Solana Beach Welcomes Alyssa M. Muto as New City Manager

The City of Solana Beach is delighted to announce the appointment of Alyssa M. Muto as its new City Manager, effective May 6, 2024. Muto brings with her an extensive background in sustainability, land use planning, mobility design, and community engagement. Combined with her proven skills in project management, team building and budgeting, Muto’s demonstrated experience and leadership perfectly suit her to this new role. 

Muto joins Solana Beach from the City of San Diego, where she served as the Director of the Sustainability & Mobility Department, overseeing a budget of over $32 million within multiple funds, and managing a team of 60 full time staff, as well as student interns and visiting fellows. In her position, she worked with Department Directors and participated in the administrative budget process and hearings to help prioritize and integrate sustainable programs, projects and practices into all aspects of City operations. During her tenure, she spearheaded initiatives to enhance sustainability, improve mobility, and foster community collaboration. Notably, Muto led the creation of a combined Sustainability & Mobility Department, oversaw the completion of the Climate Action Plan Update, and played a pivotal role in launching the Beach Bug circulator to connect the Mid-Coast Trolley Line to the beach and Mission Bay.  

"Alyssa Muto's proven track record of strategic leadership and commitment to community engagement make her the ideal choice to lead Solana Beach into its next chapter," said Mayor Lesa Heebner. "Her innovative approach to sustainability, mobility, and land use planning align perfectly with our city's beach town values and vision for the future." 

Prior to her role in San Diego, Muto held various leadership positions in environmental consulting, planning, and project management. She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in land use planning, regulatory reform, and regional collaboration. 

"I am honored to join the City of Solana Beach and work alongside its dedicated staff and community members," said Muto. "I look forward to building on Solana Beach's reputation as a vibrant, sustainable community and collaborating with stakeholders to address the city's most pressing challenges." 

A graduate of San Diego State University, Muto earned both a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.  She has been recognized for her contributions to urban planning and sustainability. She is actively involved in professional associations and has served as a guest lecturer at several universities.  

Muto’s connections to Solana Beach stretch back to childhood – she graduated from Torrey Pines High School, trained at North Coast Ballet and her first high school job was at a former local health club, Frogs Athletic Club.  Now she and her family reside in a beach community where they enjoy sand and water sports, running, and biking. 

Please join us in welcoming Alyssa M. Muto to the City of Solana Beach.