St. Helena asks residents what they want in the next city manager

The St. Helena City Council has launched a community survey to gather input on the desired qualities for the city’s next City Manager, a move aimed at ensuring the new leader aligns with the community’s values and vision. This initiative, which opened this week, is part of a broader effort to engage residents in the selection process for the key leadership role in the heart of Napa Valley. The council’s decision underscores a commitment to transparency and community involvement, as residents are encouraged to share their perspectives on the leadership attributes they believe are essential for the city’s future.

The feedback from the survey will play a crucial role in shaping the criteria for the next City Manager, ensuring that the chosen individual will effectively represent and serve the community’s interests. This engagement is particularly significant for St. Helena, a city known for its rich history of community involvement and collaborative governance. The current City Manager has been instrumental in fostering this collaborative environment, and the council now seeks input to identify the right candidate to lead St. Helena into the future, balancing continuity with innovation.

St. Helena has a long-standing tradition of involving its residents in civic decisions, a practice that has been integral to the city’s governance. The City Council recognizes the importance of maintaining this collaborative approach as they prepare to select a new City Manager. The current City Manager has served the community for several years, and the council aims to ensure that the next leader will uphold the same level of community engagement and effective leadership. This initiative reflects the council’s dedication to upholding the city’s values and ensuring that the next City Manager will be a strong advocate for the community.

Residents can participate in the survey, which is available on the City of St. Helena’s official website, City Manager Recruitment Community Survey. The online survey is designed to be completed in less than five minutes and will remain open until October 11, 2026. This timeline provides ample opportunity for a wide range of community members to contribute their thoughts and preferences, ensuring that the selection process is inclusive and representative of the community’s diverse perspectives.

Following the survey period, the City Council will review the collected feedback and use it to refine the selection criteria for the next City Manager. The council will then proceed with the recruitment process, which may include interviews and public forums to ensure that the community’s voice is heard throughout the decision-making process. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged by visiting the city’s website for updates and further information on how to participate in the ongoing selection process. This transparent approach aims to foster trust and ensure that the community’s vision for its future is realized through the selection of the next City Manager.