EL CENTRO, CA – April 17, 2025 — The El Centro City Council has appointed Michael Crankshaw to fill the vacant seat on the City Council. The appointment was made during a Special Meeting held on April 16, with Crankshaw receiving a unanimous 4-0 vote.
“I’m honored to have been selected to serve the residents of El Centro,” Crankshaw said. “This city has played a major role in my personal and professional life, and I look forward to giving back through dedicated and thoughtful service.”
Crankshaw brings more than three decades of public service experience to the Council, with a distinguished career in law enforcement and higher education. He served as Police Commander for the City of El Centro from 1988 to 2013 and went on to become Chief of Police for the City of Brawley. His leadership roles also include serving as Interim Police Chief for the City of Imperial and Interim Academy Director at Imperial Valley College. He has been an adjunct professor at Imperial Valley College since 1995.
Crankshaw also holds a strong academic background. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Administration of Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix. His education also includes coursework in general education and law enforcement at Imperial Valley College, advanced law enforcement training at the University of Virginia in Quantico, VA, and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and West Point Leadership program.
“Michael Crankshaw is a respected leader with deep roots in our region and a lifetime of service to the Imperial Valley,” said Mayor Pro Tem Sonia Carter. “His experience in public safety and education will bring valuable insight to the Council as we continue working toward a stronger future for El Centro.”
Crankshaw will be officially sworn in at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 21, during a Special Meeting in the Council Chambers. During the same meeting, the Council will also conduct a reorganization to select a new mayor for the remainder of the year. The swearing-in ceremony is open to the public.
