Mayor Anthony Silva this week named Kurt Wilson as Stockton’s new city manager.

Wilson, who is first African American to serve in that position, takes the place of Bob Deis, who retired in November.

Wilson came to Stockton as deputy city manager in 2012 and formerly served as city manager of Ridgecrest, east of Bakersfield.

“I am honored to nominate an extremely qualified individual who represents continuity, fairness, diversity and professionalism,” Silva said. “Working together, our possibilities are endless.”

Silvajoked that Wilson was the least costly option, saving thousands of dollars that would have been spent on another national search.

“Sometimes finding the very best candidate does not require an outside search,” said Councilmember Kathy Miller. “He is familiar with the organization, up to speed on our bankruptcy, and he provides the leadership that the city needs at this time.”

The city tried to hire Coachella Valley City Manager David Garcia in November, but the candidate pulled out of consideration when Mayor Silva announced during a closed session that the hiring was about to happen.

The City Council voted to admonish Silva at a December meeting for what council members say was a Brown Act violation by disclosing Garcia’s candidacy for the position. Dozens came to that meeting to support the mayor.

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