Gilroy council appoints Matt Morley as city administrator; names finance director interim

The Gilroy City Council voted 7–0 on Jan. 5 to appoint Matt Morley as the city’s next city administrator and approved an employment agreement staff summarized as carrying a $339,000 annual base salary and a package of benefits, including deferred compensation, medical and a vehicle allowance. The council set an effective start date of Feb. 9, 2026.

In a staff report, Leanne McPhillips said the recruitment, led by Ralph Anderson and Associates, drew 26 applicants. A council subcommittee interviewed finalists and recommended Morley after a background check and contract negotiations. McPhillips described Morley as a “high energy, results oriented leader” with nearly 29 years in local government and experience in Saratoga, Cupertino, Los Gatos and San Jose.

Supporters at the meeting praised the hire. Councilmembers commended Morley’s experience and his local ties; in response Morley said he was “glad to be coming home” and that his family was present at the meeting.

Because the previous interim city administrator resigned, the council also approved a separate motion to appoint Finance Director Harjot Senghar as interim city administrator from Jan. 5 through Feb. 8, 2026. Staff said the interim appointment is consistent with Article 7 of the Gilroy City Charter and delegates the powers of the city administrator to the interim appointee for the duration of the appointment.

The motions were made and approved by roll call. Councilmember Bracco moved the appointment of Morley with a second from Councilmember Fugazi; the final tally for that motion was 7–0. The interim appointment of Harjot Senghar was moved by Councilmember Bracco and seconded by Councilmember Ramirez and passed 7–0.

Next steps: staff said the employment agreement for Morley will be executed following council approval, and preparations are under way for his Feb. 9 start date. The council did not take additional personnel motions at the meeting.