Sonoma City-Haller Leaving For SoCo Exec Job

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors has selected longtime North Bay administrator David Guhin as the county’s next executive, tapping the current Sonoma city manager to lead the county’s 4,000-employee organization.

Guhin brings more than two decades of government leadership experience in the region, according to a statement announcing the move. He currently serves as city manager for the City of Sonoma and previously spent more than 18 years with the City of Santa Rosa, where he held roles including director of Santa Rosa Water, director of planning and economic development, and assistant city manager.

He also served as executive director of government operations for the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, according to the announcement. “David Guhin is a proven leader with deep roots in Sonoma County and a clear understanding of the complex challenges facing our communities,” Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, chairwoman of the Board of Supervisors, said in a statement. She said the board is confident that Guhin’s collaborative leadership style and commitment to public service will serve the county well.

As county executive, Guhin will act as the county’s chief administrative officer, responsible for implementing board policy, overseeing departments and operations, managing the budget, and advancing strategic priorities. “I’m honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve Sonoma County,” Guhin said in the statement, adding that he looks forward to working with county employees and community partners to deliver essential services and support a “healthy, resilient, and inclusive county.”

Guhin holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and a master’s degree in organizational development from Sonoma State University.

He will begin his new role on April 20 with an annual base salary of $377,226.

Sonoma Mayor Ron Wellander thanked Guhin in a statement.

“While we are saddened to see David Guhin leave the City of Sonoma, we are grateful for his significant contribution to our town," Wellander said. "In just three years, David has made a lasting and meaningful impact on our community as our City Manager. We know the County will benefit greatly from his leadership, integrity, and collaborative approach."

Sonoma has launched the search for a new city manager and officials will announce next steps.

Wellander said Sonoma is a special place that will attract strong candidates who will build on the "solid foundation" Guhin helped create. "On behalf of the City Council and the entire Sonoma Community, I want to thank David for his three years of dedicated service and wish him success in his next chapter.”

Guhin could not be reached immediately for comment.