Nicoll leaving City Hall - Management Services Director moves on after 24 years in Burbank. Sarquiz named replacement
By Scott Roby

After two decades with the city, Management Services Director John Nicoll is moving on.

Nicoll is leaving next month to become chief deputy executive offer for Ventura County, where he will be responsible for labor relations and risk management.

"It is an opportunity to expand my career. I get to focus specifically on something I enjoy, the labor relations aspect of government relations." - John Nicoll

Nicoll, who has been Burbank's director of management services since 1988, oversees the department's administration, employee relations and risk management divisions.

Hired as a budget analyst by the city in 1976, Nicoll has worked in six different departments and had seven titles. In 1982, Nicoll went into private business but returned in 1985 to be the city's budget manager.

"John Nicoll has done a terrific job for the city", City Manager Mary Alvord said in a prepared statement. "He has guided the administrative arm of city government through good times and lean times. His knowledge and experience will be truly missed."

Nicoll, whose last day with the City is August 15, will be replaced by Judie Sarquiz, Burbank's Deputy Financial Services Director.

Sarquiz, a former city clerk, resigned that post in November 2001 to become the City's Deputy Financial Services Director. Since then she has managed the department's budget and purchasing sections and overseen preparation of the budget.

"I think that my experience will be beneficial because I've had the opportunity to see the big picture," Sarquiz, 34 said. "I can bring that knowledge into labor negotiations."

Sarquiz, who began her career with the City in 1988 as a management intern, worked for Nicoll at one point, and says she will greatly missed.[sic]

"He's a bright man, and he's been a great asset," she said. "Burbank's loss is Ventura County's gain."

Both Alvord and Nicoll said Sarquiz' experience in city government will serve her well in her new position.

"Judie (possesses) good management skills and good analytical skills," Nicoll said. "She has credibility with the employees. She's an excellent choice."

Said Alvord: "I'm confident that this area of city management is in very capable hands."

Nicoll, who accepted the position Monday, will start his new job August 21. He said he will be paid about $130,000 annually, a raise of about $9,000.