Buckeye City Council will consider changing City Manager Douglas Sandstrom’s employment agreement Tuesday, Sept. 15, following his annual review. The special meeting begins at 4 p.m. in City Council Chambers.
First, council members plan to discuss Sandstrom’s annual performance evaluation in executive session. They will then return to public session, according to the meeting agenda. However, the two-page agenda does not include proposed contract language or specify changes to compensation, benefits, or employment terms. The document also does not establish whether council will consider a raise.
Sandstrom became Buckeye’s city manager when Council approved his contract Aug. 26, 2025, with an annual salary of $310,000. He previously served as Buckeye’s deputy city manager. As city manager, Sandstrom oversees daily city operations and implements policies the elected council adopts.
In March of 2025, Former City Manager Cotterman resigned days after the Arizona Department of Child Safety informed Buckeye’s police department of allegations against him, according to a statement released by the city. The city initially described the decision as a personnel matter and declined to provide additional information. No updates have been provided as of today. Dave Roderique served as interim city manager until Sandstrom’s appointment.
Public action follows closed review
Arizona law allows closed sessions for certain personnel discussions and legal advice. However, any final vote approving the employment amendment must occur in public.
Separately, the agenda calls for legal advice about contract negotiations involving a potential economic development project. It does not identify the business, proposed location, investment amount, or potential jobs.
The contract amendment discussion is the only action item listed for the special meeting.
