The Palm Springs City Council has appointed Jim Vanderpool, who previously served as Anaheim's city manager, as its interim city manager. Vanderpool will assume the role as current City Manager Scott Stiles is scheduled to retire on November 1, concluding his three years with the city.
The search for a permanent City Manager in Palm Springs is already underway, with Valerie Phillips of Bob Murray & Associates having been hired earlier this month to lead the process. This search is expected to take approximately four to six months.
Vanderpool brings three decades of experience in municipal government, including a six-year tenure as the city manager of Anaheim. His departure from Anaheim occurred in February of this year when he resigned from his position. This resignation followed the launch of an FBI probe regarding his close ties to resort interests, specifically linked to the sale of Angel Stadium in 2020. According to reports, Vanderpool took a trip to Lake Havasu, which was paid for by the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce. This trip reportedly happened as city officials were preparing to vote on a chamber-backed deal for Angel Stadium. Vanderpool allegedly did not disclose the trip, which subsequently led to an investigation by the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). Vanderpool stated he was unaware that the chamber had paid for his lodging. He was never charged with a crime.
The city of Palm Springs addressed the circumstances of Vanderpool's exit in its official announcement. The city stated that while in Anaheim, he "maintained the unanimous support of the balance of the Anaheim City Council." The announcement further detailed that Vanderpool resigned earlier this year after a disagreement with the then-mayor concerning leadership direction and an FPPC complaint.
Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto commented on the decision, stating that the City Council “carefully considered Jim's extensive qualifications, professional experience, and the circumstances surrounding his Anaheim resignation.” Mayor Soto expressed confidence that Vanderpool’s “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.” She added that he brings “the experience and collaborative leadership needed to guide our organization,” emphasizing the priority to maintain momentum, support City employees, and ensure high-level service for residents, businesses, and visitors.
Vanderpool himself expressed honor regarding the Palm Springs City Council's confidence in him, and excitement to serve what he described as an “exceptional, welcoming, and diverse community.” He highlighted Palm Springs as a “world-class destination” known for its beauty, vibrant economy, inclusivity, strong community, and commitment to celebrating diversity. He affirmed that his focus will be on “providing steady, collaborative leadership,” supporting City employees, and working closely with the City Council and community to maintain momentum, strengthen City services, and deliver meaningful results.
In his interim capacity, Vanderpool will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the City. His duties include providing leadership and support to City departments and collaborating with the City Council and executive leadership team to advance key priorities. These priorities encompass public safety, housing, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. The role also involves significant capital investments, specifically mentioning 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, Vanderpool also shared that he and his husband are pleased to reside in Palm Springs during his tenure as Interim City Manager. He conveyed his anticipation of working with the community, building relationships with residents and businesses, and helping ensure the city continues to thrive as a unique place to live, work, and visit.
