City Administration

The City of Brighton operates under the Council-Manager form of government, through a Home Rule Charter. The City Manager position serves as the Chief Executive and Administrative Officer for the City and is responsible for the proper administration of all affairs of the City. The daily business of City operations is the responsibility of the City Manager, who is appointed by the City Council. In addition, the City Manager prepares recommendations for Council consideration and implements the policy direction approved by the City Council. City personnel report to the City Manager.

City Manager Michael Martinez

“I’m dedicated to moving the city forward with all the positive projects and initiatives underway and all the new ideas Council and staff will develop in the time to come."


Martinez served as Assistant City Manager of Economic Development and Communications & Engagement, overseeing both departments. Additionally, Martinez oversees the Brighton Urban Renewal Authority on behalf of the city and serves as the Executive Director. 


Martinez came to the City of Brighton in March 2015 as Economic Development Specialist for the Brighton Economic Development Corporation and was promoted to Assistant Economic Development Director in September 2015. 


In March 2016, he became the Economic Development Director. He has more than 15 years of local government experience, working in a variety of roles with the City of Brighton and the City and County of Denver. 


A native of Adams County, Martinez earned his bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Colorado-Denver and a master’s degree in political science from the University of Colorado - Denver’s award winning Center for New Directions.

michael martinez