Maraskeshia Smith becomes Sacramento’s new city manager on Monday, overseeing roughly 6,000 employees and a $1.6 billion budget. She comes from Santa Rosa, where she served as city manager since January 2022, and is the first Black woman to hold the post. She steps in as the city grapples with homelessness, revenue shortfalls, and staffing gaps.
New Boss at City Hall Steps In After Long Search
Smith was introduced at a recent public event and will officially take over on Monday. Her appointment follows a months-long national search by the City Council, ABC10 reports. City officials have already outlined early priorities for her in the role.
Three-Year Deal and a Massive Portfolio
The City Council approved a three-year contract for Smith with a $399,000 annual salary, allowances, and a $50,000 relocation payment, CapRadio reports. The deal includes management leave and severance if she’s terminated without cause. She will oversee all city departments, from public safety and public works to housing.
From Santa Rosa Hallways to Sacramento Hot Seat
Smith departs Santa Rosa, where she has served as city manager since January 2022. The city said her final day there was January 2. In a news release, Santa Rosa officials credited her with advancing affordable housing projects, infrastructure work and regional partnerships during her tenure. Smith has told reporters she plans to “break down silos and build bridges” across departments as she embeds in Sacramento’s bureaucracy, a statement reported by KCRA.
Early Listening Tour and a Careful Handoff
Leyne Milstein, who has served as interim city manager since January 2025, will remain in a leadership role to help guide the transition, according to local coverage. KCRA reported that Smith intends to spend her first weeks holding listening sessions with city staff, community leaders, and business groups. Officials say those conversations will help shape how the administration approaches homelessness, staffing needs, and major capital projects in the coming year…