ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - Elk Grove City Manager Jason Behrmann has been awarded the League of California Cities’ Wes McClure Award of Distinction, one of the highest honors in California local government, recognizing exceptional leadership, integrity, innovation and service. 

Nominated by his peers in the Sacramento Valley Area Managers Group, Behrmann’s leadership reaches far beyond Elk Grove. This past year, he emerged as a central regional voice and led a coordinated effort to protect local control, representation and resources for smaller jurisdictions across Sacramento County through opposing harmful legislation. 

When the federal government shutdown delayed CalFresh benefits, Behrmann helped to coordinate an emergency fundraising effort that secured $131,000 in just 48 hours for the Elk Grove Food Bank, rallying partners across the region to meet urgent community needs. 

Behrmann has also transformed the culture inside City Hall. Through deep employee engagement, mentorship and intentional leadership, he has built a workplace rooted in trust, growth and excellence. Elk Grove’s 2025 National Employee Survey results reflect that impact: 93% of employees rated Elk Grove as a great place to work, 96% would recommend working there and 94% plan to stay.

With more than 27 years of service, this recognition is both well-earned and well-deserved.