The Sanford City Commission accepted City Manager Norton Bonaparte's notice of retirement effective October 14, 2026, following 15 years of service to the City.
Mayor Art Woodruff said Bonaparte had been a true asset to Sanford, leading the City through multiple issues including the tragedy of Trayvon Martin, the COVID pandemic, the revitalization of downtown Sanford and significant hurricane recoveries. Because of his leadership, Woodruff said, the City is well positioned to continue moving forward as a place where people want to live, work and play.
Assistant City Manager Craig Radzak has been appointed Interim City Manager effective October 15, 2026, to ensure continuity of leadership and City operations during the transition, and City services will continue without interruption. Additional information on the leadership transition and next steps will be discussed during a special City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, September 21, 2026, at 6PM at City Hall in the Railroad Depot Conference Room, 300 N. Park Avenue.
Press release issued by City of Sanford:
https://sanfordfl.gov/sanford-city-manager-norton-n-bonaparte-jr-retires/
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