Aug 31, 2008

Outgoing city manager era ends quietly

Frank Benest cleans out desk; Keene starts Tuesday

By Will Oremus / Daily News Staff Writer

Outgoing Palo Alto city manager Frank Benest cleaned out his office Friday and will be gone when the Jim Keene era begins Tuesday.

Benest had anticipated staying on for a week or two to ease the transition, but Keene instead came in for orientation last week. The pair discussed major issues such as infrastructure funding, plans for a new public safety building, and the library bond on the November ballot.

Benest said he's getting out of the way so Keene can start fresh.

"He's a pro," he said. "He should learn Palo Alto on his own."

Benest announced in November he would retire June 30 after eight years of service. But when the city's selection of a replacement took longer than expected, he agreed to stay on until his successor started work.

A private party in his honor was held Thursday evening at the Palo Alto Art Center.

Speaking on his last day at the office, Benest said he believes he's leaving the city in solid shape. He cited a balanced budget, a well-trained staff and a strong relationship between the staff and the city council.

Still, he added, Keene will not lack for challenges to confront. He must figure out how to finance the new police building, keep the city economically vital and guide Stanford University's expansion of its hospitals and shopping center.

Now that he has stepped down, Benest plans to remain in Palo Alto with his two children while writing, teaching and consulting on local government elsewhere, including for the International City/County Management Association. Some of his work will be done pro bono.

Keene's first city council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 8.



E-mail Will Oremus at woremus@dailynewsgroup.com.