The Santa Monica City Council appointed Heidi von Tongeln as the city's next city attorney following a nationwide search.
Von Tongeln has served as interim city attorney since September 2025, replacing outgoing City Attorney Doug Sloan. She brings nearly 20 years of municipal law experience to the position, having joined Santa Monica's City Attorney's Office in 2012 and serving as chief deputy city attorney since 2022.
During her tenure in Santa Monica, von Tongeln has represented the city in litigation and transactional matters while providing advisory support to city boards and commissions.
"Heidi von Tongeln is an incredible leader and a proven advisor," Mayor Caroline Torosis said. "Her experience, professionalism and deep commitment to public service will be a tremendous asset to our community."
Before joining Santa Monica, von Tongeln served as deputy city attorney to three municipalities and assistant legal counsel to several redevelopment agencies with Green, de Bortnowsky & Quintanilla, LLP. She holds a bachelor's degree in English and French and a law degree from Pepperdine University.
"I'm honored by the opportunity to serve as city attorney and grateful for the trust placed in me by the city's leadership," von Tongeln said.
Von Tongeln assumes the position upon formal council approval of her contract on March 24 with an annual salary of $395,352.
Edited by SMDP Staff