Pacifica Taps Veteran Insider Sean Charpentier as New City Manager

Charpentier brings over 20 years of local government experience to the coastal city

Mar. 27, 2026 at 2:49am

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Pacifica's City Council has appointed Sean Charpentier as the city's new city manager after a nationwide search. Charpentier, who has over 20 years of local government experience, is expected to bring steady leadership to Pacifica as it tackles major infrastructure projects, long-term planning for sea level rise, and other key priorities.

Why it matters

As Pacifica's new city manager, Charpentier will be responsible for overseeing the city's operations and guiding it through several critical initiatives, including pier repairs, the Beach Boulevard infrastructure project, and long-term climate adaptation planning. His experience working in nearby cities and regional agencies will be valuable as he navigates Pacifica's complex challenges.

The details

Charpentier is slated to start as Pacifica's city manager on May 4, following a formal recruitment process. Before this appointment, he served as assistant and interim city manager in East Palo Alto and most recently worked as executive director of the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County. Pacifica brought in an executive search firm to run the city manager search and advertised the job in December, with a salary range in the low $300,000s.

  • Charpentier is set to start as Pacifica's city manager on May 4, 2026.
  • Longtime City Manager Kevin Woodhouse's retirement took effect on March 11, 2026.

The players

Sean Charpentier

Pacifica's new city manager, with over 20 years of local government experience, including roles in East Palo Alto and the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County.

Christine Boles

The mayor of Pacifica, who said Charpentier checked the council's boxes and brings familiarity with the city's environment, businesses, and arts community.

Kevin Woodhouse

The former Pacifica city manager, whose retirement took effect on March 11, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“A good city manager is very visible in the community and engaged.”

— Sean Charpentier

“Charpentier checked the council's boxes and brings familiarity with Pacifica's environment, businesses and arts community.”

— Christine Boles, Mayor

What’s next

Charpentier's official first day is May 4, and the council is expected to release the final employment contract and transition schedule in the coming weeks. Residents who want to meet the new city manager are encouraged to keep an eye on upcoming council agendas and city announcements for public events and meet-and-greets.

The takeaway

Pacifica's selection of Sean Charpentier, a veteran local government insider, signals the city's desire for steady leadership and experience as it tackles major infrastructure projects, long-term climate planning, and other key priorities. Charpentier's familiarity with the region and community-focused approach are expected to benefit Pacifica as it navigates these challenges.