South Pasadena’s City Council has officially selected L. Todd Hileman as the new City Manager, marking what many hope will be a turning point after years of administrative instability. The decision, finalized in the February 19, 2025, City Council meeting, follows a rigorous selection process that began in July 2024.
Hileman, an experienced municipal leader with nearly three decades of city management experience, most recently served as City Manager of Palm Desert, CA. His appointment comes at a critical juncture for South Pasadena, where trust in city leadership has been strained by a series of abrupt departures, financial mismanagement issues, mixed messaging on ‘MeasureSP’, and deep concerns over transparency.
South Pasadena’s Troubled City Hall History: 7-Years of City Manager Turmoil
The City Manager position in South Pasadena has been anything but stable over the past several years. The last two full-time City Managers—Stephanie DeWolfe and Armine Chaparyan—both left under controversial circumstances, leaving the city in a near-constant state of leadership and city staff transition.
Among the significant staffing problems is the hiring of a Finance Director—the position remains open at this time, with no interim in place.
The Stephanie DeWolfe Era (2017–2020)
- In September 2017, Stephanie DeWolfe was appointed as City Manager, bringing experience from Pasadena’s city administration.
- However, her tenure became increasingly controversial due to complaints about lack of transparency, community alienation, and development conflicts.
- By October 2020, mounting tensions culminated in DeWolfe’s abrupt resignation, with no clear public explanation.
- Following her departure, South Pasadena temporarily appointed Fire Chief Paul Riddle as acting City Manager.
The Armine Chaparyan Era (2021–2024)
- In March 2021, Armine Chaparyan was appointed as DeWolfe’s replacement, bringing experience in municipal management from San Gabriel and Glendale.
- Chaparyan’s administration faced early optimism, but cracks soon appeared, particularly regarding budget mismanagement and financial accountability.
- By August 2024, reports surfaced about bungled budget work and financial reporting failures that severely impacted the city’s financial planning.
- City Council forced her resignation in August 2024, following heated public debates and concerns over her handling of critical city affairs.
- Sheila Pautsch, Community Services Director & Police Chief Solinsky were named Co-Acting City Managers, temporarily stabilizing city operations.
A New Era On The Rise: The Appointment of L. Todd Hileman
The search for a new, permanent City Manager began in July 2024, with the City Attorney’s office initially managing the recruitment. Recognizing the need for a broader candidate pool, the city hired Ralph Anderson & Associates, an executive recruitment firm, to lead the search.
- The process attracted 44 applicants from across the country.
- In January 2025, six candidates were interviewed, and the top three were invited for final discussions.
- By mid-January, the City Council unanimously selected Hileman as the best candidate to restore stability and leadership in South Pasadena.
Who Is Todd Hileman?
Hileman brings 29 years of municipal management experience, with a track record of success in cities across Wisconsin, Arizona, Illinois, Texas, and California. Most recently, he served as City Manager of Palm Desert, CA, overseeing a $180 million operating budget and a workforce of 140 employees.
According to City Council members, his tenure in other cities reflects key strengths that South Pasadena desperately needs:
- Financial Management Expertise: In Glenview, Illinois, he developed long-term financial sustainability plans and modernized municipal operations.
- Infrastructure & Operational Efficiency: In Denton, Texas, a full-service city of 1,800 employees, he improved capital project delivery and municipal workflows.
- Community Engagement & Transparency: Throughout his career, he has emphasized accountability, clear communication, and responsible governance.
Contract & Compensation Details
- Base Salary: $300,000 per year, with no automatic cost-of-living adjustments.
- Performance Review: A six-month initial evaluation, followed by annual reviews.
- Relocation Assistance: Up to $15,000 reimbursement and a $2,000/month temporary housing stipend for six months.
- Retirement & Benefits:
- Enrolled in CalPERS (2% at 62 plan)
- $2,000/month contribution to a 401(a) retirement plan
- Healthcare stipend of $1,950/month (family) or $1,650/month (employee +1)
- Automobile allowance of $600/month
‘Cautiously Optimistic’: Business Leaders & Residents of South Pasadena Watching Closely
Hileman’s appointment marks a potential reset for South Pasadena’s city administration. His expertise in financial oversight, government efficiency, and strategic planning aligns with the city’s urgent need for stability and improved governance. The expectation is that his leadership can restore public trust in City Hall. Combined with the expert leadership of recently elected council members Sheila Rossi and Omari Ferguson, working with Mayor Jane Braun; Hileman has the horsepower necessary to bring much-needed operational improvements to a city that has experienced prolonged uncertainty and stagnated city improvement projects.
South Pasadena residents and community stakeholders will be watching closely as Hileman officially takes office on March 31, 2025. His ability to navigate the challenges ahead will be critical in shaping the future of the city.
Public Comment & Next Steps
The South Pasadena City Council will formally approve Hileman’s appointment at its February 19, 2025, meeting. Residents are encouraged to attend and share their thoughts on this important transition in city leadership.
