PALM SPRINGS, CA
Palm Springs’ newly appointed interim city manager, Jim Vanderpool, has publicly disputed allegations about his conduct during his tenure in Anaheim, as questions about his appointment draw attention from local residents.
In an October 23 interview with NBC Palm Springs, Vanderpool said a workplace complaint had been taken out of context. According to the station, he disputed suggestions that he participated in homophobic comments and said the complaint described him as present during certain conversations, rather than participating in them.
The complaint involves allegations about workplace discussions concerning a former Anaheim mayoral adviser’s perceived sexual orientation. The allegations are disputed and should not be treated as findings of misconduct.
Appointment and leadership transition
The Palm Springs City Council appointed Vanderpool on October 21. He began work October 22, ahead of City Manager Scott Stiles’ retirement, effective November 1. Vanderpool previously served as Anaheim city manager from September 2020 until February 2026 and earlier led Buena Park.
In the city’s appointment announcement, Mayor Naomi Soto said council members considered Vanderpool’s qualifications, experience and the circumstances of his Anaheim resignation. The city said he left Anaheim following a disagreement with the mayor about leadership direction and a Fair Political Practices Commission complaint.
Separately, KESQ reported questions about a 2020 trip funded by the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and a subsequent investigation. KESQ reported that Vanderpool was not charged with a crime.
Response and community questions
NBC Palm Springs reported that some LGBTQ+ community members criticized the appointment. Vanderpool rejected the characterization of his conduct and said he believed Palm Springs council members had performed due diligence. The station also reported supportive statements from Anaheim council members Natalie Meeks and Norma Kurtz.
In a separate October 23 interview with KESQ, Vanderpool addressed questions surrounding his Anaheim departure.
What comes next
Vanderpool will oversee day-to-day municipal operations during the search for a permanent city manager, which the city expects to take four to six months. His responsibilities include public safety, housing, economic development and major infrastructure projects, including the public library, convention center and airport.
Questions that remain include what specific materials the council reviewed during its vetting process and the current status of the underlying Anaheim matters. The Palm Springs Tribune will continue to seek independently verified information about those questions.