The selection process to hire a new Assistant City Manager has reached its conclusion: April Mitts was selected as the next Assistant City Manager for the City of Healdsburg, following a nationwide recruitment. Mitts brings over 15 years of experience in local government to the table, most recently as Assistant City Manager in St. Helena, Napa County. She will fill the role formerly held by Andrew Sturmfels, who left in January.
Healdsburg City Manager Jeff Kay made the selection, saying she was picked over 70 qualified candidates. “April brings an outstanding combination of experience, technical expertise, and leadership to this position,” he said in the press release announcing the appointment. “I have been particularly impressed with her community-focused approach to public service, and I look forward to her making a very positive impact on the city and our organization.”
Mitts is scheduled to start her new position on April 28.
“I am honored and excited to join the City of Healdsburg as Assistant City Manager and to work alongside city leadership, staff, and the community to enhance the quality of life for residents,” said Mitts. “I look forward to contributing to the city’s progress, innovation, and dedication to outstanding public service.”
Mitts’s resignation from the City of St. Helena was announced on March 27, the same day as her hiring by Healdsburg. “Her leadership in financial management, administrative services, and City operations has been exemplary, earning her the respect and admiration of colleagues and community members alike,” read the announcement from St. Helena’s Program Manager, Andrew Bradley.
“Dr. Mitts’ strategic thinking, can-do attitude, and unmatched work ethic have greatly benefited our community,” said St. Helena Mayor Paul Dohring. “She has been a key player in many of our initiatives, and her departure is a significant loss for St. Helena.”
Mitts holds a Doctorate in Public Administration from the University of La Verne, a Masters in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix and a B.A. in Political Science from California State Polytechnic University in Pomona. She is a member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), Women Leading Government (WLG) and the California City Management Foundation (CCMF).
Andrew Sturmfels served in the Assistant City Manager role for almost three years, assuming the job in June 2022. He departed in January to join the County of Sonoma staff as an Assistant County Administrator.
