City Manager Leadership Award for November goes to 30-year city employee Anna Baca

City Manager Cecilia Gallardo-Daly presented the City Manager Leadership Award for November to Public Works Senior Management Analyst Anna Baca, who began her career in Costa Mesa in the Finance Department in 1996.

“With her vast institutional knowledge, strong analytical skills, and solution-oriented approach, Anna consistently finds ways to address challenges and ensure that issues are resolved efficiently,” Gallardo-Daly said. “She exemplifies outstanding customer service, teamwork and leadership, making her truly deserving of this Leadership Award. Congratulations Anna.”

Baca, who has a bachelor’s degree in finance, served in various roles in the Finance Department, including Acting Budget Manager and Acting Finance Manager and lastly serving as the Revenue Supervisor.

Throughout her time in Finance, she worked closely with various departments, earning a reputation for being responsive, knowledgeable and collaborative.

Then in 2024, Baca transitioned to Public Works as the Senior Management Analyst where she has continued to contribute at a high level. She is an invaluable member of the Public Works team, providing essential support to all four divisions on a daily basis.

While staff can count on her to help with numerous budget-related items, she also contributes on various agenda reports, presentations, social media materials, special events and complex special projects.

She is a great resource for other analysts throughout the City and is always ready to assist as needed. Annually, she plays a pivotal role in coordinating and collaborating with City departments to prepare the Capital Improvement Program Budget.

Her recent involvement with the City’s new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system implementation is a prime example of her contributions to City initiatives.

According to Anna Acosta Reyes, “Anna Baca has been a key contributor to the Finance Department’s ERP implementation, providing valuable expertise and serving as a lead tester for multiple functions with the City’s new ERP system. Her dedication, patience, and strong work ethic have been instrumental to the project’s success.”

Outside of work, Anna enjoys exploring new restaurants, going on weekly Costco and Trader Joe’s runs, attending various fitness dance classes, and most importantly, spending time with her family.

This December, she will celebrate an impressive milestone of 30 years of service to the City, a testament to her longstanding commitment to the organization.