Introducing Our New Assistant City Manager: Jocelyn Francis

The City of Solana Beach is pleased to announce the selection of Jocelyn Francis as the new Assistant City Manager. She will begin her role on July 6. With her exceptional experience, proven leadership, and strong commitment to public service, Jocelyn is well-qualified to help guide the City’s operations and strategic priorities. 

Jocelyn joins Solana Beach after serving three years of service as the Assistant City Manager for the City of Avalon, the only incorporated city on Santa Catalina Island. In Avalon, she oversaw a diverse portfolio that included administrative services, information technology, code enforcement, housing, solid waste management, public information, legislative affairs, transportation, and special projects.

During her tenure, Jocelyn led several transformational initiates that strengthened operational efficiency, sustainability, and community engagement. Among her key accomplishments:

• Established Avalon’s first information technology division
• Increasing waste diversion rates and expanded recycling access, including securing and implementing reverse vending machines that enabled recycling redemption on the island for the first time in more than 20 years
• Spearheading the Pebbly Beach Landfill Site Life Optimization Project, extending the landfill’s operational lifespan
• Launched the City’s social media program to enhance transparency and public outreach
• Developed ordinances and policies addressing electric bicycle safety
• Implemented an edible food recovery program using mobile application technology
• Championed housing development initiatives
• Procured and deployed a variety of technology driven process improvements across City operations

Prior to her work in Avalon, Jocelyn served the City of Pacific Grove for eight years in key leadership roles, including Administrative Services Manager, Public Information Officer, and City Manager Pro Tempore. In these capacities, she led initiatives involving law enforcement administration, capital improvement projects, information technology, recruitment, public communications, national accreditation, and transportation programs.

Her public sector experience also includes service with the City of Monterey, City of Seaside, and City of Santa Ana, giving her a deep and well-rounded understanding of municipal operations and local government administration.

Jocelyn is a proud undergraduate alumni of San Diego State University, and holds a Master of Public Administration from California State University, Fullerton.

The City of Solana Beach is excited to welcome Jocelyn to the organization and looks forward to the leadership, innovation, and collaborative spirit she will bring to the City and the community.