Southard joins City staff as public information officer

Press release from the City of Menifee:

MENIFEE -- The City of Menifee is pleased to announce the appointment of Philip Southard as the City’s public information and legislative affairs officer. In this role, Southard will serve as the City’s spokesperson and will oversee all communication and community engagement activities. He will also direct legislative advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels and analyze the impacts of legislation in relation to the City's interests.

Southard brings nearly 20 years of community, government, and media relations experience to Menifee. Over the last decade, he has helped develop and implement public education and outreach programs for local government agencies, public utilities, and Fortune 500 companies throughout the Inland Empire and Southern California. Southard also previously served as the Public Information Officer for the City of Banning.

“We are very excited to have someone with Philip’s extensive background join our team here in Menifee,” said Menifee City Manager Armando G. Villa. “His wealth of experience will be an asset to the City as we look to further enhance our community engagement and overall transparency.”

In addition to his local experience, Southard served in Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s administration, where he managed the Governor’s educational and environmental appointments to state boards and commissions. He also served in Governor Schwarzenegger’s constituent affairs and cabinet offices. Previously, Southard was a legislative aide to Senator Jim Brulte in Sacramento.

“I look forward to working with the Menifee community and am eager to get started,” said Southard. “Menifee has built a strong quality of life for its residents and businesses, and I am proud to join such a talented City staff focused on continuing that success.”

Southard will officially begin his new position on Jan. 3.