2020-2021 San Joaquin County Grand Jury Report on the City of Manteca: A City Government in Turmoil
On July 15, 2021, the San Joaquin County 2020–2021 Civil Grand Jury released its report investigating the City of Manteca. The Civil Grand Jury’s duty is to address citizens’ concerns regarding the operation of local government entities. The City of Manteca is governed by a Mayor, City Council, and City Manager who collectively oversee the City’s finance, fire, police, public works, and parks and recreation departments.
The 2019–2020 Grand Jury opened an investigation into the City of Manteca after receiving several complaints but was unable to complete it during its term. Since that time, the City of Manteca has been the subject of numerous media reports regarding the loss of several key employees within a short period and, more recently, reports concerning serious financial issues. The 2020–2021 Grand Jury received additional complaints from concerned residents and decided to continue the investigation. In conducting its review, the Grand Jury completed more than 20 interviews with city management, staff, and members of the City Council. The Grand Jury also reviewed documents, media accounts, and relevant websites.
The Grand Jury found that a lack of effective leadership, including the promotion of unqualified individuals into executive-level positions, created a dysfunctional administration that failed to effectively manage city operations and fostered a hostile working environment. Staff reported being overworked and fearful for their jobs. The mayor, elected in November 2018, followed through on campaign promises to replace department heads perceived as slowing progress. However, the newly appointed executives lacked the experience, qualifications, and financial expertise necessary for effective management. This resulted in inconsistent employment practices, insufficient training and development, and an ill-informed reorganization plan that more experienced managers may have avoided.
The Grand Jury recommends that the City of Manteca develop, implement, and adhere to transparent personnel policies and procedures to ensure institutional knowledge is preserved during periods of transition and that employees receive appropriate training. Additionally, the City should strengthen internal and external auditing practices, with improved oversight by elected and appointed officials, to prevent future financial mismanagement.
The public is encouraged to read the complete report by visiting the Grand Jury’s website.