Coachella Welcomes New City Manager

The City of Coachella is welcoming Gustavo J. Romo as its new City Manager, marking a new leadership chapter for one of the Coachella Valley’s growing communities.

The City announced that Romo has been serving in the role since June 15, 2026. His appointment concludes a comprehensive search for a permanent City Manager. After evaluating qualified candidates, the City Council selected Romo based on his distinguished career in local government and proven leadership experience.

"On behalf of the City Council, we are honored to welcome Mr. Romo as Coachella's new City Manager," said Mayor Dr. Frank Figueroa. "His extensive leadership experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to public service will help guide the City as we build on our progress and advance our vision for the future."

Romo brings more than 32 years of municipal leadership experience to Coachella. Most recently, he served as Deputy City Manager for the City of Beaumont starting in March 2025 and as Interim City Manager from December 2025 through May 2026. Previously, he served as Deputy City Manager for the City of Bell Gardens and held leadership roles as Community Development Director and Economic Development Director in several Southern California cities.

His extensive background in local government, strategic planning, economic development, and community development provides the experience and leadership needed to help guide Coachella into its next chapter.

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead such a talented team and a caring, engaged community," said City Manager Romo. "The past few months learning about the City of Coachella and the initial weeks of getting started have shown me that the City has grown significantly and holds immense potential to continue expanding in a sustainable and forward-looking manner."

As City Manager, Romo oversees the City's day-to-day operations, provides leadership to City departments, and works closely with the City Council to implement its priorities while delivering high-quality services to position Coachella for long-term success.