News

The City Council has appointed Lena Shumway as Newport Beach’s next City Clerk, effective October 20. Shumway will succeed Newport Beach’s longtime clerk Leilani Brown who retired in June.

Shumway brings more than 15 years of municipal government experience in administrative and city clerk roles. She currently serves as city clerk and director of administrative services for the City of Commerce, where she oversees council and commission support, administrative operations, public information and customer service functions.

Before joining the City of Commerce, Shumway held positions as assistant city clerk for the City of Lomita and city clerk and municipal court administrator for the City of Fernley, Nevada. She holds a master’s degree in political science with an emphasis on public administration and has earned the Master Municipal Clerk certification from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks.

Shumway’s appointment and employment agreement were approved by the City Council at its October 14 meeting.

“Lena brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the City Clerk’s Office,” said Mayor Joe Stapleton. “Her strong background in public service and commitment to transparency will continue the high standards of professionalism our residents expect.”

As clerk, Shumway will serve as the official recordkeeper for the City of Newport Beach, responsible for preparing and maintaining City Council agendas and minutes, managing municipal elections, maintaining official records and contracts, overseeing the City Clerk’s Office staff and administering oaths of office.

The City began a recruitment process several months ago, following Brown’s retirement announcement. The recruitment included multiple interview panels and final interviews with the City Council. Shumway emerged as the top candidate based on her extensive experience and proven leadership in local government administration, Stapleton said.