The Morro Bay City Council appointed John Craig as its next city manager following a recruitment that drew more than 70 applicants, the city announced Dec. 10. Craig is expected to officially step into the role after his swearing-in at the Jan. 13, 2026, City Council meeting.
“I am honored to join Morro Bay and grateful for the trust the City Council and community have placed in me,” Craig said in a Dec. 10 statement. “My goal is to listen first, learn quickly, and work together to support the council’s goals and maintain the high-quality services that reflect Morro Bay’s values.”
According to interim City Manager Andrea Leuker, the search included regional and semi-regional outreach and was conducted by executive recruitment firm Peckham & McKenny. The City Council reviewed applications with the recruiter and interviewed five finalists over a two-day period before selecting Craig.
“The city ended up with over 70 applications,” Leuker said. “The City Council interviewed five individuals, and their choice was Mr. John Craig. We’re very excited to have him come on board.”
Craig brings more than 25 years of experience in city and county government, with a background that includes financial management, infrastructure planning, and organizational leadership, according to the press release. He holds a master’s in public policy and administration from Columbia University and has served in senior leadership roles across the country.
His career includes time as city manager of Barre, Vermont; county manager of Talbot County, Maryland; deputy city manager of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; assistant county administrator of Mono County, California; and director of general services for the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico.
“Most recently, [Craig] served as deputy county manager in Los Alamos County where he oversaw finance, IT, broadband, and community services and played a central role in delivering $35 million countywide broadband expansion that reached every home in the community,” a city press release said.
Mayor Carla Wixom said Craig’s experience and leadership make him a strong fit for Morro Bay.
“We are happy to welcome John Craig as the new city manager of Morro Bay,” Wixom said in a statement. “With John’s extensive experience and commitment to community engagement, I am confident that he will lead our city with integrity and vision. Together, we will work to enhance the quality of life for our residents and honor the unique spirit of Morro Bay.”
Craig said he was drawn to Morro Bay’s natural setting and strong sense of community, noting that his professional background aligns well with the city’s priorities.
Leuker, who has served as interim city manager since July 2025, said her focus during the transition has been on maintaining continuity and supporting city operations until a permanent manager was appointed.
“The purpose of an interim is really to make sure things are moving in a forward direction,” she said. “It’s been a completely enjoyable experience working with the department head team and the City Council.”
City leadership and staff said they are enthusiastic about Craig’s appointment and optimistic about Morro Bay’s direction moving forward. ∆
This article appears in Dec 25, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026.