Palm Springs appoints James ‘Jim’ Vanderpool as interim city manager

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - The Palm Springs City Council voted to appoint Jim Vanderpool as its interim city manager.

“I am honored by the confidence the Palm Springs City Council has placed in me and excited for the opportunity to serve such an exceptional, welcoming, and diverse community,” said Vanderpool. “Palm Springs is a world-class destination known not only for its beauty and vibrant economy, but also for its proud tradition of inclusivity, its strong sense of community, and its commitment to celebrating diversity. With so many important initiatives underway, my focus will be on providing steady, collaborative leadership, supporting the City's employees, and working closely with the City Council and community to maintain momentum, strengthen City services, and deliver meaningful results.”

Vanderpool will replace Palm Springs' current City Manager Scott Stiles, who is set to retire on November 1 after three years with the city.

Earlier this month, the city hired Valerie Phillips of Bob Murray & Associates to lead the search for a permanent City Manager. The search process is expected to take approximately four to six months.

Vanderpool has 30 years of experience in municipal government, most recently serving as the city manager of Anaheim for six years.

Vanderpool resigned from his position in February, after an FBI probe was launched over his close ties to resort interests involving the sale of Angel Stadium in 2020. According to Voice of OC, Vanderpool went on a trip to Lake Havasu paid for by the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce. The trip came as city officials were set to vote to finalize a chamber-backed Angel Stadium deal.

Vanderpool allegedly did not disclose the trip, which led to an investigation by the Fair Political Practices Commission. Vanderpool said he did not know the chamber had paid for his lodging.

Vanderpool was never charged with a crime.

The city of Palm Springs did address Vanderpool's exit in its announcement, writing that he "maintained the unanimous support of the balance of the Anaheim City Council."

"... he chose to resign his position earlier this year following a disagreement with the mayor related to leadership direction and an FPPC complaint," reads the city of Palm Springs' news release.

“The Palm Springs City Council carefully considered Jim's extensive qualifications, professional experience, and the circumstances surrounding his Anaheim resignation,” said Mayor Naomi Soto. “We believe his decades of municipal leadership, experience managing complex city operations, and understanding of tourism-driven economies make him well qualified to serve Palm Springs at this moment. Jim brings the experience and collaborative leadership needed to guide our organization. Our priority is to maintain momentum, support our City employees, and ensure residents, businesses, and visitors continue receiving the high level of service they expect and deserve.”

As Palm Springs Interim City Manager, Vanderpool will oversee day-to-day City operations, provide leadership and support to City departments, and work closely with the City Council and executive leadership team to advance major priorities, including public safety, housing, economic development, infrastructure improvements, and significant capital investments; including the renovation of the Palm Springs Public Library, the modernization and expansion of the Palm Springs Convention Center, and long-range improvements at Palm Springs International Airport.

“On a personal note, my husband and I are pleased to call Palm Springs home during my time as Interim City Manager,” Vanderpool added. “I look forward to working alongside the community, building relationships with residents and businesses, and helping ensure Palm Springs continues to thrive as a uniquely special place to live, work, and visit.”

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