Assistant City Manager Tom Modica will take over as acting city manager when Pat West steps down on Sept. 20, officials announced Tuesday night.

The City Council in closed session on Tuesday also agreed to conduct a national search for a permanent replacement of West, who served in the position for 12 years.

Modica began his career with the city in 2002. His position is next in line to the city manager per the city charter, according to a statement by Mayor Robert Garcia. However the city has in the past—at least for department heads—not selected a person to be interim who is being considered for the permanent job.

It was not immediately clear whether Modica will be considered for the permanent position of city manager, which is charged with leading most city functions, including the budget and all city departments.

West, 65, says he intends to continue working in the private sector as a management consultant after he leaves his current role.