The City of Davis has appointed Daryel Dunston as its new City Manager after a unanimous 4-0 City Council vote on Tuesday. He will begin on September 15. Dunston previously served as Assistant City Manager for Santa Rosa, overseeing Planning and Economic Development and Housing and Community Services, and has nearly 20 years of experience in public service, including work with the City of Oakland in public policy and emergency management, according to the City of Davis.
Daryel Dunston’s career includes starting a family shelter in partnership with Emeryville, creating Santa Rosa’s first government transparency data dashboard, and leading labor negotiations. He was recognized in Who’s Who in America in 2024 and the North Bay Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 in 2023. On his appointment in Davis, Dunston said, “I am deeply humbled and sincerely appreciative of this distinct honor,” as reported by the City of Davis.
City officials announced the appointment of Dunston, with Mayor Bapu Vaitla stating that “Daryel’s unique mix of administrative skill, personal warmth and technical knowledge stood out among our pool of excellent candidates.” Vice Mayor Donna Neville also noted the experience and energy he brings. Dunston holds degrees from the University of Virginia and UC Berkeley’s Goldman School of Public Policy and has served on advisory boards for educational institutions. He is also involved in family life and enjoys cycling, writing, and golfing, as mentioned by the City of Davis.
