About Us
3/16/2026
Council Update
Friends,
In my last update, I shared that the Palm Springs Police Department recently unveiled its high-tech drone command center, known as the Coachella Valley Realtime Intelligence Center. This facility marks a major shift toward "Drone as First Responder" technology, significantly changing how the city handles emergencies. The link provided was not accessible to many. Please use this URL https://app.airdata.com/u/cvrtic
Update on Meetings
Get involved today by signing up to volunteer. Let’s give voters the right to vote for mayor!
2/26 -
Traffic Safety Workshop
I attended the community traffic safety workshop hosted by the Palm Springs Police Department Traffic Division and City Engineering. The session focused on the "three E’s" of road safety: Education, Enforcement, and Engineering, to address the urgent need to tackle persistent speeding, reduce collisions, and DUI violations.
To move beyond enforcement alone, engineers look to infrastructure improvements, such as implementing safety measures tailored to each neighborhood's unique needs and increasing crosswalk visibility. By working collaboratively, our community, engineering teams, and public safety officials can help keep our streets safe for everyone.
Bi-Weekly TID Committee
The Palm Springs Tourism Infrastructure District (TID) working group met to review progress on the city’s major tourism initiative. As one of four stakeholder groups established in 2025 to work on the Convention Center Modernization, the TID continues to engage with hotels, small inns, and short-term rentals regarding a proposed 1% revenue assessment.
These funds are critical to the $125–135 million Convention Center Modernization and Connectivity Project, a strategic move to ensure Palm Springs remains competitive with modern technology and walkable hospitality spaces. The entire TID proposal is expected to reach the City Council in the coming months.
2/27 -
I recently touched base with Steve Moses to discuss the voter initiative to restore residents' right to directly elect our Mayor. Steve brings a valuable perspective to this effort, having served on the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) Working Group that helped design our current district-based system in 2018. The CVRA’s recommendations preceded the council’s ultimate approval of the new district elections system.
When the city transitioned to districts, the Council opted for a one-year, rotating mayoral term appointed by its members. This new initiative will restore the direct election of a Mayor by the voters while preserving our established district-based method of electing the five additional members of the City Council.
Volunteer Here to Support the Initiative
2/28 -
Black History Parade & Town Faire
Today, the Palm Springs Black History Committee hosted the city council at its 39th Annual Black History Parade & Town Fair. Residents and visitors gathered to celebrate and reflect on the history and achievements that continue to shape the community.
The parade was led by two historic figures: Grand Marshal Ron Oden, Palm Springs’ first African American Mayor, and Town Fair Grand Marshal Dr. Marcus Funchess, the first African American Superintendent of the Palm Springs Unified School District, who was joined by his wife, Celeste.
A highlight of the event was the P-51 Mustang flyover. Painted with a crimson tail, the aircraft honored the legendary Tuskegee Airmen and their vital contributions to the war effort. The procession featured a vibrant mix of community groups, local leaders, performers, and local youth.
The festivities continued at Downtown Park with a Town Fair filled with live entertainment, delicious food, and family-friendly activities. My thanks go to the Palm Springs Black History Committee for their dedication to organizing this vital community event. It is through these shared moments that we continue to build a stronger, more connected city.
3/1 -
Finding a "We Can" Path Forward With Blue Zones
In my role representing District 3, I’ve always believed that effective leadership requires a "results-oriented" mindset, one that prioritizes the needs of our neighborhoods over rigid ideology. This often means sitting down with those who hold different perspectives to find the "We Can" solutions that move our city forward.
I recently sat down with Chris Ruetz, the re-elected Chair of ONE-PS, to discuss his work with the Blue Zones project in Palm Springs. While I have been a vocal critic of certain Blue Zones strategies in the past, our conversation revealed several areas where our visions for the city’s infrastructure and quality of life clearly align.
A Focus on Shared Priorities
Though I maintain reservations regarding the broader Blue Zones framework, this dialogue was a productive evolution of my perspective. We focused on three shared priorities for the City Council:
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Launching an ambitious tree-planting program to provide essential shade and natural beauty.
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Pedestrian-first streets and restructuring our roadways to prioritize safety and encourage outdoor activity.
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Implementing "cool city" solutions to combat urban heat islands and lower temperatures across our neighborhoods.
By focusing on these mutual goals, specifically walkability and tree canopies, we can bridge old divides and deliver tangible results. I look forward to collaborating with Chris and Blue Zones on these specific infrastructure improvements. It is through this kind of pragmatic, collaborative problem-solving that we will ensure Palm Springs remains a world-class place to live.
3/5 -
Convention Center Modernization Meeting
Today, I attended a productive working lunch with our convention center design team, an impressive collective of experts in architecture, urban development, and landscape design. Following their recent consultations with the Agua Caliente Tribe, regional tourism leaders, and city staff, this meeting served as a vital touchpoint to align our goals before the team begins their work. Individual Zoom briefings will be held with other City Council members.
