City of Cottonwood Announces City Manager Selection
COTTONWOOD, AZ – After an extensive search, the City of Cottonwood is proud to announce Mario Cifuentez, II has been selected as its new City Manager.
The City enlisted the Duffy Group to lead the recruitment in finding its next City Manager. 158 candidates were considered before the candidate pool was narrowed to three top finalists. Finalists had the opportunity to tour the community with Mayor Ann Shaw, introduce themselves to the public, meet with the City’s leadership team, and interview with the City Council throughout the process. After the competitive process, the City worked on negotiating a contract with its top candidate: Mario Cifuentez, II. The contract is scheduled for discussion and approval at the next City Council meeting, Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 at 6 pm.
Cifuentez has spent almost 40 years working in local government and is the current City Manager for the City of Hanford, California. In addition to his many years of direct experience working as a City Manager of a full- service City, he has a degree in Organizational Leadership and is scheduled to receive his ICMA credentialed manager distinction in May of 2026. Cifuentez has a passion for public service and is excited for the opportunity to lead the City of Cottonwood team and integrate himself into the community. Mario, and his wife Michelle, have a love for the Verde Valley and have been frequent visitors to the area. Of the opportunity, Cifuentez said “I am honored to be chosen to lead the City of Cottonwood organization, and I look forward to working with staff, residents and other community leaders to strengthen trust in our local government and move the City forward.” Cifuentez is expected to start with the City of Cottonwood on August 18, 2025.
The City of Cottonwood operates under the council-manager form of government. Cottonwood’s City Council serves as the community’s governing body, providing policy direction through the appointment of a City Manager and enacting ordinances and policies. The City Manager serves as the chief administrative officer and is responsible for the oversight of the City’s daily operations. The City Manager works collaboratively with key staff members to implement policies set forth by the City Council and provides organizational leadership for department directors and employees.
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