The City of Indio is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Nicks as the city’s next city manager, following unanimous approval by the Indio City Council at its May 6, 2026 meeting. Nicks will officially assume the role on June 13, 2026, following the retirement of current City Manager Bryan Montgomery, whose final day with the City will be June 12, 2026.
Nicks has served as the City of Indio’s Assistant City Manager since September 2024 and brings over 26 years of local government experience to the position. Since joining the City, he has played a key leadership role in advancing several of Indio’s most significant initiatives and infrastructure projects, including leading the development of the 2025 – 2030 Strategic Plan, construction of the new City Hall and Civic Center Campus, planning the future Police Department Headquarters, long-term development planning efforts, strengthening the City’s fiscal position, and expanding funding opportunities for capital improvement projects.
“Jonathan has already demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the City of Indio,” said Mayor Elaine Holmes. “His collaborative approach, extensive municipal experience, and forward-thinking vision make him the right leader to continue the momentum Indio is experiencing and into its next chapter.”
Prior to joining the City of Indio, Nicks served as Deputy City Manager for the City of Menifee, where he held multiple leadership roles, including interim public works director, community services director, human resources director, and project manager. He also oversaw facility maintenance, solid waste, and environmental services operations.
Before his tenure in Menifee, Nicks served as deputy director for Orange County Parks and Community Services, managing a $120 million operating budget, a $30 million annual capital improvement program, and nearly 400 employees. Earlier in his career, he served as community services and public works director for the City of Placentia, where he helped establish the Placentia Community Foundation and served as its first executive director.
“It is an incredible honor to be appointed as Indio’s next city manager,” said Nicks. “Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside City Council, dedicated staff, and community members who are deeply committed to Indio’s progress and success. I look forward to continuing that work, building upon the City’s momentum, and helping shape an even stronger future for our residents, businesses, and visitors.”
Outgoing city manager Bryan Montgomery expressed confidence in the City’s future leadership.
“Jonathan is a highly respected and principled leader whose dedication to public service is evident in everything he does,” said Montgomery. “His collaborative leadership, problem-solving ability, and commitment to public service have already made a significant impact on the organization and community, and I am confident Indio will continue to thrive under his leadership.”
Nicks holds a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fullerton, a master’s degree in public administration from California State University, Long Beach, a Leadership Certification from Chapman University, and a Smart City Certification from Pepperdine University. He is a member of the National Parks & Recreation Association, American Public Works Association, California Parks & Recreation Society, Municipal Management Association of Southern California, and will soon earn Credentialed Manager status with the International City/County Management Association.