Civil War to City Hall

City management best practices come to life in this episode of Takis Talk with guest Franc Moufarrej, a leader whose story stretches from civil war in Lebanon to overseeing one of California’s most dynamic building divisions. Franc, now the Chief Building Official for the City of Livermore, shows how real-world adversity can shape calm, people-first leadership that influences every interaction at the counter, every tough decision, and every major project that moves through his division. His journey from bomb shelters to building permits illustrates how hardship, gratitude, and service can redefine what effective leadership looks like in local government.

City Management – Balance Empathy & Efficiency

If you care about city management best practices that balance empathy and efficiency, this conversation delivers a powerful blueprint. Franc recounts what it was like growing up on the front lines of conflict, where stepping outside could mean drawing sniper fire and even watering plants under the moonlight was dangerous. He explains how his family’s escape to the United States—made possible by an unexpected sponsorship from an aunt—opened the door to an entirely new life and ultimately a career dedicated to community building and public service.

You’ll hear how those early experiences gave him an unshakable appreciation for safety, stability, and opportunity, all of which now drive his commitment to serving residents, contractors, and business owners with empathy and patience. Franc shares his unconventional career path, from dreams of becoming an agricultural engineer to hands-on construction work and eventually leading Livermore’s building division. He talks about how a love of agriculture still lives on in his backyard garden and how those roots keep him grounded while he manages complex, high-stakes city projects.

The episode highlights city management best practices in action through the unique structure of Livermore’s building division. Franc explains how his team goes far beyond traditional plan review and inspections to handle neighborhood preservation, code enforcement, special events, block parties, street closures, addressing, community banners, and more. This broad portfolio keeps the work exciting and forces the team to stay adaptable as they juggle everything from housing and shelters to high-end retail buildouts and advanced technology facilities.

A Vibrant Community

You also get a ground-level look at the projects that define Livermore’s dynamic character: the San Francisco Premium Outlets (actually in Livermore) and designer retail spaces, national laboratories, hydrogen fuel hubs, and major manufacturers like Gillig and their support partners. Franc breaks down how these projects demand creativity and collaboration, often requiring his team to “use every page in the code book” and coordinate with multiple agencies and stakeholders. He highlights the value of early “advanced team” meetings, where divisions and partners sit at the same table to surface questions and streamline reviews before plans even formally arrive—a great example of scalable city management best practices you can apply in your own jurisdiction.

Management – Focus on Humility & Service

Throughout the conversation, Franc’s leadership philosophy centers on service, humility, and continuous learning. He talks openly about looking in the mirror, checking assumptions, and reaching out to neighboring jurisdictions to compare approaches and ensure Livermore stays on the right path. For city and county managers, building officials, planners, and public administrators, his approach offers a practical model for leading with both confidence and curiosity. ​

On the human side, the episode celebrates family, mentorship, and the joy of watching the next generation find their own paths. Greg and Franc discuss his children’s careers—from firefighting to forensic science and culinary arts—and how pride in family mirrors his pride in the community he serves. They also share stories from inspections at high-end retail stores, sci-fi-like research facilities, and the satisfaction of seeing a complex project finally open its doors to the public.

European Graffiti?

The conversation even explores graffiti, European travel, and how different cultures view street art, giving listeners a thoughtful contrast between enforcement, expression, and urban aesthetics. Franc reflects on why he believes there is a time and place for artistic talent, and why cities should look for ways to channel that creativity into spaces where it can be appreciated instead of penalized. It’s one more example of how thoughtful city management best practices can respect both rules and people.

Whether you’re a city or county leader, a building official, a planner, a code professional, or simply someone who cares about how communities are shaped, this episode offers rich insight into what it means to lead with heart in the public sector. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the people behind permits and policies, and for the lived experiences that inform how they serve.