The Santa Rosa City Council unanimously appointed Lori Ann Farrell as interim city manager effective Jan. 2, 2026, and approved her employment agreement.

Assistant City Manager Jason Nutt summarized Farrell’s background, saying she is a “local government and finance expert with 35 years of experience,” including service as city manager in Costa Mesa and senior management roles in Huntington Beach. The employment agreement sets an annual salary of $291,200 ($24,266.66 monthly), provides temporary housing assistance of $3,000 per month if she establishes housing in Sonoma or Marin County, and a $500 monthly auto allowance consistent with executive management benefits.

Why it matters: City Manager Smith has announced her resignation effective Jan. 2, 2026; the interim appointment provides executive continuity while the city conducts an open recruitment anticipated to take about six months.

Vote and next steps: Councilmember Alvarez moved to adopt the resolution appointing Farrell and to introduce an ordinance establishing her monthly salary; the motion passed unanimously. The city will begin an open recruitment in early 2026 for a permanent replacement.

Ending: Farrell’s appointment provides immediate leadership continuity; staff said the city will conduct a public search for a permanent city manager in 2026.