Palm Springs taps Ontario’s parks chief as new Parks and Recreation Department director

Nicholas Gonzalez, the current recreation and community Services director for the city of Ontario, is set to become Palm Springs’ new director of the Parks and Recreation Department. City Manager Scott Stiles announced the appointment Monday, with Gonzalez scheduled to begin his new role on Dec. 9.

Gonzalez brings 13 years of experience from his tenure with the city of Ontario, where he has served as the director of that city’s Recreation and Community Services Department since 2020. His extensive background in recreational and community services includes overseeing six community centers, a senior center, and programming in more than 30 parks.

In his role in Ontario, Gonzalez manages a $17.5 million annual budget and supervises 37 full-time and 300 part-time employees. He also oversees a municipal golf course.

“Nicholas Gonzalez’s experience in capital projects, master planning and overseeing special events will serve the city extremely well,” Stiles said. “He is also familiar with Palm Springs and loves our community. I am confident his training and qualifications will help him make a positive impact at Palm Springs Parks and Recreation.”

Gonzalez’s career with the city of Ontario began in 2012 as an intern with the Economic Development Agency. He steadily climbed the ranks, becoming an administrative analyst in the City Manager’s Office before being promoted to community life and culture officer in 2018.

In that role, Gonzalez was responsible for overseeing major citywide special events and arts and culture initiatives. This experience is expected to be particularly valuable in Palm Springs, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and numerous community events.

Gonzalez holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of La Verne. He is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the California Park & Recreation Society and the National Recreation and Park Association.

“I’m honored to have been selected to lead the team at Palm Springs Parks and Recreation and I’m looking forward to meeting the Staff and connecting with the community,” Gonzalez said. “Palm Springs prides itself as being one of the most welcoming and inclusive communities in the nation, and I am beyond excited to come work for a city that shares my values and vision.”

Gonzalez replaces former Parks and Recreation Director Yvonne Wise, who left the city amidst ongoing challenges in July.

Gonzalez’s background in overseeing special events and arts initiatives aligns well with Palm Springs’ reputation as a cultural hub. His expertise may prove valuable in maintaining and expanding the city’s recreational and cultural offerings.

In his personal time, Gonzalez enjoys traveling and is a dog owner. He is the proud parent of a miniature pinscher named Jessie, whom he affectionately refers to as his “Forever Friend.”

---