Breaking: Rebecca Terrazas-Baxter to be appointed as Next Brawley City Manager

BRAWLEY — Following a months-long recruitment process, the City of Brawley has selected Rebecca Terrazas-Baxter as its next City Manager. The announcement was made Tuesday by city officials, with Terrazas-Baxter expected to officially begin her new role on July 21, 2025.

Currently serving as the Assistant County Executive Officer for the County of Imperial, Terrazas-Baxter brings over 20 years of public service experience across federal, state, and local government. She joined the County in 2015 and previously served as Deputy CEO, where she was involved in high-profile regional initiatives, including efforts around Lithium Valley, economic development, and intergovernmental affairs.

“Brawley holds a special place in the heart of the Imperial Valley, and I am truly honored to have the opportunity to serve as its City Manager,” Terrazas-Baxter said in a statement. “Public service is more than a career to me — it’s a calling — and I’m excited to work hand-in-hand with the City Council, dedicated staff, and the amazing people who call Brawley home.”

Before working for the County, she spent nearly a decade in legislative affairs, representing the region at both the state and federal levels. In addition to her government service, she has been actively involved in local civic organizations, including her current role as Membership Director for MANA de Imperial Valley and her past service as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Imperial.

The Brawley City Council is scheduled to ratify her three-year contract — which includes a starting salary of $192,000 — during its regular meeting on July 1. Councilmembers say they are confident in her ability to lead the city forward, highlighting her experience, leadership, and long-standing ties to the region.

“Rebecca brings the knowledge, network, and leadership we need as we continue addressing the city’s needs while working collaboratively with agencies across the Valley,” the Council noted in a joint statement.

Terrazas-Baxter will be the first woman to serve as Brawley’s City Manager in over a decade.