PS City Manager Announces Retirement

City Manager Scott Stiles Announces Retirement

PALM SPRINGS — First it was Police Chief Andy Mills. Now, City Manager Scott Stiles has announced his retirement, effective Nov. 1, concluding a distinguished career spanning more than 43 years in public service and more than three years leading the City of Palm Springs.

Since joining Palm Springs in March 2023, Stiles has guided the City through some of its most significant challenges while advancing major investments and initiatives focused on infrastructure, fiscal stability, homelessness, public safety, economic development, and the long-term vitality of the community.

During his tenure, Stiles secured $50 million in bridge funding following the unprecedented Tropical Storm Hilary emergency in 2023; oversaw the opening of the City’s Navigation Center, which provides 135 units of emergency overnight housing; delivered balanced biennial budgets; implemented a Strategic Pension Funding Plan that included a $28 million lump-sum payment to CalPERS; and oversaw the restoration and reopening of the historic Plaza Theatre and the long awaited Thompson Hotel.

He also advanced a number of major investments that will shape Palm Springs for years to come, including the Sunrise Park Library renovation, plans for a new Fire Station 1, the Airport Master Plan, and the $135 million modernization and expansion of the Palm Springs Convention Center now underway.
Stiles also guided implementation of the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan and led efforts to support local businesses impacted by the May 2025 domestic terrorism bombing targeting the region’s only fertility clinic, helping connect affected businesses with critical resources and assistance as they worked to recover and reopen.

“Scott brought decades of experience, steady leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public service to Palm Springs,” said Mayor Naomi Soto. “He helped guide our city through extraordinary challenges while moving forward important projects and investments that will benefit our residents for generations. On behalf of the City Council and the residents of Palm Springs, I extend our deepest gratitude to Scott for his exceptional service and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.”

“It has been the honor of my professional life to serve as City Manager of Palm Springs,” Stiles said in a   prepared statement. “I am incredibly proud of what our employees, City Council, and community have accomplished together. None of these achievements happens because of one person — they are the result of talented and dedicated employees, strong leadership from our City Council, and a community that cares deeply about the future of Palm Springs. I leave knowing the City is well positioned for the future.”

The City of Palm Springs will soon announce the next steps in the recruitment process for a new City Manager in the coming weeks. The City is committed to a thoughtful, thorough, and transparent process that will ensure strong leadership and a smooth transition for the organization and the Palm Springs community.