ST. HELENA, CA – After more than a decade of service to the city of St. Helena, Assistant City Manager April Mitts is set to leave her position for a similar role in Healdsburg. The city of St. Helena made the announcement on Thursday, praising Mitts for her contributions and dedication throughout her tenure.
Mitts, who joined St. Helena in 2014 as finance director, quickly became an essential member of the city’s leadership team. She advanced to administrative services director in June 2021, and just one year later, she was appointed assistant city manager. In her new role, she was instrumental in overseeing numerous key projects and initiatives that helped enhance the quality of life for St. Helena’s residents and ensure the success of city staff.
According to city officials, Mitts played a crucial role in financial management, administrative services, and city operations during her time with the city. Her leadership was described as exemplary, earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues, residents, and the broader community.
St. Helena Mayor Paul Dohring expressed his appreciation for Mitts’ work, calling her departure a significant loss for the city. “Dr. Mitts’ strategic thinking, can-do attitude, and unmatched work ethic have greatly benefited our community,” said Dohring. “She has been a key player in many of our initiatives, and her departure is a significant loss for St. Helena. Having worked with April for over 10 years, I know first-hand that she has been an invaluable member of our City’s leadership team. On behalf of our community, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to April for her many years of dedicated, loyal service to our City and wish her success in her new position.”
City Manager Anil Comelo echoed the sentiment, highlighting Mitts’ importance in the city’s operations. “Her leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact, and while we are sad to see her go, we wish her all the best in her new role,” said Comelo. “Her ability to navigate the complexities of local government, collaborate with the community, and drive positive change has been invaluable, and she will be greatly missed.”
Mitts’ resignation from St. Helena will take effect on April 23. In her statement, Mitts reflected on her time with the city, expressing gratitude for the opportunities she’s had over the years. “It has been an honor to serve the residents and staff of the City of St. Helena for over a decade,” Mitts said. “I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have had here, and I look forward to bringing my knowledge and passion to the City of Healdsburg. I will always cherish my time in City of St. Helena and the relationships I have built. The support and collaboration from my colleagues and the many residents I have worked with informally and on various committees has been invaluable. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I look forward to continuing to visit St. Helena, walking along Main Street, and enjoying some of my favorite shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms.”
Mitts’ departure marks the end of a significant chapter for St. Helena, but her legacy in local government leadership is expected to continue to influence the city’s operations for years to come.