City of St. Louis Announces Sarah Mangapora as the Next Building Commissioner

The City of St. Louis Department of Public Safety announced the appointment of Sarah Mangapora as the next Commissioner of the Building Division, bringing experience in architecture and construction management to the role.

"Sarah's appointment is a huge win for the City," said Mayor Cara Spencer. "Her strong vision for streamlining and modernizing operations is backed up by experience implementing complex strategic initiatives and managing large teams. She brings both private sector experience and a deep commitment to public service and I am thrilled she has stepped up to lead the department at this pivotal time."

Mangapora is a registered architect with the State of Missouri and currently serves as Organizational Development Manager at Tarlton Corporation, where she leads strategic process improvement, technology implementation, workforce development, and organizational initiatives across the company. Prior to that role, Mangapora spent a decade as a project manager at Tarlton, delivering healthcare and historic renovation construction projects throughout the St. Louis region.

"Sarah brings the combination of technical expertise, leadership, and commitment to St. Louis that we need to lead the Building Division into its next chapter," said Director of Public Safety Shawn Dace. "The work of the Building Division touches neighborhoods and residents across our city every day. Her experience navigating complex construction projects, working across organizations, and solving problems will be an asset as we continue working to make City government more responsive and effective for St. Louis."

Throughout her career, Mangapora has worked closely with architects, engineers, contractors, property owners, code officials, and building inspectors. Taking a collaborative team-based approach, she aligns diverse stakeholders on a shared vision for each project, from early planning through final inspection.

"Preserving St. Louis's architectural heritage and welcoming new development are both essential to the city's future," said Mangapora. "I'm honored to lead the Building Division at this critical moment. Behind every permit is a story: a business investing, a family growing, a neighborhood rebuilding. My goal is a Division that is easy for everyone to navigate, from application to final inspection."

Mangapora will assume the role of Building Commissioner on October 19, 2026.