Christine Alilovich, the former top administrator for San Rafael, has been chosen by the Sonoma City Council as an Interim City Manager, to support the city while officials search for a permanent replacement for outgoing City Manager David Guhin.

The council is expected to formalize Alilovich’s employment agreement at the March 30 meeting, officials said. If approved, she will take the helm on April 6, providing a seamless transition as Guhin departs for his new role as Sonoma County Executive, where he will serve as the chief administrative officer for the county.

Alilovich brings a deep resume in North Bay governance. During her tenure in San Rafael, she managed a $192 million budget and a workforce of 450 employees serving 60,000 residents. Alilovich’s experience spans public safety, infrastructure, community development and organizational leadership, according to city staff.Her career includes leadership roles in Marin and Sonoma counties and additional experience in public sector consulting. She received a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California. Alilovich lives in Novato and is the mother of four children and grandmother of three.

“I’m honored to support the city of Sonoma during this transition. Sonoma is a truly special community and I look forward to supporting the important work already underway,” Alilovich said in a statement, noting her focus will be on maintaining continuity in day-to-day operations.

Mayor Ron Wellander praised the outgoing manager while expressing confidence in the interim appointment. “David has been an exceptional leader for Sonoma,” he said. “Our focus now is on maintaining the momentum that the Council, city staff and our community have built together over the past several years and continuing to move the city forward. We look forward to working with Christine and appreciate her stepping in to support the organization during this transition.”

Under the agreement, Alilovich’s salary will be set at the current pay scale for the city manager position, $274,073 per year.

In addition to the interim hire, the Council will consider a contract for professional recruitment services at the March 30 meeting, to begin a nationwide search for a permanent successor. Guhin’s final day with the city is April 5 and city officials are hosting a farewell event in his honor at 4:30 p.m. on April 1 at Maysonnave House, 291 First St. East.

The City Council will meet at 6 p.m. on March 30 in City Council Chambers, 177 First St. West. The meeting will be available visa live stream through the city’s meeting portal, https://sonomacity.civicweb.net/Portal/.