Glendale has named Patrick Banger as its new city manager, starting January 12, 2026. He was chosen by the City of Glendale council and brings strong experience in city leadership. Banger is currently the town manager of Gilbert, where he led major growth and development efforts.
Banger's track record is not to be glanced over, having rejuvenated Gilbert’s Heritage District to the tune of $387 million in private investment and 748,000 square feet of new development, as per the details shared by the official announcement from City of Glendale. He brings to the table a unique blend, of government acumen and private-sector savvy, accrued over a 24-year period immersed in public service.
Sharing his enthusiasm for the role, Banger recognizes the weight of his new position. "I am deeply honored to have been selected as Glendale's next City Manager and grateful to the Mayor and Council for placing their trust in me," Banger told the City of Glendale. His commitment to innovation shone through in Gilbert, where he laid the groundwork for the city's long-term sustainability program and tackled the integration of artificial intelligence into local governance.
The outgoing city manager, Kevin Phelps, leaves behind a near-decade-long legacy, which Banger is set to ascend from. Phelps has been earmarked for advisory duties, facilitating a smooth transition through the end of January. With Glendale soon unveiling a $90 million state-of-the-art City Hall, Banger's upcoming tenure is poised to align with the city's trajectory of modernity and business-orientated development. His arrival is hoped to complement Glendale's status as an economic hub that has recently lured in more than $3 billion in private sector investments, according to the City of Glendale.
Banger’s educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science in political science and a Master of Arts in management, which underlines his expertise for this crucial leadership position. In addition to his academic background, he has been acknowledged by his peers, receiving the prestigious 2019 John J. 'Jack' Debolski Award for Excellence in City Management by the Arizona City/County Management Association, a testament to his service and dedication to municipal excellence, as per the City of Glendale.