Our dialogue balanced the practical with the aspirational. We moved from "blue sky" concepts that push the boundaries of modern design to the specific, granular details that will ensure the project’s success. Throughout, my directive remained clear: this must be uniquely Palm Springs. We aren't just building a functional venue; we are creating a landmark that honors our history and reflects our community's distinct character.
Meeting with CEO & COO of Tenet Healthcare Corporation
Today, I sat down with Dr. Saum Sutaria (Chairman & CEO) and Lisa Foo (EVP & COO). As Tenet's leadership team, we dove into the city’s current landscape and shared what we’re looking forward to in the coming year.
Convention Center Stakeholders Listening Workshop
Stakeholders and members of the Convention Center Modernization workgroup recently convened with the project design team to establish the guiding principles for our modernization and urban walkway connectivity project. This collaborative session ensures that the upcoming work by our architects, urban planners, and marketing partners remains deeply rooted in the needs and aspirations of the Palm Springs community.
Central to this effort is the concept of Convergence, a pillar of our 2030 Vision. By the end of the decade, the Palm Springs Convention Center will serve as the desert’s premier hub where commerce, community, and culture intersect.
To realize this vision, we will:
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Innovate: Lead with immersive technology and sustainable, flexible spaces that accommodate diverse gatherings and exceed modern expectations.
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Connect: Create a lively, pedestrian-friendly district that celebrates our mid-century architectural heritage and local art, offering seamless access to the city’s dining and retail core.
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Integrate: Develop a cohesive campus with exceptional accommodations and cutting-edge venues that elevate every event.
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Prosper: Drive regional economic growth and tax revenue through strategic partnerships that foster cultural exchange and benefit local residents.
More than just a venue, this project will be the beating heart of Palm Springs, a place where innovation and community unite to ensure our city remains a premier global destination.
3/6 -
I had a great time catching up with Matt Grigoryan today. We first sat down a year ago, so seeing the incredible progress Creative Compass Pro has made since then is fantastic.
Matt’s success in branding and media production is a perfect example of the talent driving our local economy. Even in a challenging year for entrepreneurs, his agency’s momentum shows what is possible here in Palm Springs. I’m sincerely happy for his success and can’t wait to see what he does next.
Finding the Path Forward: Modernizing Public Safety While Supporting Our Local Economy
The safety of our community is non-negotiable. As we look toward the future of Palm Springs, modernizing Fire Stations 1, 3, and 5 is a top priority. Our firefighters, first responders, and residents deserve a state-of-the-art facility that reflects modern standards and provides the tools necessary to protect our lives and property. I am a steadfast proponent of this project; it is a vital investment in the core services that keep District 3 and our entire city resilient.
Listening to Our Downtown Heartbeat
Effective leadership, however, requires listening to the heartbeat of our downtown: our small business and property owners. Recently, the "Block 200 Club," led by Matt Bousquette, raised significant concerns regarding the proposed site at 261 North Indian Canyon Drive. This location currently serves as a critical parking artery, supporting over 4,000 customer visits per week for businesses along the 200 and 300 blocks of North Palm Canyon Drive.
The concerns raised by these merchants are both valid and urgent. For many, this parking lot isn't just asphalt; it is the lifeblood of their operations. Our local businesses have expressed a clear need for more transparent engagement and a comprehensive analysis of how this specific site choice might impact the economic viability of our downtown core.
The "We Can" Philosophy
Supporting our firefighters and supporting our local merchants are not mutually exclusive goals. A true "We Can" city philosophy dictates that we tackle these challenges through collaborative problem-solving, avoiding compromises that leave one side behind.
Every stakeholder I have spoken with, including the members of the Block 200 Club, remains fully committed to modernizing our fire infrastructure. The discussion isn’t about whether we should build, but how we do so while protecting the economic ecosystem that makes Palm Springs thrive.
My Commitment to You
I am highly confident that by working together, city staff, fire leadership, and our business community, we will find a solution. My commitment to you is to ensure we break ground on a world-class Fire Station 1 while simultaneously preserving the vital parking and access points our local businesses depend on.
We will deliver on public safety and protect the livelihoods of the neighbors who make our district great.
Honoring an Icon: The Marilyn 100 Centennial
In the summer of 2026, the world celebrates what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday. The Marilyn 100 Centennial Celebration invites fans to Palm Springs for a four-day immersive experience (May 29–June 1) filled with music, culinary delights, and city-wide festivities.
The heart of the event takes place on May 30 beneath the "Forever Marilyn" statue, where we aim to set a Guinness World Record for the most look-alikes in one location. For a $75 registration fee, participants receive an "Icon Kit" containing everything they need to transform into the starlet: the signature white dress, a blonde wig, cat-eye sunglasses, and a martini glass.
