Rancho Cordova City Manager Micah Runner. Photo courtesy of City of Rancho Cordova

 

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - Micah Runner, the city manager of Rancho Cordova, has a clear vision for the future of this growing community. With a background steeped in public service and a passion for economic development, Runner is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, sustainable environment that prioritizes community engagement and collaboration.

Describing his role, Runner likens the city manager’s position to that of a CEO.

“I run the day-to-day operations under the direction of the City Council, which sets the policy direction,” he explained. “It’s a unique dynamic compared to the private sector, where many conversations happen behind closed doors. Here, we strive for transparency.”

Runner’s journey to city management began in Southern California, where he grew up in a family of public servants. His father, a former Lancaster mayor, provided him with early exposure to local government.

“I was interested in local government but not in being an elected official,” Runner said. “I wanted to focus on the administrative side, particularly economic development.”

Rancho Cordova City Manager Micah Runner stands alongside fellow Rancho Cordova leaders at the National League of Cities summer board meeting. Photo courtesy of City of Rancho Cordova

In 2007, Runner had the opportunity to join Rancho Cordova, which was still a relatively new city, just four years old at the time. That allowed him to pioneer original initiatives and tackle unique challenges. Runner also worked as a contractor for the city of Stockton during its bankruptcy, gaining valuable insights into the operational aspects of rebuilding a financially-distressed city.

From an organizational standpoint, as City Manager, Runner’s top priorities revolve around the city’s growth while ensuring effective delivery of services.

“We are always thinking about innovation, the best way to deliver customer service and keeping up with growth,” Runner said. “As we grow as a city, we have to also grow as a service provider and meet community needs.”

Runner describes some of the key projects currently happening, including the Mather Veterans Village, aimed at providing essential services to veterans, and the Mills Crossing project, which will create a vibrant mixes-use environment at the Mather light rail station.

In terms of innovation, Runner highlighted that the city is currently focused on AI training initiatives.

“We want to use those tools to be better, more resourceful, more efficient and be able to deliver more,” he said.

Despite the city’s progress, Runner acknowledges challenges, particularly the need to unify the city’s diverse communities.

“We have historic areas and new developments. How do we create a cohesive city rather than two separate places?” Runner said.

Additionally, Runner faces the challenge of managing misinformation and ensuring the community receives accurate updates on city initiatives.

“I spend a lot of time on rumor control,” Runner said. “It’s essential that residents have the right information.”

Rancho Cordova City Manager Micah Runner, third from the left, stands alongside Councilmember Linda Budge and Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District officers at last year’s State of the City. Photo courtesy of City of Rancho Cordova

Despite these hurdles, Runner finds immense fulfillment in local government.

“This is where the action is,” Runner said. “We can make real changes that directly impact people’s lives.”

Looking ahead, Runner hopes to leave a legacy defined by positive community impact.

“It’s not about one specific thing; it’s about a culmination of things. When you look back being able to see that you did things that impacted people’s lives and made their lives better, whether through economic opportunities, services delivery or whatever it might be,” Runner reflected.

For those aspiring to enter local government, Runner’s advice is clear: “Be authentic and be present. Listen for opportunities and take advantage of those opportunities. It’s not always a straight path but every decision should focus on what is best for the community.”