Santee Considers Appointing New City Manager
Published Monday, September 8, 2025
Santee City Council to Consider Appointment of Wendy Kaserman as New City Manager
The Santee City Council will consider appointing Wendy Kaserman as Santee’s next city manager at its September 10, 2025 meeting. The Council launched its search for a new city manager in June 2025, following a highly competitive nationwide recruitment. Her first day with the City of Santee is expected to be October 23, 2025, pending Council approval of her employment agreement.
Kaserman has more than 20 years of local government experience. She currently serves as assistant city manager for the City of Poway, where she works closely with the city manager to oversee a $125 million annual operating budget, a $101 million capital improvement budget, and 240 full-time equivalent positions.
During the recruitment and interview process, the City Council was impressed by Kaserman’s broad municipal experience, her track record of developing fiscally responsible budgets that prioritize residents and infrastructure, her efforts to modernize processes through technology, and her demonstrated commitment to public safety, customer service, ethics, and integrity.
“As we considered Santee’s future, it was clear that Wendy’s enthusiasm, expertise, and collaborative spirit made her the right choice to lead Santee into the future,” said Mayor John Minto. “She shares our commitment to strong community values and outstanding public service.”
Kaserman has served the City of Poway since 2016. During her tenure, she has held diverse leadership responsibilities across nearly every city department. She initially oversaw Human Resources and Risk Management, Finance, and Community Services. More recently, her portfolio included the City Clerk’s Office, the City’s contract with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement services, and the direction of the City’s economic development program.
“I am beyond excited to be joining an organization focused on good governance, effective use of city resources, and continuous improvement of the quality of life for residents,” said Kaserman. “I look forward to working with the community, city council, and staff to help Santee continue its tradition of providing excellent public service.”
Before her role in Poway, Kaserman served as the Assistant to the City Manager/Fiscal Services Manager for the City of San Marcos. She also worked for the Town of Queen Creek, Arizona, in both the Community Development Department and the Town Manager’s Office. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Arizona State University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Arizona.
The agenda report for the September 10 meeting is available online at Agendas & Minutes.
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