About Us

Mayor's Update | July 9, 2025

7/9/2025

Friend,

In the last week of June, the Palm Springs Sister City organization visited its sister city, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. This nonprofit is dedicated to fostering enduring relationships between the two communities, promoting peace through citizen diplomacy, creating educational opportunities for students, and establishing vital business connections.

In the center of the photo: Secretary of Tourism for the State, Maria Guadalupe Robles León, Mayor Trejo and Mayor deHarte meeting prior to the San Miguel y Sus Sabores.

I was particularly struck by San Miguel de Allende's deep commitment to historic preservation. The city has masterfully blended the safeguarding of its unique historical sites and architectural heritage with thoughtful modernization. It stands as a remarkable example of 16th-century Spanish Colonial Baroque architecture and played a crucial role in the Mexican War of Independence.

San Miguel de Allende's historical significance and exceptional preservation efforts led to its designation as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage city. The city's authentic colonial character, cultural integrity, and the superb condition of its historic downtown were all key factors in receiving this prestigious recognition.

The UNESCO historic district spans 64 blocks, encompassing homes, public squares, and iconic buildings like La Parroquia, a 17th-century cathedral renowned for its neo-Gothic design. The district's preserved ambiance and architectural heritage are a testament to the ongoing dedication of city officials who have successfully implemented strict building codes and development limitations. Their ability to artfully blend architectural preservation with modern design is truly impressive.

Rebuild Palm Springs Distributions to Small Business Begin

Many in the community are answering the call to raise funds to support those grappling with damage not covered by their insurance and $160,000 has been raised!

If you are an impacted business in the disaster zone, please contact: Programs@desertbusinessassociation.org for application details.

Charitable Tax-Deductible Donations for Rebuild Palm Springs are being collected online – Click Here. Big Shout Out to the Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs! Seven neighborhoods contributed $21,150 to the project.

The Historic Tennis Club Neighborhood Org $2,500

Old Las Palmas Neighborhood $10,000

Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs $1,000

Tahquitz River Estates $2,000

Sunmor Neighborhood Organization $500

Vista Las Palmas Neighbors Foundation $5,000

Warm Sands Neighborhood Org $150

Note: Only donations made to Rebuild Palm Springs are tax-deductible charitable gifts, as it is the sole 501c(3) charitable nonprofit among the three fundraising programs.

Council actions at the July 9 meeting and my work since our last update.

I appreciate everyone who reached out to acknowledge my ongoing commitment to transparent communication. With this update, I've now sent 308,000 emails since becoming Mayor. My dedication to keeping you informed goes beyond City Hall; I continue to connect directly with residents throughout the city, believing strongly in open communication and accessibility for all, and ensuring you are always updated on my progress.

Interviews and Media Outreach

I was interviewed by KESQ about cooling centers and the city’s financial support of the Coachella Valley Association of Government’s Housing First Program.

Cooling Centers

We recognize the severe health risks posed by temperatures reaching 115 degrees, and our absolute priority is the safety and well-being of our community, especially our most vulnerable residents.

Our primary strategy for heat relief involves the activation of three daytime cooling centers. These centers, located at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center, Palm Springs Public Library and the Access Center on Tahquitz and El Cielo, offer a vital refuge from the extreme heat during their operational hours, which are typically from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm with the library open to 8:00 pm on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The dangers of extreme heat don't disappear when the sun sets, and we are keenly aware of the critical need for overnight cooling solutions, particularly for individuals experiencing homelessness. The city provides overnight relief at Navigation Center where 55 beds are available.

We are committed to finding sustainable solutions to this critical issue and keeping our community safe.

Coachella Valley Association of Government’s Housing First Program

The city supports a collaborative multi-pronged initiative targeting chronically homeless and shelter-resistant individuals through housing and supportive services throughout Coachella Valley. Read More Here. The initiative is aimed at sustainable housing outcomes and reduction in public healthcare and social service costs associated with chronic homelessness.

This week we approved our continued support of this program for three years at an average cost of $130,000 annually. This program has a Valley wide focus and supplements the work being done in Palm Springs.

The support Valley wide is focused on rapid rehousing, temporary placements in apartments and hotel rooms, supportive services such as food distribution, legal aid, and health service linkages.

-In another interview, KESQ asked me about Queer Works and the recent Grand Jury report.

We acknowledge the release of the Riverside County Civil Grand Jury’s report titled "City of Palm Springs: Lacked Proper Procedures for Vetting and Monitoring of Grants" and we reaffirm our ongoing commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and safeguarding public funds.

The report highlights issues related to oversight of public funds granted to Queer Works to develop a Universal Basic Income pilot program. The Grand Jury’s findings echo concerns the City identified and began addressing last year.