By joining us, you’re not just celebrating a film legend; you’re supporting her legacy as a "trailblazing ally," with the event benefiting LGBTQ+ advocacy. Be a part of history and register now.
3/8 -
48th Congressional District
With Congressman Calvert moving to a newly aligned district, the race for the 48th Congressional District is wide open. The district, which spans from Escondido and Oceanside through to Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley, has drawn a crowded field: 14 Democrats and one Republican have officially filed to run.
I’ve been making an effort to meet the candidates personally. I’ve crossed paths with small business owner Brandon Riker several times, and just today, I had the chance to meet San Diego Councilmember Marni von Wilpert. Other Democrats in the running include local officials such as Corinna Contreras (Vista City Council) and Mike Schaefer (Board of Equalization), as well as Abel Chavez, Whitney Shanahan, Ferguson Porter, Jerlilia Ryans, and Ammar Campa-Najjar. On the Republican side, San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond stands as the sole candidate.
3/9 -
Joint Powers Authority
Following my appointment to the JPA this past January, I recently attended a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) orientation led by Scott White, President and CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs (VGPS), and Davis Meyer, VP of Government & Industry Relations. I am honored to join the Executive Committee, a leadership body of elected officials from Riverside County and nine member cities. The JPA serves as the vital governance structure for VGPS, overseeing the sales, marketing, and tourism initiatives that drive our region's primary economic engine.
Palm Springs Active Transportation Subcommittee (ATC) Meeting –
City Council recently appointed the Mayor Pro Tem and me as liaisons to the Sustainability Commission’s Active Transportation Subcommittee (ATC). I attended their recent meeting and was encouraged by the high level of engagement with city staff regarding bike lane improvements. The ATC is dedicated to enhancing pedestrian and cycling infrastructure by collaborating with leadership on safety, project mapping, and wayfinding. Additionally, the subcommittee is exploring ways to secure federal funding for citywide safety and regional mobility projects.
Sustainability Commission’s Active Transportation Subcommittee meeting in City Hall on March 9, 2026.
3/10 -
Agenda Review with the City Manager and Assistant City Manager.
3/11 -
In a 2003 citywide election, Ron Oden was elected Mayor of Palm Springs
Ron Oden made history as the first openly gay African American man elected mayor of an American city. It was a privilege to connect today with former Mayor Ron Oden and congratulate him as the new Chair of the College of the Desert Board of Trustees representing Area 3.
I am deeply grateful for Ron’s continued guidance and his long-standing friendship. Our conversation was both productive and insightful as we discussed the progress of the new COD West Campus and the upcoming voter initiative to restore the community’s right to directly elect their mayor. We talked about maintaining the existing district-based method of electing the five (5) members of the City Council and adding a 6th seat to the City Council to restore the direct election of a Mayor by the voters.
Ron’s remarkable legacy of civic service in Palm Springs began in 1992, when he chaired the revival of the Palm Springs Human Rights Commission, and it is an honor to continue working alongside him to shape our city's future.
Former Mayor and new Chair of the College of the Desert Board of Trustees.
Palm Springs City Council Meeting | March 11, 2026
Key Highlights
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Leadership Coachella Valley program update.
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Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) annual action plan.
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Discussion of a new affordable housing project.
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Ramon Road Widening
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Halle Forest Residence Historic Designation
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Hotel Incentive Program Amendment
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Dream Hotel Settlement Amendment
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Orchid Tree Hotel Update
Proclamations
QVC Day (March 2, 2026): Recognized to celebrate the national broadcast from Palm Springs, showcasing the city's culture and design to millions of viewers.
Michael Childers Day (March 10, 2026): Honoring decades of artistic excellence and philanthropic leadership, specifically a concert series that raised nearly $2 million for local organizations.
Major Items and Outcomes
Item 1H — On-Call Traffic Signal Maintenance: This amendment provides additional funding for signal repairs necessitated by 13 signal pole knockdowns caused by collisions and weather over the last seven months. Council members noted that improving traffic safety could eventually reduce these recurring infrastructure costs. Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 1I — Mizel Center Lease Extension: The council approved a lease extension for the Mizel Center at 480 South Sunrise Way. The center uses Measure J funds to expand its kitchen capacity and provides hundreds of meals annually to local residents.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 1M — Mohawk Commercial Flooring Amendment: A five-year contract extension was approved to continue using this vendor for city flooring projects. Staff indicated they intend to rebid the contract within the next year after completing current projects in the queue.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 1R — Airport Escalator Contract: A contract with Schindler was approved for new escalators at Palm Springs International Airport (PSP). Installation is scheduled to begin in July 2026 and be completed by September 2026. Council approved the item, subject to a contingency that the specific construction schedule be formally included in the contract.
Outcome: Approved 5-0 with schedule contingency.
