City of Yuma searches for next administrator

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The search for City of Yuma's next administrator is now underway, and city leaders want to hear from the community.

The search comes as Acting City Administrator Jay Simonton is planning to retire in March of 2027, the City says.

The City Administrator is said to serve as the "chief executive officer of the City of Yuma, overseeing the City's day-to-day operations and implementing the policies and direction established by the City Council."

As the search begins, the City says they are encouraging Yuma residents to take a brief survey, which is open now through Friday, July 24, 2026.

"We have 110,000 residents, and they all have a different perspective on life, the things they're struggling with, and the things they like," said Yuma Mayor Doug Nicholls. "There's no other way to gauge that except to elicit that information from the public."

The survey, according to the City, is being facilitated by Mosaic Public Partners, their executive search consultant, and "responses will be collected anonymously and shared with" the Yuma City Council.

To participate in the survey, click here.