of Hildenbrand’s contract is scheduled for the Orange City Council meeting on June 24, marking a significant step toward finalizing his appointment. With this new leadership, the City of Orange is expected to continue prioritizing community needs while maintaining a robust fiscal outlook.

Residents of Orange can anticipate Hildenbrand’s commitment to enhancing city operations and community interaction, reflecting the council’s vision for a more engaged and accountable local government.