By admin 
Elk Grove has named a longtime city employee who oversees the Police Department’s license plate reader program as its new deputy city manager.
Read more Eric Palmberg named El Dorado County sheriff following public debate over appointment
Andrea Cortez previously served as the Elk Grove Police Department’s Real-Time Information Center manager, a position that includes overseeing the city’s automatic license plate reader program, which has drawn controversy at recent City Council meetings.
Cortez joined the city in 2011 as a customer service specialist in the Finance Department and has also held a position in the Police Department’s records division, according to a news release from the city.
Her first day in the new role was Monday, according to the release.
“As a longtime Elk Grove resident and public safety professional, I’ve had the privilege of watching our community grow over the years and I’ve learned firsthand the importance of strong partnerships, community trust and preserving the quality of life that makes Elk Grove such a great place to call home,” Cortez said in the release.
City Manager Jason Behrmann said Cortez “brings a unique perspective” to the position because of her experience working across city departments.
Read more Rancho Cordova OKs another $2.2 million for Highway 50 pedestrian bridge
“Her ability to bring people together, use data and technology to solve problems and turn thoughtful planning into meaningful results will be a tremendous asset to our executive team,” Behrmann said in the release.
As deputy city manager, Cortez will oversee the city’s public affairs, District 56, civic innovation and sustainability teams. She will also lead special projects and advise the city manager, according to the release.
Her base salary is $191,000, according to city spokesperson Kristyn Nelson.
The city’s former deputy city manager, Kara Reddig, left the position in May to become Lodi’s city manager.
Read more UFC 333 Embedded, Episode 2: Merab Dvalishvili gets bit by a horse
This story was originally published October 19, 2026 at 2:13 PM.