drought, water, waste water and ….
drought, water, waste water and storm water management; organic waste disposal and COVID- 19 pandemic recovery. She worked on scores of committees and boards, including OC Sanitation District, the West Orange County Water Board and OC Vector Control.
When she retired from public service in 2023, the Seal Beach City Council honored her for keeping the channel between Seal Beach and Leisure World solid and secure to help residents thrive in their retirement years.
Then-Mayor Thomas Moore praised Massa-Lavitt for a collaboration that led to Seal Beach police starting a traffic enforcement program in Leisure World. They also pushed to re-establish free shuttle service to the Seal Beach Pier area.
This week, City Manager Patrick Gallegos said Massa-Lavitt will be remembered for “her thoughtful leadership, steady presence and deep understanding of local government. Throughout her tenure, Sandra was known as a strong advocate for her community while always keeping the broader interests of the City in focus,” he said.
“On a personal note, I had the privilege of working alongside Sandra for much of my time in Seal Beach,” he continued. “She was dedicated, principled, and genuinely cared about both the community and the staff. Her guidance and presence will be deeply missed.”
The May 11 Seal Beach City Council meeting was adjourned in her honor.
She is survived by her husband Shefron Lavitt, son Joseph Lavitt (Michele), daughter Stefani Lavitt (Steve), adopted son Daryl King, sisters Vicki Firestone (Richard) and Betsy Johnson, two granddaughters, three nephews, four greatgrandchildren, two great nieces and a great nephew. There will be no services at her request.
Sandra Massa-Lavitt (center) was honored by the Seal Beach City Council on Feb. 27, 2023, for her years of dedicated public service. She represented District 5, which encompasses Mutuals 2-9 and half of Mutual 1. Pictured are former mayor Thomas Moore (l-r), former council member Mike Varipapa, former city manager Jill Ingram, and former council members Joe Kalmick and Schelly Sustarsic.
Ruth Osborn
