Sacramento Council Set to Confirm New City Manager
Sacramento is preparing for a major leadership shift as Maraskeshia Smith is expected to be appointed city manager. If approved, she will serve as the first Black woman in this influential position, overseeing nearly 5,000 city employees.
The City Council will vote on her appointment in a closed session meeting. City Hall officials have not confirmed the choice, but multiple reports point to Smith as the frontrunner. A spokesperson for Mayor Kevin McCarty stated, “There’s no way to comment ahead of the City Council’s vote.”
Maraskeshia Smith’s Leadership in Santa Rosa
Smith currently serves as Santa Rosa’s city manager, a role she has held since November 2021. She was the first Black person to hold that position and guided the city through key issues, including economic development and public services.
Before her time in Santa Rosa, Smith held senior leadership roles in Stockton and Oakland. In Oakland, she focused on pressing issues such as homelessness, affordable housing, and economic recovery. These experiences built her reputation as a problem-solver and community-focused leader.
Sacramento’s Search for a New City Manager
Sacramento began its nationwide search for a city manager after deciding not to extend the contract of Howard Chan in December 2024. Chan had faced criticism over his high salary, which totaled more than $789,000 last year.
CPS HR Consulting was hired to lead the search, gathering input from council members and the public. After weeks of interviews with finalists, Smith emerged as the top choice. Interim city manager Leyne Milstein, the first woman to hold the job, has led the city since January and is expected to return to her assistant city manager role.
The Weight of the Role in Sacramento
The position of city manager is one of the most influential jobs at City Hall. The manager oversees daily operations, manages city staff, and works closely with elected leaders to guide policies and budgets.
Councilmember Roger Dickinson acknowledged the buzz surrounding Smith but held back from commenting in detail. “I’m aware that this has been released — leaked — by somebody,” he said. “I think, though, I’m gonna withhold comment at this stage.”
A Trailblazing Career in Public Service
Throughout her career, Smith has been known for advancing equity and tackling complex urban challenges. Her leadership in multiple California cities demonstrates her ability to adapt and deliver results in diverse communities.
If appointed, she will take on a city still navigating growth, housing shortages, and public safety concerns. Her leadership is expected to bring both continuity and fresh vision to Sacramento’s government.
