The Hermosa Beach City Council appointed Steve Napolitano as city manager on Dec. 9, voting 3-2 to approve a three-year employment agreement that sets his salary at $270,000 a year and includes CalPERS retirement and standard management benefits.

Tiffany, a staffing presenter for the recruitment, said the city received 56 applications and the recruiter screened candidates to three finalists; department heads and council interviewed the finalists before selecting Napolitano, who had served as interim city manager since May 28, 2025. "If the proposed employment agreement is approved tonight, Mr. Napolitano will be appointed to the city manager position and begin on Dec. 10," Tiffany said.

The appointment drew divided public comment. Supporters praised Napolitano’s local experience and early outreach to businesses. One resident said, "We're lucky to have your experience and welcome aboard." Others criticized the process, questioning transparency and prior severance payments to the former city manager; one commenter asked why the council paid a reported $140,000 severance and endorsed a higher salary for the new hire.

Council debate noted fiscal pressures facing the city in coming years, including projected operating and capital shortfalls and potential county requests for lifeguard and beach maintenance costs. Council members in favor highlighted Napolitano’s regional contacts, saying he would be an asset in negotiating with county agencies and partner cities. Council members opposed to the appointment cited concerns about process and disclosure of search details.

At the roll call, Council members Francois and Keegan and Mayor Seaman voted yes; Council member Jackson and Mayor Pro Tem DeToy voted no. Following the vote, Napolitano thanked the council and said he would "put the city first" in his work as manager.

The employment agreement was described as a three-year term with annual performance reviews. Staff told the council there is no additional fiscal impact beyond the budgeted city manager position for FY 2025–26.