CHANDLER, Ariz. – Chandler Acting City Manager John Pombier has announced the appointments of Leah Powell and Ryan Peters to Deputy City Manager positions in the City Manager’s Office. Both are current City of Chandler employees.
“Both Leah and Ryan are instrumental to Chandler’s success and this role will expand their opportunities to contribute to our community,“ said Chandler Acting City Manager John Pombier. “As Deputy City Manager, they will address some of the most complex issues facing Chandler, including the future development of housing and infrastructure projects.”
Powell has been with Chandler since 1996 and previously served five years as an Assistant to the City Manager. In 2009, she transitioned to Chandler’s Neighborhood Resources Department and has served as its department director since 2017. In that capacity, she has overseen the city’s code enforcement, neighborhood preservation and neighborhood engagement programs.
Powell has managed the Chandler Public Housing Authority and process to redevelop public housing sites through public-private partnerships, including a 157-unit affordable housing complex slated to open in late 2026. She also has managed the city’s community development programs and expanded services that prevent and address homelessness.
Powell previously worked 11 years for the City of Albuquerque, New Mexico, coordinating its Keep Albuquerque Beautiful program and youth recreational programs.
Peters has been with Chandler since 2016, representing the city as its designated lobbyist for legislative affairs, and has been Chandler’s Strategic Initiatives Director since 2021. In that capacity, he helped Chandler secure over $100 million through grants and federal and regional funding for roadway and water infrastructure as well as for expanded transit services. He has negotiated agreements to strengthen city infrastructure and connectivity.
Peters has secured funding and overseen the implementation of Chandler Flex and other transit programs. He also has managed the development of complex city code amendments, development agreements and standards for private utility infrastructure in city right-of-way.
Before joining Chandler, Peters worked for more than 10 years in legislative affairs and intergovernmental programs at the League of Arizona Cities and Towns, City of Glendale, Arizona State House of Representatives and Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The deputy city manager reports to the city manager and assists with overseeing the administration and day-to-day operations of the city.
Media contact:
Matthew Burdick
City of Chandler Communications Director
480-782-2232