Item 1S — Airport Federal Inspection Station (FIS) Funding: The Council discussed a $1 million Measure J earmark required to staff a customs station. PSP is laying the groundwork to expand international arrival capabilities. Measure J funds generated from airport operations must be used for airport projects, and these funds will assist in securing the future Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility, with early assessments underway and coordination in progress with federal agencies and regional partners. Staff clarified that while this money is for FIS salaries and benefits, the city will not actually hire anyone until international flights are secured. Funds will support an auxiliary station and allow the city to start international service with just 2–3 flights a week rather than waiting for daily service. However, the Mayor also cautioned against using Measure J funds for long-term labor costs rather than physical infrastructure. Read About Airport Projects Here.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Major Infrastructure & Development
Item 1N — Ramon Road Widening Project: The council approved a professional services agreement for the widening of Ramon Road, a major bridge renovation slated to begin in December 2026. The project will take approximately 24 months and will maintain two lanes of travel in each direction for the majority of construction. Staff is coordinating a 9-month communication plan with Cathedral City to mitigate business disruptions.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 2A — Halle Forest Residence Historic Designation: The 1930s Spanish Colonial Revival home at 608 South Indian Trail was designated a Class 1 Historic Site. While the designation was initiated by the city following a major alteration request, the owners have been cooperative and expressed a desire to remain "good stewards" while making the home livable for their growing family.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 3A — Hotel Incentive Program Amendment: This ordinance introduces mandatory enforcement for hotel operators who become delinquent in paying Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). It also clarifies caps on total incentives and corrects minor typographical errors in the municipal code.
Outcome: Passed First Reading; 5-0.
Item 3C — Dream Hotel Settlement Amendment: To address public concerns about stalled projects, the Council approved a First Amendment with stricter accountability milestones. The agreement now includes nine milestone dates, up from the original three, beginning with site investigative work and ending with the hotel’s opening.
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Construction Drawings Submitted to City at 80% March 31, 2026
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Site Investigative Work Begins March 30, 2026
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Complete Model Room April 30, 20265
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Site Remediation Start April 30, 2026
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GMP Guaranteed Maximum Price July 30, 2026
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Financing Complete September 30, 2026
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Construction Start October 1, 2026
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Construction Complete December 30, 2028
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Opening December 31, 2028
Staff noted that the developer is on target to submit 80% construction drawings by March 31, 2026.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 3D — Orchid Tree Hotel Update: Staff provided a status report confirming that the developer submitted a complete entitlement package on February 11, 2026. This triggers a tight 8-month deadline for the city to complete all public reviews, aiming for a certificate of occupancy by June 2030. The Council clarified that no extension was being granted; they are simply holding the developer to the existing agreement with a target opening in June 2030.
Outcome: Received and filed; no vote required.
Item 2B — Housing & Community Services: Community Development Block Grant- 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan: The city expects to receive Federal Community Development Block Grants. Funds are allocated toward residential rehabilitation for low-income homeowners and legal assistance for tenants facing landlord disputes. Discussion focused on whether to use the full 20% allowed for administration to preserve the city's general fund.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
Item 3B — New Affordable Senior Housing: The council committed $3 million toward a 72-unit affordable senior housing project at 1555 East Alejo Road. A partnership between the United Methodist Church and Wakeland Housing, the development will serve low-income residents aged 55+ and will include a preference for 7 veteran units. Construction is expected to be completed around 2029.
Outcome: Approved 5-0.
In Memoriam
The meeting was closed in honor of Jim Jones, a former Councilmember and instrumental figure in the Deep Well neighborhood and city-wide neighborhood organizations in the early 2000s. Mayor Pro Tem Reddy described him as a "fighter for the people" who ensured tax dollars were spent efficiently.
Upcoming Agendas and Initiatives
March 25 – Regular Meeting
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Visit Greater Palm Springs Annual Update – Presentation
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Historic Designation, 1752 Ridge Road – Public Hearing
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Tow Ordinance Update – Business & Legislative
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Review of Prescott Preserve Fire – Business & Legislative
April 8 – Regular Meeting
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Plaza Theatre Update – Presentation
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Hotel Incentive Agreement, Cactia Hotel – Public Hearing
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Hotel Incentive Agreement, Terra Palm Springs – Public Hearing
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Library Naming Rights – Business & Legislative
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Discussion of City Mayoral Position – Business & Legislative
April 22 – Regular Meeting
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Blue Zones Palm Springs Update – Presentation
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CDBG Annual Action Plan, Hearing #2 – Public Hearing
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Hotel Incentive Agreement, Alcazar Palm Springs – Public Hearing
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Report of Employee Vacancies (AB 2561) – Business & Legislative
May 12 – Regular Meeting
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Emergency Operations Update – Presentation
Ron deHarte
Palm Springs City Councilmember, District 3
27th Mayor