Janelle Samson

Janelle Samson joined the City of Palmdale as the Director of Finance in March 2022, bringing over 15 years of finance experience in private and public organizations. She is responsible for providing strategic financial leadership, expert advice, and guidance on all financial matters across the City. Her extensive leadership experience is augmented by a master’s degree in accountancy and an undergraduate degree in business and accounting. She also holds a graduate certificate in public financial management. Over the past four years, she led and created the $375 million annual budget for the City of Palmdale in collaboration with all departments, and she played a key role in City initiatives including CFD formation, the establishment of the state’s largest Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD), and the passing of a local sales tax measure. At an operational level, her team provides high-quality financial advice, along with robust financial processes that support staff in delivering the strategic initiatives of the City.