Overview
The City Manager manages the day-to-day operations of the City. Acts as an advisor to the City Council on fiscal and City matters. The City Council sets policy, while the City Manager implements that policy. The Manager works as a facilitator, coordinator and catalyst, developing good working relationships and counting on and seeking out the support of the experts - City department directors, City staff, and the community.

Xenia has 15 years of experience specializing in a broad range of services within government and private sector industries – executive leadership and technical expertise. 

Education:

• Master of Public Policy, International Relations, Local and Regional Governments, Pepperdine University
• Juris Doctorate, Law, Santa Barbara College of Law 
• Master’s Degree, Economics, University of California, Santa Barbara
• Bachelor’s Degree, Business, Economics, and Accounting, University of California, Santa Barbara
• Executive Seminar Certificate, Strategic Management of Public Organizations, University of California, Berkeley
• Leadership San Luis Obispo, Class XVI 

Employment:

• City Manager & City Clerk, City of Solvang 
• Acting City Manager, City of Solvang 
• Administrative Services Director, City of Solvang 
• Finance Consultant, City of Solvang 
• Speaker, Government Finance Officers Association 
• Finance Director & City Treasurer, City of San Luis Obispo 
• Budget Manager, City of San Luis Obispo 
• Director of Finance & Administration, Maps.com
• Enterprise Leader, County of Santa Barbara, Office of the County Executive 
• Controller, FMS Productions

Professional Associations:

• International City Management Association
• Government Finance Officers’ Association

Message from the City Manager:

As the City Manager of Solvang I welcome you to our website. Solvang is often referred to as Danish Capital of America. It was established in 1911 by small group of Danish teachers and is part of the Santa Ynez Valley. Solvang (meaning sunny field) is rich in Danish history and culture, which can be viewed at the Elverhoj Museum. The City of Solvang is a relatively young city having incorporated on May 1,1985. But the town has a long history as a beautiful place to live and visit. City of Solvang transitioned from General Law City to a Charter City in 2006.

Solvang reflects a thoughtful blend of history and culture. The City’s economy largely depends on tourism, and the Danish village has much to offer. Major attractions for visitors include the City’s Danish-themed village with unique shops, inns, bakeries, European style streets and architecture, cafés, local wineries, art galleries, golf courses, equestrian and other livestock production, the Santa Ines Mission, The Wildling Museum, and the Elverhoj Museum of History and Art. There is always something fun to do in Solvang! For wine enthusiasts, wine tasting events abound throughout the year. The City offers eighteen wine tasting rooms, along with the more than 120 wineries throughout the Santa Ynez Valley. Solvang has an up and coming craft beer scene as well with many popular local brews. Foodies can enjoy an incredible variety of flavors and International cuisine offered in Solvang’s restaurants or take a sweet stroll along Solvang’s Sweet Treats Trail. The City also hosts annual events including the Danish Days in September, and Julefest in December.

There are currently 25 full-time employees working for the City of Solvang that strive to bring the best to the area's residents, tourists and businesses. The City’s operations include Administrative functions, Community Development, Public Works,  and Water & Wastewater services. The City of Solvang law enforcement services are provided by contract with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department and Fire services through Santa Barbara County Fire Department funded by fire district.

If you are planning to visit the area you will find excellent information on the SolvangUSA.com website.