Effective date is Friday, June 2, upon retirement of current City Manager, John Regan
On Monday, May 8, at their regularly scheduled meeting, the St. Augustine City Commission unanimously appointed David Birchim, Assistant City Manager, to replace John Regan, the city’s current City Manager, upon his planned retirement, effective Friday, June 2, 2023. Birchim was selected from three candidates to take the helm of the city’s municipal government, overseeing day-to-day operations, responsibility for almost 400 employees.
Birchim has 25 years of experience with the City of St. Augustine in professional urban planning and public administration, of which 20 years are in a supervisory position. He brings extensive knowledge of the City’s operations to this important role. Birchim’s understanding of all aspects of the city’s operations and initiatives, his commitment to excellence, and his precise leadership style, make him the Commission’s choice to fill this position. The commission is confident that his expertise and unwavering dedication will enable him to effectively manage the City’s resources, foster strong relationships with the community, and promote a positive and prosperous future for St. Augustine.
“I am honored to have been appointed as the new City Manager of St. Augustine,” said David Birchim. “In this role, I will continue to serve the community and ensure that the City of St. Augustine thrives and grows in a sustainable and equitable way, all while preserving history. I am excited to work with the City Commission and staff to ensure that St. Augustine remains a great, historical place, as well as a livable City today. I look forward to building on the City’s past successes and working collaboratively with the community to address the challenges ahead.”
Regan commented, “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as City Manager for the past 24-plus years, 13 of which I have been City Manager.” He continued, “I am confident that I leave the City in good hands with David at the helm. It has been a pleasure to work with David for so many years, and I look forward to seeing St. Augustine flourish under his leadership.”
Birchim holds a Master of Science Degree in Planning from the University of Tennessee. He is accredited by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and Florida Public Pension Trustee Association (FPPTA). He was promoted from Planning and Building Director to Assistant City Manager to specifically be responsible for overseeing special projects such as land development, affordable housing, legislative funding initiatives, and the resilient shoreline initiative.