San Bernardino, CA — The San Bernardino City Council moved forward with several major items during its June 4 meeting, including the appointment of a new city manager, the approval of more than $7 million in road improvements, and a proclamation recognizing June as Pride Month.
The council appointed Eric Levitt as the permanent city manager during a closed session, concluding months of transition and temporary leadership.
The vote passed 7–1, with Councilmember Treasure Ortiz voting in opposition.
Some residents acknowledged ongoing concerns about council turnover in executive leadership, an issue that has dominated public discourse since the departure of former interim city manager Rochelle Clayton.
“Why should the city of San Bernardino trust you to bring forth another city manager at this point in time when you have not allowed [the previous manager] to create some stability for the city’s residents,” said resident Kimberly Calvin during public comment.
The council also recognized June 2025 as Pride Month in San Bernardino.
Micah Tasaka, wellness center director for the Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance (RPYA), accepted the proclamation alongside LGBTQ+ youth leaders.
“Our goal is to provide an intergenerational brave space for LGBTQ+ youth to thrive,” Tasaka said. “Thank you for proclaiming your dedication to the LGBTQ+ people and the work that organizations like RPYA do.”
The proclamation honored the legacy of the 1969 Stonewall uprising and reinforced the city’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ residents and visitors.
The council approved an ambitious slate of street repairs under Senate Bill 1, the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.
With more than $7.35 million allocated, including $5.94 million from SB1 funds and $1.4 million from Measure I, the city will rehabilitate several major through roads.
Streets scheduled for rehabilitation include Second Street from the I-215 to Arrowhead Avenue, University Parkway from State Street to Kendall Drive, Tippecanoe Avenue from Lee Street to the Metrolink tracks, Baseline Street from Perris Hill to Mount Vernon Avenue, Waterman Avenue from the 210 Freeway south to Highland Avenue and Highland Avenue from Eucalyptus Avenue to Robinson Drive.
Councilmembers praised the scope and impact of the upgrades.
“We’re seeing more paving done in the last four months than in the last four years,” said Councilmember Treasure Ortiz. “This is the kind of tangible investment that builds trust and pride in our city.”
In other business, the council approved a revised $4.75 million construction agreement with Matich Corporation for pavement rehabilitation at 14 locations, adopted a resolution authorizing the purchase of drones through a $562,500 partnership with the County of San Bernardino for a Drone First Responder Program and discussed the city’s annual housing vacancy report under Assembly Bill (AB) 2561.
The city’s leadership transitions and infrastructure focus have sparked renewed public engagement.
Some residents remain skeptical of council motives. Others expressed support for the road improvements and LGBTQ+ recognition.
“We drive these streets every day,” said Councilmember Mario Flores. “This is a citywide effort, and it’s encouraging to see us delivering results.”
