Mayor Todd Gloria announced Thursday that Bethany Bezak will serve as San Diego’s new chief operating officer, overseeing day‑to‑day city operations. According to Voice of San Diego, Bezak has been the city’s chief performance and logistics officer since December 2025, managing departments such as transportation, purchasing and contracting, and general services.

Gloria previously dismissed the city’s former COO in February 2025 and temporarily filled the role himself, a decision that drew repeated criticism from the City Council. Council members argued that the lack of a permanent COO contributed to management failures, including a widely reported error on trash bills. The mayor defended his earlier action as a necessary budget reduction and a step toward greater accountability.

In selecting Bezak, Gloria said the decision was his alone and that he had observed her performance for the past 20 months while she served as a department director and member of his executive team. “Talent by definition stands out, and I’ve had my eye on Bethany for quite some time,” he told the outlet.

Several council members have already expressed support for the appointment. Council President Joe LaCava, councilmember Stephen Whitburn, and councilmember Vivian Moreno all praised the choice, with Moreno noting, “It was about time.” The mayor expects the council to confirm Bezak, stating, “I suspect that they know full well that she’s highly capable and extremely well qualified for this position.”

What’s next: The San Diego City Council is scheduled to consider and vote on Bethany Bezak’s appointment on Monday. If confirmed, she will assume the COO role immediately, guiding the city’s operational priorities and addressing the concerns that prompted the mayor’s earlier restructuring.

Sources: voiceofsandiego.org