Manhattan Beach Finance Director Steve Charelian has announced his retirement after a 35-year career with the city. 

“It has been an honor to serve as the finance director for the beautiful city of Manhattan Beach,” said Charelian in a statement. “The Finance Department has a strong, talented, and dedicated team who provide outstanding customer service. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am confident that the city is well-positioned for continued success built on a solid foundation of prudent financial management.”

Charelian began his career with the city 35 years ago, serving in a leadership role in the Finance Department for 11 years, before being appointed finance director in 2018. Charelian led the department through the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to adjust the city’s transient occupancy tax, the passage of the storm drain measure in 2023, the implementation of a new financial system, issuance of pension obligation bonds, and reaffirmation of the City’s AAA rating.

“Steve’s commitment to excellence and fiscal responsibility has paved the way for our city to achieve important financial goals,” said Mayor Joe Franklin in a statement. “On behalf of my city Council colleagues I would like to sincerely thank Steve for his many years of public service. You helped keep Manhattan Beach on the right track financially, and for that we are very grateful.”

In the same statement from the city, City Manager Bruce Moe said, “Steve has been an integral part of our City’s administration. His commitment, expertise, and integrity have greatly contributed to our community’s well-being. In his 35 years with the city of Manhattan Beach, Steve has been instrumental in shaping financial policy and the fiscal health of our city. We will miss his presence, and are deeply grateful for his remarkable service. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Charelian’s retirement will be effective July 5. He plans to spend more time with his family and pursue personal interests, including raising his two young children in Manhattan Beach. The city is evaluating options for an interim finance director and a search for a permanent director will follow.