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West Hollywood council honors retiring city manager David Wilson and approves Jackie Rocco as successor
Summary
The West Hollywood City Council honored outgoing City Manager David Wilson and approved an employment agreement appointing Jackie Rocco as city manager effective Jan. 8, 2026, with a 24‑month term and base salary of $368,500. The consent calendar passed 5–0.
The West Hollywood City Council recognized City Manager David Allen Wilson on Dec. 15 as he prepares to retire and approved an employment agreement to install Jackie Rocco as the city’s next city manager.
Council members gathered to present a proclamation summarizing Wilson’s more than 25 years of municipal service, including his leadership during the COVID‑19 pandemic and stewardship of the city’s finances. ‘‘You provided the stability the city needed,’’ Council Member Meister said, thanking Wilson for his steadiness during ‘‘very uncertain’’ periods. Wilson told the council he loves the city and thanked staff for their support, saying he will ‘‘leave the city in really good hands with Jackie Rocco at the helm as city manager.’’ (David Wilson)
The council approved, on the consent calendar, the employment agreement that will take effect Jan. 8, 2026. Staff read the terms into the record: a 24‑month term with an available 12‑month renewal beginning Jan. 8, 2028; a base salary of $368,500; a deferred‑compensation contribution of 3% of base salary; a $250 monthly auto and business reimbursement; a $100 monthly cell‑phone allowance; and a six‑month severance provision. The consent calendar passed 5–0; Council Member Meister noted a separate no vote on an unrelated item (B7) that was recorded.
Mayor Chelsea Byers and several council members praised Wilson’s institutional knowledge and mentorship. ‘‘You were present. You steadied the ship,’’ Council Member Erickson said. Vice Mayor John Heilman called Wilson ‘‘an incredible public servant.’’ Wilson’s remarks were brief; he reiterated gratitude to staff and the community and endorsed Rocco as his successor.
The council also moved other personnel items (F2, F3) to consent at the start of the meeting. The appointment of Jackie Rocco will be formalized at the start date staff read into the record; the council did not take separate action beyond adopting the consent calendar.
Next steps: the incoming city manager’s contract begins Jan. 8, 2026. The council and staff indicated they will participate in ceremonial presentations and a photo with Wilson and Rocco before adjournment.
Note: figures and contract terms above were read into the public record by staff during the consent calendar presentation.
