DHS City Manager ‘On Leave’

Councilmember Confirms City Manager ‘on Leave’; Resignation Expected

DESERT HOT SPRINGS — City Manager Frank J. Luckino is technically on leave and is expected to submit his letter of resignation imminently, Councilmember Dirk Voss confirmed for Uken Report on Tuesday morning.

Voss said he has not personally read the letter, which is still being drafted, but said staff has been told of Luckino’s impending departure. It is unclear when the resignation takes effect.

Doria Wilms has been named Acting City Manager.

On Monday, Wilms told Uken Report, “The City Manager is not gone; however, Frank did have an unexpected family emergency and is out of the office to care for his father. I have been named Acting City Manager in his absence.” His family resides in Pennsylvania.

Mayor Scott said “no comment’ when asked if Luckino had resigned.

“Frank is dealing with something very personal.” Matas said. “There will be more clarity next week and a new release sent out.”

Next week is when the City Council is expected to formally accept Luckino’s resignation.

Luckino began his duties Nov. 6, 2023. He had been the city manager for Twentynine Palms for more than eight years and previously served as the city manager of Blythe for almost two years, according to Linkedin. He was also the finance director for both cities, the city of Desert Hot Springs said in a press release at the time.

Luckino was also the assistant general manager and chief financial officer for the Hi-Desert Water District for four years and councilmember for the town of Yucca Valley for seven years. He has more than 30 years of experience in financial affairs and worked for PACE Entertainment, Planet Hollywood International and Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, according to the city of Desert Hot Springs.

He was hired for an annual wage of $235,000, deferred compensation of $12,000 and an auto allowance of $7,200.