News Summary
Huntington Beach City Council has unanimously appointed Jason Schmitt as the new city treasurer, marking a significant leadership change. Schmitt, the third treasurer in nearly three decades, aims to enhance transparency and trust in the city’s financial decisions. With a law degree from Harvard and extensive corporate experience, he steps into the role as the city faces financial challenges, including forecasted budget deficits. Residents are hopeful that Schmitt’s leadership will bring fiscal stability and involve community engagement in the decision-making process.
Huntington Beach Welcomes New City Treasurer Jason Schmitt
Exciting news is buzzing through the vibrant coastal city of Huntington Beach as the City Council has unanimously appointed Jason Schmitt as the new city treasurer. This marks a significant transition for the city, as he becomes the third treasurer in nearly three decades. With so many eyes on the city’s financial future, Schmitt’s appointment is generating conversations among residents eager to learn what this means for Huntington Beach’s budget and tax strategy.
The Appointment
The City Council made the decision during a meeting on a Tuesday night, celebrating the arrival of Schmitt with a formal swearing-in ceremony conducted by Orange County Supervisor Janet Nguyen. Schmitt, who is 48 years old, is quite vocal about his belief in the American Dream. He is looking to ensure that the residents of Huntington Beach can trust their city’s financial decisions, promoting transparency in tax collection and a careful approach to investments.
Background and Experience
Stepping into his new role, Schmitt takes over from Alisa Backstrom, who had been serving as city treasurer since 2011 and recently announced her plans to step down effective July 1, 2023. Backstrom previously won re-election in 2024, raising some eyebrows with her sudden resignation announcement. Before Backstrom, the treasurer position was held by Shari Freidenrich, who served from 1996 to 2010 and has since become the Orange County treasurer-tax collector.
Schmitt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. He holds a law degree from Harvard University and an MBA from Pacific College. Prior to making the move to Orange County about a year ago from Tennessee, he was the CEO of Old Time Pottery, a popular home decor retailer. His career also spans experience with Fortune 500 companies like Walmart, Amazon, Gap, and Mattel, preparing him well for the financial intricacies he’ll be managing as treasurer.
Financial Challenges Ahead
Huntington Beach is currently facing some financial hurdles with forecasted budget deficits looming in future years. However, the city has managed to create a balanced budget for 2025-26 using reserves, showing some financial stability as Schmitt steps in. His approach will be all about gathering information and listening to both city staff and residents to make informed decisions about safeguarding taxpayer dollars.
Community Engagement
In recognition of his role, Schmitt was recommended for the treasurer position by an ad hoc committee comprised of Mayor Pat Burns, Councilmembers Gracey Van Der Mark, and Butch Twining. Interestingly, during recent public comments, it was shared that Schmitt had contributed $249 to the campaigns of Twining, Don Kennedy, and Chad Williams in the 2024 elections. Schmitt has stated that he has a history of supporting both Republican and Democratic candidates across various municipalities in an effort to promote good governance.
A Personal Touch
After his appointment, a playful note emerged when Schmitt referenced a 1984 political ad by Ronald Reagan, illustrating his aspirations for his role. In his personal life, Schmitt is joined by his husband, Michael, and the couple lives with their 85-pound English cream golden retriever named Reagan, adding a warm touch to the new treasurer’s story.
Looking Ahead
As Schmitt begins his tenure, residents are optimistic about his plans for the city’s financial future. With a promise of transparency, prudence, and a keen ear for public input, Huntington Beach is ready to embrace this new chapter under Jason Schmitt’s leadership.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach Welcomes New City Treasurer Jason Schmitt
- Orange County Register: Elected Officials Compensation
- LAist: Workplace Violence Investigation in Orange County
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Huntington Beach
- Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach City Council Election Results
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
