As the Mayor and City Commissioners serve on a part-time basis, they hire a full-time professional city manager who serves as the chief administrative officer (CAO) for the city government.  The City Manager’s duties and responsibilities consist of running the day-to-day operations of the city. This particular position is similar to that of a chief executive officer (CEO) in the private sector. However, instead of reporting to a Board of Directors, the City Manager reports to the elected body, the City Commission.

The City Manager is responsible for the administration and management of the budget, as well as all internal personnel matters, including hiring and/or removal of all city personnel.

In addition, the City Manager assists with developing and establishing community-wide goals and objectives  to ensure that the community’s best interest are always considered in the decision-making process. The City Manager also acts as a liaison to other municipalities as well as other local, state, and federal agencies.

The City Manager is a politically neutral position. It is also their duty and responsibility to be an advocate and a strong proponent for philanthropic and social services that provide an added benefit to the residents of Sanford. This includes, but is not limited to, the attendance at public functions and activities. The City Manager’s office is a community resource for all individuals who reside and conduct business within Sanford’s municipal boundaries.