Mayor David M. Sander, Ph.D. Photo courtesy of the City of Rancho Cordova

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - From working in Washington D.C., to Rancho Cordova, David M. Sander, Ph.D.’s journey to becoming mayor was shaped by both personal and professional experiences.

Elected to the first City Council when the city was incorporated, Sander was re-elected in subsequent years and has since served multiple terms as both mayor and vice-mayor. Now in his fifth term as mayor, a position that rotates, Sander’s commitment to the city is portrayed through local involvement and ongoing efforts to drive progress.

Sander’s path to public service in Rancho Cordova began when he moved to the city, motivated by a desire to leave what he called a “bubble” in Washington D.C. His wife’s ties to the area were a significant factor in the move and as they settled down in Rancho Cordova Sanders became more involved in local affairs through roles in the community council, the chamber of commerce, the church and the Planning Commission.

The turning point in Sander’s political career came when his name began being discussed by residents as a potential candidate for city leadership.

“I was 30 at the time and I had been involved in leadership roles for four years,” Sander recalled. “I had been doing a lot of the planning for the Fourth of July events in the city and people stared urging me to run.”

In 2002, Sander began his career with the Rancho Cordova City Council and has been involved ever since. Sander takes particular pride in the platform that the mayoral position provides.

Rancho Cordova Mayor David M. Sander, Ph.D., was part of a delegation representing the greater Sacramento region in South Korea. Photo courtesy of the City of Rancho Cordova

“It’s fun to be out there, talking to people and hearing their thoughts directly,” he said. This engagement, Sander said, offers valuable insights that inform the City Council’s decisions. He actively participates in public meetings, social media interactions and community events.

“Local government is all about these personal interactions,” Sander said.

Key priorities and goals during Sander’s tenure include enhancing the city’s image, boosting economic development, housing growth and improving public safety.

 “When we first pushed for incorporation of the city, no one paid much attention to us. Being part of a city that was just starting out gave me a unique perspective,” Sander said. “We made a lot of progress in our image, brought crime down and economic development up.”

One of Sander’s proudest achievements is the expansion of opportunities for local youth. Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, the city has facilitated programs ranging from sports leagues to educational initiatives.

“We have increased significantly the number of kids that have access to sports and we are building better facilities. It’s something that has really flourished,” the mayor said. Notable initiatives include the Rancho Cordova Athletic Association, the annual Hall of Fame event and the Youth Center.

Looking ahead, Sander envisions continued growth and investments in Rancho Cordova.

“We are seeing a lot of renewed interest from companies and more job opportunities. We have a great location and an excellent local job base,” Sander said.

His vision also includes continued efforts to create opportunities for youth, better support for senior citizens and expansion of cultural events and cultural interactions.

Mayor David M. Sander, Ph.D., participated in the 2023 Fourth of July parade while serving as vice- mayor of Rancho Cordova. Photo courtesy of the City of Rancho Cordova

“I want to bring people together and use the community council as a mechanism to create more opportunities,” he said.

Balancing his duties as mayor with personal interests is a challenge.

“Coaching has become my number one hobby,” Sander said. “I also love woodworking, biking along the American River Parkway and reading. My favorite place in Rancho Cordova is my backyard. After 27 years living here, my wife has achieved nirvana in the backyard; it is just a beautiful space.”

Reflecting on his career and his legacy as mayor, Sander remains driven by a desire for continuous improvement.

“I’m never fully satisfied. Good enough isn’t,” Sander said, quoting a mantra that has guided his tenure. “We must always push the boundaries and look for continuous improvement.”