Desert Hot Springs Native Doria Wilms Leads Her Hometown as New City Manager

In Desert Hot Springs, Doria Wilms, a lifelong resident and proud native, is stepping into a role that blends her personal roots with professional purpose—as the city’s new city manager.

NBC Palm Springs' Alantra Campos, also a Desert Hot Springs native, sat down with Wilms to explore her journey and the transformative vision she brings to the city she’s always called home.

From walking the halls of Edward L. Wensloff Elementary School to playing softball at Wardman Park, Wilms' connection to the city runs deep. Now, she brings that hometown pride to city council chambers, aiming to lead with authenticity and purpose.

“It’s such a prestigious role,” Wilms said. “But I thought, what do I have that others before me didn’t have? It’s passion. It’s drive. And it’s knowing what I don’t know—and who my subject matter experts are.”

Wilms' top priority is fostering stronger connections between City Hall and the community. “My goal is to bridge that gap between government and the residents… to create an environment where they feel comfortable to come here, get answers, and impact change—because they are the ones we serve,” she added.

She also acknowledged the misconceptions often placed on her hometown and expressed her desire to reframe the narrative with real progress, community engagement, and pride.

Tune in to NBC Palm Springs at 6 p.m. to hear more from Wilms about how Desert Hot Springs shaped her leadership and her mission to lead lasting change.

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