On January 7, Sunnyvale inaugurated its newly elected city council members, marking a fresh chapter in local governance. The city also announced the appointment of Matthew Paulin as the new finance director, bringing extensive experience to oversee financial operations and key projects. These changes reflect the city's commitment to maintaining fiscal stability and enhancing community services.

New Faces on the City Council

The transition of power in Sunnyvale's city council brings a mix of returning and new representatives. Larry Klein retains his position as mayor, while Alysa Cisneros begins her second term representing District 2. Charlsie Chang and Eileen Le join the council for the first time, replacing outgoing members Russ Melton and Omar Din, respectively. Linda Sell was appointed vice mayor, taking over from Murali Srinivasan who served in this role during the previous year. This reshuffle ensures continuity and fresh perspectives in city leadership.

This change in the council composition underscores the dynamic nature of civic governance. Returning members like Klein and Cisneros bring valuable experience, while newcomers Chang and Le introduce fresh ideas and energy. Linda Sell's appointment as vice mayor signifies the council's trust in her ability to lead effectively. Her one-year term will focus on fostering collaboration among council members and addressing pressing community issues. The transition was smooth, reflecting the city's commitment to seamless governance and public service excellence.

Matthew Paulin Joins as Finance Director

Sunnyvale has welcomed Matthew Paulin as the new finance director, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in financial management. He takes over from Tim Kirby, who recently moved to the role of city manager. Paulin will be responsible for overseeing the city's financial operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting major initiatives such as the Cleanwater Program and Civic Center Modernization project. His starting salary is set at $330,000.

Paulin's background includes significant roles in municipal, county, and state agencies, making him well-suited to lead Sunnyvale's finance department. His collaborative work style and dedication to staff development are highly regarded. Prior to joining Sunnyvale, he served as the Director of Finance in Elk Grove since 2021 and held leadership positions in San Joaquin County and Stockton. With a Bachelor of Arts from the University of the Pacific and a Master of Public Administration from CSU Stanislaus, Paulin brings both academic rigor and practical expertise to his new role. His enthusiasm for public service and commitment to the community promise a positive impact on Sunnyvale's financial health and overall development.