When this issue came to light, we recognized the need for more comprehensive funding policies. The City acted swiftly to evaluate internal procedures, initiate policy reforms, and strengthen oversight. Since November 2024, the City has implemented the following actions to enhance oversight and accountability for the management of public funds:

Elimination of Lump-Sum Payments: Grants exceeding $75,000 will no longer be distributed in lump sums. Instead, funds will be paid through a reimbursement process or split into multiple payments contingent on progress reports and financial documentation.

Mandated Regular Reporting: Organizations receiving city funds will be required to submit semi-annual progress reports and invoices. Funds will only be released upon receipt and verification of this documentation.

Enhanced Vetting Process: All organizations requesting funds will be required to meet strict eligibility criteria, including good financial standing and compliance with local, state, and federal laws. This includes submitting financial audits, tax documentation, and verification from multiple oversight bodies.

Independent Audits: Organizations receiving over $75,000 in city funding must submit an independent audit annually to ensure financial transparency.

Designated Oversight: City staff members will be assigned to oversee each grant or contract, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and financial reviews.

Staff Training: City staff responsible for managing grants will undergo enhanced training on best practices for financial oversight, reporting, and fraud prevention.

Meetings

-Meeting with San Miguel de Allende Mayor Trejo to discuss opportunities for both cities to promote culinary education with students, showcase the culture and exposure for each other's brand. We also discussed hosting an art exhibit from San Miguel in Palm Springs.

I learned about UNISCO’s World Heritage List and experienced firsthand how boutique hotels are protected for future generations to appreciate and enjoy while allowing modern architecture to mix historic preservation.

Met with San Miguel tourism industry leaders to exchange best practices and details about our hospitality groups, and our vacation rental ordinance.

Joined Mayor Trejo and Secretary of Tourism to represent Palm Springs at San Miguel y Sus Sabores (the San Miguel Food and Wine Festival). The Executive Chef Pedro Baroso, from The Parker, and Executive Chef David Arreguin, from Tac/Quila, participated in the festival. I was proud of the way they represented Palm Springs. Both Chefs worked with local students to prepare and serve their specialty tastings. Last November Chefs from San Miguel participated in the Palm Springs Food & Wine Festival and students from College of the Desert Culinary School helped cook and serve festival attendees.

Palm Springs restaurateurs, and boutique hotel owners connected with culinary educators, local entrepreneurs, and expats in San Miguel de Allende. These meetings fostered significant dialogue on academic and cultural collaboration, particularly the exchange of teaching strategies between the Universidad Tecnológica de San Miguel de Allende and the new College of the Desert Culinary Institute in Palm Springs. The goal of this partnership is to provide students with the essential skills, adaptability, and global perspective required for an interconnected world.

-The Convention Center Modernization Committee recently met to get updates from its working groups, which include Financing, Capital Improvements & Construction, Urban Planning & Connectivity, and the Tourism Improvement District. The committee is actively working with consultants to develop a framework for modernizing the Convention Center. This effort aims to position Palm Springs as the desert's leading hub for commerce, community, and culture by 2030. The committee expects to share its work with the community very soon.

-I checked in with Dr Abdullah and congratulated him on receiving the $500,000 in critical recovery funding for the American Reproductive Centers. We are thankful to Assemblymember Greg Wallis, for his leadership in securing these much-needed resources which were included in this year’s state budget. I’m also grateful for the collaboration of Speaker Rivas, the budget chairs of both houses, and the unwavering support of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus. In the face of tragedy, this bipartisan effort reflected the best of who we are as Californians. I want to express my sincere gratitude to all those in Sacramento who stood with Palm Springs during this difficult chapter. Their action not only brings vital resources to our city but also sends a clear message of hope and solidarity.

-I provided an update on city activity to the Tourism Industry General Manager Meeting.

-This week’s Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs meeting had great attendance. This meeting is really valuable in facilitating communication between the neighborhood organizations and local government. I provided an update on City Council action with Councilmember Bernstein. The city manager along with Police and Fire also shared updates.

Highlights from the last city council meeting:

Palm Springs City Council Meeting | July 9, 2025

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ms. Senior California 2025 – Holli Kenley.

Key Highlights

College of the Desert Palm Springs Campus Update

Outsourcing of City’s Fleet Maintenance department

Update on Serena Park/PS country club development

Awarded construction Contract for Library Project

Amendment for Construction hours

Public Safety Barriers

PS Resorts Agreement Extension

Introduction of Ordinance regulating Co-Owned Housing Units

Major Decisions and Updates

Presentation by College of the Desert (COD) on Palm Springs Campus Update:

College of the Desert presented an exciting update on the new Palm Springs campus, showcasing major progress and ambitious plans for the community.

