By Rachel Galvin
Deerfield Beach City Manager David Santucci has announced his resignation. It will take effect October 1, 2024.
Santucci has been working for the city for 13 years, 5 1/2 of those years were as City Manager. Through his years of service, he has seen plenty of changes. Now, he will take those experiences and move to his next position with a whole new perspective.
He will be heading to Tennessee with his family, something they have been wanting to do for quite some time. But leaving was not so easy. “We made this decision together, but it was a tough one!” said Santucci, adding, “My service to this city and its commission has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I am incredibly proud of my team and the work we’ve done to move this city forward.”
The city released a statement expressing their gratitude for his many accomplishments and hard work through the years.
Mayor Bill Ganz said, “David is an exceptionally talented leader. His contributions to streamlining our financial processes and enhancing our community are immeasurable. While we’re disappointed to see him go, we wish him well in his future endeavors.”
Included in Santucci’s good works: he helped lead the city through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and post-pandemic staffing shortages. He also helped in showcasing the city as an attractive place for growth and economic revitalization.
In addition, he spearheaded redevelopment projects like the Braithwaite Center for Active Aging and the Tigner Center. He also brokered a partnership with the Bezos Academy.
Santucci led the charge to improve the city’s aging infrastructure with multiple drainage projects throughout the city, and the moving of utility lines underground at the beach.
He worked to improve and maintain the city’s bond ratings, which ended up providing favorable rates on loans to upgrade the city’s assets, and he made improvements on the city’s reserves and financial reporting.
He was very proud of achieving a budget devoid of any negative findings, which was recognized by the Government Finance Officers Association with a Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the FY 2024 budget.
“While this is an exciting time for Deerfield Beach, it’s bittersweet to leave,” Santucci said. “The city boasts an exceptional workforce dedicated to
this community. I’ve been privileged to work alongside such talented professionals.”
Now that Santucci has announced he is leaving, the city commission now has the task of finding a replacement for city manager.
