Palm Springs announces next steps in city manager transition

PALM SPRINGS, CA (KESQ) - The City of Palm Springs is moving forward with plans for a leadership transition following City Manager Scott Stiles’ announcement that he will retire effective November 1, 2026.

The city has hired Valerie Phillips of Bob Murray & Associates to lead the search for a permanent City Manager. The nationally recognized public-sector recruitment firm expects the process to take approximately four to six months and will include opportunities for input from residents, stakeholders and city employees.

News Channel 3 spoke exclusively with Palm Springs City Manager Scott Stiles when he announced his retirement.

Residents and community stakeholders can also participate through a City Manager Community Survey, now available online through Engage Palm Springs.

At the same time, the City Council is recruiting an Interim City Manager to provide leadership and maintain continuity while the permanent search is underway. The city expects to announce the interim appointment in the coming weeks.

Mayor Naomi Soto said the transition will not disrupt ongoing city priorities, including infrastructure, economic development, public safety and housing.

“Palm Springs has tremendous momentum on many crucial priorities, and we are committed to protecting that momentum during this transition,” Soto said.