A Conversation with Local Government Icon: Maraskeshia Smith, City Manager, Santa Rosa, California

By Pamela Antil, City Manager, Encinitas, CA

This interview is the third in the League’s “Icons in Local Government” series. In this edition, the League caught up with Maraskeshia Smith, City Manager, Santa Rosa, California. In this article, Maraskeshia reflects on her career in public service, advice to her younger self, and Skittles and Popcorn…Wait, what?!

What are you most proud of achieving in your career or current position?

If I had to choose one thing, it would be becoming a city manager. Representation truly matters, and I’m living proof of that. I never knew this role was something I could aspire to, or that it even existed, until I met Milton Dohoney. Even then, I could never have imagined I would reach this goal. Now, understanding the barriers and challenges that exist, I want to extend that representation to all the women who have doubted themselves and believe they don’t deserve to be here. We do deserve to be here, and we belong in these spaces.

There have been lots of articles about the value of mentors, as well as advocates and sponsors in women’s careers. Who has been an advocate, mentor, or sponsor for you? How did they help you in your career?

I truly didn’t have a mentor until I was hired by Harry Black. I remember walking into his office, and he flat out said, “You are going to be the next director.” I was so overwhelmed, I literally wanted to quit that day. But that moment became a turning point. Harry challenged me, pushed me, and invested in my growth like no one had before. Before that, I had sponsors, which are invaluable for opening doors, but it wasn’t until I became Deputy City Manager that someone truly started investing in my career.

Looking back, there were many people I thought would invest in me, but they didn’t. I don’t take it personally; it taught me a valuable lesson—you have to reach out and create your own path to success. I even remember one individual reaching out later, asking, “Do you like being a city manager?” When I said yes and asked why, he replied, “You never expressed interest.” My response was, “You never asked.” It reminded me that advocating for yourself is just as important as the support you receive from others.

Now, as a city manager, I have the guidance of current and former city managers like Karen Pinkos and Pat Martel. Their experience is invaluable, and I know they genuinely care about the success of our cities. Because I didn’t always receive that level of assistance, it is now my mission to reach out to others and help them up the ladder, offering the guidance and support that wasn’t always extended to me. I want to make sure others know they don’t have to navigate this path alone.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

If I were to advise my younger self, I’d say: Failure is inevitable. Staying down is not. We often become so fixated on perfection that we overlook the valuable lessons failure teaches us and miss out on truly enjoying the journey. Embrace the setbacks—they’re part of the growth.

What is a book title that you recommend that everyone read and why?

If I were to recommend a book, professionally, I’d suggest Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek. It’s practical, easy to apply, and full of valuable insights. However, don’t feel pressured to constantly read the latest professional or self-help books. While they can be beneficial, they can also be overwhelming. Lately, I’ve been enjoying the Bridgerton series, and believe it or not, there are some great life lessons in those stories as well. Balance is key!

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