EL CENTRO, Calif. – May 24, 2025 – The City of El Centro announced Friday that Police Chief Robert Sawyer will serve as acting city manager following the departure of Interim City Manager Daniel Paramo on May 28.
Chief Sawyer will assume the role while the city continues its search for a permanent city manager. A second round of applications opened May 23 and will remain open through June 23.
Paramo was appointed interim city manager earlier this year under a professional services agreement while the city conducted its initial recruitment. His tenure was limited by post-retirement employment restrictions, which prevent retirees from working in the role for more than six months. Paramo also chose not to pursue the permanent city manager position.
“We appreciate Mr. Paramo’s leadership and dedication during this transitional period,” said Mayor Sonia Carter. “His experience helped maintain continuity and stability across city operations.”
Paramo brought more than 30 years of public sector experience to the role, including time with the State of California Department of Corrections and prior service with the City of El Centro and Imperial County. He also previously served as mayor and councilmember for the City of Brawley and as president of the Pioneers Memorial Healthcare District Board of Directors.
“It has been an honor to serve the City of El Centro during this time of transition,” Paramo said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with the dedicated staff, elected officials, and community members who are committed to the city’s continued success.”
Chief Sawyer, an El Centro native, has more than 27 years of experience in public safety and began his law enforcement career with the El Centro Police Department. He served as police chief for the City of Brawley before returning to El Centro as deputy chief in 2020 and was later appointed interim police chief in 2022. In November 2022, he was officially appointed as El Centro’s police chief. His leadership emphasizes community engagement and collaboration, with a focus on empowering teams and
strengthening public trust.
“I’m honored to serve in this capacity and support the city during this transition,” Sawyer said. “I look forward to working with our dedicated city staff, council, and community to maintain momentum on key initiatives and ensure continued delivery of services.”
The City of El Centro thanks Mr. Paramo for his service.
