It's time for a national search for St. Augustine City Manager, as I wrote in the St. Augustine Record in my April 26, 2010 Guest Column, here:
City of St. Augustine press release:
September 29, 2026
City Manager David Birchim announces retirement
Commission will select interim city manager
On Monday, September 28, City of St. Augustine City Manager David Birchim submitted his letter of retirement to City Commissioners, effective Wednesday, December 16, 2026. Birchim was selected from three candidates in May 2023 to serve as City Manager, following former City Manager John Regan upon his retirement in June of that year.
Upon retirement, Birchim will have 29 years of dedicated service to the City of St. Augustine, decades of experience in professional urban planning and public administration, including more than 23 years in supervisory and leadership positions. His extensive knowledge of City operations, commitment to public service, and leadership have helped guide the organization and advance important initiatives.
During his tenure as City Manager, Birchim worked closely with the City Commission, staff, residents, and community partners to manage City resources while addressing the challenges of a growing and evolving community. His leadership reflected a commitment to balancing St. Augustine’s future with the preservation of the history and character that make the city unique.
Birchim’s career closes with many successes to his credit, including the creation of the Community Services Department and development of the Dignity Pavilion, advancing the West King Street Parking Garage and new Anastasia Island fire station initiatives, and most recently, a complete revision to the City’s management and operations of Nights of Lights, the globally recognized, community holiday event.
“It has been an honor to serve the City of St. Augustine and to work alongside such a dedicated team,” said Birchim. “Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of being part of many projects and initiatives that will have a lasting impact on the city. I’m grateful to the City Commission, staff, community partners, and especially our residents for their trust and support. St. Augustine is an extraordinary and special place. I’m proud of what we have accomplished together and confident in the City’s continued success.”
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.
The City Commission accepted Birchim’s letter, releasing him from his contract which is set to expire on June 2, 2028. At the next meeting when all commissioners are present, they will select an interim City Manager to allow the final decision to made by the newly seated board in 2027.
Media inquiries may be directed to Melissa Wissel, Communications Director, at 904.293.3307.
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Attachment: Retirement letter submitted by City Manager David Birchim, September 28, 2026
Melissa Wissel
Communications Director
City of St. Augustine | Communications Department
P.O. Box 210 | St. Augustine, FL 32085
Office: 904-825-1053
Mobile: 904-293-3307
Email: mwissel@citystaug.com
Fax: 904-825-1096
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Please Note: Florida has a very broad Public Records Law. Unless specifically exempt by state law,
written communications to city officials or staff regarding official city business are public records
available to the public and media upon request. If your email communication is related to official
government business, it may therefore be subject to public disclosure.
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