Suzanne Ludlow, Deputy City Manager of Takoma Park, will take over as acting city manager starting Sept. 8 upon the departure of Barbara Matthews, who leaves that post to take a similar position in Rockville.

Ludlow has a long history with Takoma Park. She has worked for the city since November 1993 and was appointed deputy city manager in January 2008. Ludlow has also held the positions of community and government liaison, economic and community development coordinator, and assistant housing and community development director for special projects. Ludlow also helped guide Takoma Park through being annexed into Montgomery County in 1997.

The search for a permanent city manager has begun.

A request for proposals for executive search firm services will be issued the week of July 30 and the City Council is expected to award a contract on Sept. 4, following the Council's summer recess.