Former Anaheim City Manager Jim Vanderpool was appointed as Palm Springs’ interim city manager by the city council Wednesday following the retirement of Scott Stiles.
Vanderpool will begin work Thursday. Stiles’ retirement becomes effective Nov. 1.
“The Palm Springs City Council carefully considered Jim’s extensive qualifications, professional experience, and the circumstances surrounding his Anaheim resignation,” Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto said in a statement.
“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.”
Vanderpool resigned as Anaheim’s city manager Feb. 3 amid an investigation by the Fair Political Practices Commission into a Lake Havasu retreat he did not disclose in 2020 and what the statement announcing his hiring called “a disagreement with the mayor (Ashleigh Aitken) related to leadership direction.”
The Costa Mesa-based Daily Pilot reported that Vanderpool issued a statement before his resignation saying, “With more than 30 years in city government, I had already planned to retire this year. I’m moving that up now and seeking nothing but a smooth, positive transition for Anaheim.”
Vanderpool was Anaheim’s city manager from September 2020 to February after being Buena Park’s city manager for eight years.
“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,* Vanderpool said in the statement announcing his appointment.
“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.”
The city has hired Bob Murray & Associates to conduct the search for a permanent city manager, which is anticipated to take four to six months. The statement described the firm as “an executive recruitment firm specializing in local government leadership in California.”