A meet-and-greet with the new man in charge

Despite the frigid conditions on Tuesday evening, Jack Schnirman, Long Beach’s new city manager, was all smiles and in good spirits as he stood inside the waiting area at the Long Island Rail Road station.

With every incoming train, Schnirman left the comfortable waiting space and braved the cold to stand near the train platform and greet each resident who stepped off the train.

“Welcome aboard!” shouted one resident as he made his way passed Schnirman, who was joined by City Councilman Mike Fagen, Council President Fran Adelson and Vice President Len Torres. Others waved and said hello, while some shook hands with Schnirman, and exchanged quick words of welcome and congratulations.

Schnirman’s meeting with commuters was not only an opportunity for him to introduce himself, but also to gauge the concerns of residents as he, along with a new administration, face many challenges this year, mainly the city’s finances.

During the meet-and-greet, officials passed around a handout to residents, entitled, “Long Beach Listens: Constituent Intake Form,” which focused on resident concerns in the community. The document, an idea spearheaded by Schnirman and Adelson, included several questions, ranging from what concerns residents have about local government, to what their hopes are for the future to what suggestions they have for officials. A section was also available for residents to provide their email contact to receive city updates and information.

“On the first day, we want to set a tone — we will be accountable to residents,” Schnirman said inside the station. “We want to know what’s on people’s minds. This is about empowering residents.”

Some who spoke briefly with the city manager described him as an individual recognizable for his youth, energy and his pleasant demeanor.

“I was excited to see him and to meet him,” said Long Beach resident Michael Tambone. “What I read about him, his education, I feel like it’s a strong indicator of someone who has a strong moral compass and financial awareness to bring our city back to where it needs to be.”

Tambone said that he felt Schnirman’s presence echoed the new administration’s promise of openness and transparency in local government.