El Centro Police Chief Named Acting City Manager Amid Ongoing Recruitm

EL CENTRO, Calif. (May 24, 2025) — The City of El Centro has appointed Police Chief Robert Sawyer as acting city manager, effective May 28, following the departure of Interim City Manager Daniel Paramo.

Chief Sawyer, a longtime public safety official and El Centro native, will assume the role while the city continues its search for a permanent city manager. A second round of recruitment began on May 23 and will remain open through June 23.

Paramo, who was brought on earlier this year under a professional services agreement, is stepping down due to post-retirement employment restrictions that limit his tenure to six months. He also declined to apply for the permanent 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’s public service career spans over 30 years and includes roles with the California Department of Corrections, City of El Centro, Imperial County, and Pioneers Memorial Healthcare District. He also previously served as mayor and councilmember for the City of Brawley.

“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 brings over 27 years of public safety experience. He began his law enforcement career with the El Centro Police Department, later serving as police chief for the City of Brawley before returning to El Centro in 2020 as deputy chief. He was named interim police chief in 2022 and officially took on the permanent role later that year.

Known for prioritizing community engagement and collaboration, Sawyer expressed his commitment to supporting the city through the leadership transition.

“I’m honored to serve in this capacity and support the city during this transition,” he 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 expressed its appreciation for Paramo’s contributions and reaffirmed its ongoing efforts to identify a permanent city manager.