Noah Saldo’s unique journey to Southport City Manager

SOUHTPORT, NC (WWAY) — Recently, the Southport Board of Aldermen appointed, Noah Saldo, as its new City Manager.  

Saldo previously worked as a funeral director, but his career shifted to work in local government. 

In August of 2024 Noah Saldo started as Southport City Clerk. Just six months later, he was named Interim City Manager.  

At the September 11th Board of Alderman meeting, Saldo was appointed permanent City Manager.  

“I’ve enjoyed being here throughout the positions especially as manager being able to make the impact in the community that I’ve been able to make together with all of our other employees and board and community,” Saldo shared. 

Prior to joining local government, the Cleveland County native was a funeral director and held a bachelor’s degree in mortuary science.  

“So, my dad is a minister back home so I would always go with him to visit folks in the hospital or in the funeral homes when someone in our congregation passed,” Saldo said.  

Saldo went on to say, “In high school there was a gentleman that was funeral director in our congregation. So, I started working with him in our local funeral home,”  

Saldo says he was always interested in local government, so he went back to school for a master’s in public administration. 

“It translates well to this job being able to listen to the community and be kinda that one they can rely on through the different challenges or opportunities we have here in the city,” Saldo shared. 

At just 25-years-old, Saldo is one of the youngest city managers in the Cape Fear region, which can come with challenges.  

“Sometimes there’s that perception being younger that I can come with stereo types, but I think anybody regardless of age, it’s about the education and experience you have regardless of age,” Saldo explained before saying the city welcomed him with open arms. 

Saldo has many goals for the future but overall wants unity.  

“Sometimes local government issues can be divisive, so I want to work all of our board members, community members, and advisory boards to kind of bring together a new tone. We can always disagree but disagree respectfully and peacefully,” Saldo stated. 

Some of Saldo’s goals include making sure roads and infrastructure in the city are up-to-date and taken care of, including the storm water system.  

He also mentioned the renovation of the old City Hall Courthouse Building to revitalize the historic building for the Southport Police Department Headquarters.