Desert Hot Springs names longtime staffer Doria Wilmes as city manager

The Desert Hot Springs City Council unanimously approved an employment agreement on June 3 to appoint Doria Wilmes as the city’s new city manager.

Mayor Mattis moved to approve the contract; Mayor Pro Tem Gardner seconded the motion and a roll-call vote recorded ‘yes’ from Councilmember Pitts, Councilmember Pai, Councilmember Voss, Mayor Pro Tem Gardner and Mayor Mattis. The motion passed unanimously.

City attorney (S3) introduced the employment agreement during the administrative calendar and asked the new city manager and council to come forward for the vote. After the motion carried, Wilmes addressed the dais and the public, thanking councilmembers, staff and her family and saying she would “step into it with the deep respect for those that led before me, a clear sense of purpose, and an unwavering commitment to public service.” (Doria Wilmes, S7)

Wilmes—who staff described as having worked up through city ranks—told the council she is committed to listening to residents and serving the city with transparency and boldness when necessary. The council recessed briefly after the swearing-in for family photographs and then reopened the meeting for public comment.

The appointment followed standard procedures: the council moved the item forward from the administrative calendar for immediate consideration and approved the agreement by roll-call vote. No dissent or abstentions were recorded.

Next steps: Wilmes will assume the responsibilities of city manager under the terms of the approved employment agreement; the council did not discuss a start date beyond normal onboarding remarks.

Sources: City attorney staff report and council roll-call vote at the June 3, 2025 Desert Hot Springs City Council meeting.