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Twentynine Palms appoints Kevin Cole as city manager; council approves employment agreement

Twentynine Palms City Council · April 28, 2026

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Summary

After a closed‑session recruitment update, the council voted to appoint Kevin Cole as city manager and approved an employment agreement that includes a $186,000 base salary, a car allowance, professional development funds and a six‑month severance provision; Councilwoman Ramirez abstained.

The Twentynine Palms City Council voted to appoint Kevin Cole as city manager and approved a related employment agreement to take effect May 16.

The mayor summarized a multi‑stage recruitment process that began in late 2023, leading to an interview and negotiation phase; the mayor and negotiating subcommittee recommended Cole based on his prior experience with the city and in local project work. The proposed employment agreement includes a $186,000 base salary, a monthly car allowance ($700), city phone use, $2,500 annually for professional organizations, and a six‑month severance provision in certain post‑election circumstances. Council discussed vacation accrual and PERS contribution status adjustments tied to prior service.

Public comment: Several residents and local officials spoke in favor of Cole’s appointment, including a trustee at Copper Mountain College and local nonprofit leaders who praised his familiarity with the community and ability to connect resources.

Vote and conflict statement: Councilwoman Ramirez stated at the start of the item that she would abstain from the conversation because of a potential conflict related to her outside work; the council proceeded and approved the appointment with a recorded tally of four ayes, zero noes, and one abstention. The mayor stated the effective date for the appointment would be May 16.

Transition: Outgoing City Manager Stone delivered remarks thanking community partners and confirmed he will assist with the transition and that staff have prepared summaries to support Cole’s onboarding.