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APPOINTMENT OF CITY MANAGER
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution:
1. Appointing Johnny R. Ford as the City Manager for the City of Stockton; and
2. Authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City Council, to execute an employment contract with Johnny R. Ford setting forth the conditions of employment.
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DISCUSSION
Background
On January 9, 2025, Harry Eugene Black resigned from the City of Stockton as City Manager. The same day the City Council appointed William Crew as Acting City Manager.
On February 4, 2025, the City Council appointed Steve Colangelo as Interim City Manager until either a permanent city manager was appointed, the contract expired, or the contract was terminated by either party. On August 9, 2025, Mr. Colangelo’s contract expired. Effective August 11, 2025, the City Council appointed Will Crew as Acting City Manager.
On October 16, 2025, and November 4, 2025, the City Council met in Closed Session and deliberated regarding the appointment of Johnny R. Ford as City Manager and directed the City Attorney to make an offer and negotiate an employment contract.
Present Situation
An employment contract with Johnny R. Ford to serve as City Manager is now presented for Council consideration and approval (Exhibit 1 to the Resolution).
CONCLUSION
Council is asked to review and consider the appointment of Johnny R. Ford as City Manager subject to the terms and conditions of the employment contract.