The City of Santee is looking for its next assistant city manager, an executive leadership role that will work closely with the city manager on council priorities, strategic initiatives, special projects and city service delivery.

According to the city's July 17 announcement, applicants are asked to email a cover letter, resume and six professional references to Human Resources and Risk Management Director Rida Freeman. The city said a formal city application is not required for the recruitment.

The position is open until filled, and the first review of applications is expected during the week of Aug. 17. The city is also directing interested candidates to a full recruitment brochure linked from its announcement.

For Santee residents, the hire matters because the assistant city manager helps turn policy direction into day-to-day execution across city projects and services. The recruitment comes as the city continues work on budget, infrastructure, public safety, recreation and long-term planning issues that show up directly in local quality of life.