Longtime Sanford City Manager Retires Months Before New Mayor Arrives

SANFORD, Fla. – The City of Sanford is preparing to search for a new city manager following the resignation of its current top administrator this week.

Norton Bonaparte Jr. announced Monday that he will retire effective Oct. 14.

Bonaparte has led Sanford’s municipal administration for 15 years. Under the city’s council-manager system of government, the city manager directs day-to-day operations and oversees the city budget.

The mayor and Sanford City Commission are responsible for establishing policies and passing ordinances.

“Norton Bonaparte has been a true asset to the City of Sanford, leading the City through multiple issues including the tragedy of Trayvon Martin, the historic COVID pandemic, the revitalization of downtown Sanford, and significant hurricane recoveries. Because of his leadership, the City is well positioned to continue to move forward as a place where people want to live, work, and play,” Sanford Mayor Art Woodruff said in a news release.

Assistant City Manager Craig Radzak will take over as interim city manager beginning Oct. 15, according to the city.

READ MORE: Fact Check: Is TD Jakes Arrested By Feds? Mugshot And Charges – NewsFinale

The Sanford City Commission is set to address the process for selecting a permanent city manager during a special meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at City Hall.

Bonaparte’s retirement also arrives just months before Sanford installs a new mayor.

Businesswoman Christina Hollerbach won Sanford’s mayoral election in August and is expected to take office in December.

More Stories Like This In Our Email Newsletter