LINCOLN CITY, Ore. — Lincoln City is on the hunt for a new city manager to steer its operations, less than three months after dismissing its interim leader and following a series of high-profile departures in recent years.

The City Council announced the opening last month, seeking candidates with strong public sector experience to manage a $105.7 million budget and oversee about 160 full-time employees in a town that swells from 10,000 permanent residents to over 30,000 in summer. The position offers a salary range of $140,000 to $180,000, plus benefits and temporary housing assistance.

Under the city’s council-manager form of government, the city manager serves as the chief administrative and budget officer, directing department heads and advising the six-member council and mayor on policy. Responsibilities include attending all council meetings, leading strategic planning and participating in land deals, community events and intergovernmental partnerships — particularly with local tribes like the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.

Candidates need at least a bachelor’s degree in public administration or a related field, plus five years of senior management experience, preferably in Oregon municipalities. A master’s degree and familiarity with coastal land-use planning, budgeting and labor relations are ideal, according to the recruitment brochure.

The city, incorporated in 1965 and stretching along 7 miles of Pacific shoreline, grapples with tourism-driven booms and busts. Its economy hinges on 4,500 hotel rooms, vacation rentals, a casino and an outlet mall along Highway 101, but faces housing shortages exacerbated by short-term rentals and limited non-tourism jobs. The new manager will help revise the city’s master plan, update development charges and potentially shepherd Charter amendments in the 2026 election.

Lincoln City’s leadership post has seen flux lately. Daphnee Legarza, who took over in April 2022 after 26 years in city and state management, resigned in June 2025 to care for family. During her tenure, she oversaw the completion of the Lincoln City Comprehensive Plan 2043, which is a blueprint for the city’s development over 20 years.

The council then tapped David Benson, a Tillamook resident with over 30 years in local government, as interim manager in May 2025. But on July 15, the council voted to end his contract without cause, prompting the current search.

Before Legarza, Ron Chandler served from 2015 to March 2021, when he departed for a role in Silverton. He succeeded David Hawker, a fixture for 15 years until his 2015 retirement.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 10, though the post will remain open until filled. Interested parties should submit a resume and cover letter via the city’s online portal. For questions, contact recruiter Jennifer Stapleton at 541-373-0582 or city HR Director Abigail Edwards at 541-996-1201.