A Historic Investment in Education

This is truly a transformative moment for the West Valley. COD's new Palm Springs campus represents a massive $405 million capital investment - the largest higher education infrastructure project in West Valley history. When fully operational, the campus will serve over 3,000 students, faculty, and staff, creating a vibrant educational hub that will function as a year-round economic engine supporting Palm Springs' strategic development goals.

The progress is tangible and moving quickly. Underground utilities and infrastructure work will be completed by mid-September, which is a crucial milestone. The campus support building will be the first to go vertical, and they're planning a "going vertical" ceremony later this year to celebrate this major construction milestone.

Item 1E: Fleet Management Services Agreement with Vector Fleet Management

The city approved a significant contract worth over $10 million with Vector Fleet Management to handle all fleet maintenance and management services. This three-year deal, with options for two additional years, is expected to save the city about $1.4 million annually by reducing labor costs and vehicle downtime, which has been a real problem for public safety vehicles.

Vector will bring in ten dedicated, certified mechanics to work on-site, focusing on keeping vehicles running smoothly and supporting the city's growing electric vehicle fleet. The city made sure to protect the six current employees by offering them the option to transfer to another city job. No one will face pay cuts or layoffs.

Item 1G: Palm Springs Country Club Area (Serena Park) Development

This major housing development is finally moving forward in a big way. The project is being divided into seven smaller sections for builders to develop, which staff called a "huge step forward" for the community.

The developer, Suncal, is paying the city $3.2 million in development fees (up from the original $3 million) specifically to acquire land for open space. The first payment of about $670,000 is coming soon. Construction permits should be ready by year-end, with grading work on the main spine road possibly starting in late August.

The southern part of the property will be developed first, with the areas around Golden Sands and Four Seasons being the final phase. Suncal has been responsive to maintenance needs since taking over last summer, including cleanup, security cameras, and on-site security. The city plans to keep neighbors informed about construction impacts like dust, trucks, and noise. If residents have issues, they can call Steve at (951) 750-4210.

Item 1J: Library Project Construction Contract

The city's library renovation project is ready to begin, but the council made some important changes to ensure enhanced financial oversight. $31,068,506 in project funding was approved ($29,739,439 construction contract, $1,255,067.60 construction management team, $74,000 to provide community workforce agreement administration).

I supported Councilmember Ready's proposal to reduce the construction contingency from 20% to 10%. I asked for project management progress reports every 60 days. All change orders will be reported to the council for transparency and to keep a tight grip on spending. Staff initially worried that reducing the contingency might cause problems since historic buildings often have surprises during demolition, but contractor Swinerton agreed they could work with the lower contingency.

The project has 350 working days (about 17.5 months) to complete, with penalties of $5,400 per day if they go over. Kenny from Accenture will serve as the dedicated full-time project manager to keep everything on track.

Item 1N: Public Safety Barriers

The city approved purchasing new public safety barriers that can be used for events throughout Palm Springs. These new barriers are "see-through," which Councilmember Ready noted will be much easier for pedestrians and businesses to work with during events like Village Fest. The current rail system makes it difficult for people to get through, so these should be a big improvement while still maintaining security.

Item 1O: Amendment to Construction Hours for CW Driver

I asked the council to modify construction summer hours for CW Driver to be more considerate of neighbors. Instead of allowing work until 7 PM, the new hours are 5 AM to 4 PM.

The contractor agreed that working more than 10 hours in the desert heat is both unproductive and unsafe for workers. The restricted summer hours will now run from July 10th through September 30th for both 2025 and 2026. This follows similar early or late-night start approvals for other major projects like Highway 111, the Thompson Palm Springs and the Monarch Apartment Homes.

Item 1Q: Airports "Stay and Play" Program

The council approved the airport's new "Stay and Play" program. The program allows people without airline tickets to access airport restaurants and gate areas to help family and friends, while also providing a nice place for families to watch planes take off and land.

The program includes play areas for kids and creates a leisure destination that serves both residents and visitors in practical ways.

Item 3B: PS Resorts Agreement Amendment

The council approved a restructured agreement with PS Resorts that extends their partnership while increasing the city's financial benefits. I recused from this item because an organization I’m associated with has benefited in the past from PS Resorts support. The originally proposed ten-year contract was changed to a five-year term with an automatic five-year extension unless there's a default or the council votes against it.

PS Resorts, which receives 50% of the resort fee tax revenue, agreed to increase their annual contribution to city events from $225,000 to $250,000 initially, then to $275,000 if the five-year extension kicks in. They support major events like Pride Festival, Festival of Lights Parade, Veterans Parade, and Black History Parade.

Council members praised the unique collaboration that brings together all types of hotels - big, small, and vacation rentals - to work together for the city's benefit. The longer-term contract helps convention center groups that book events years in advance, giving them confidence in guaranteed funding for transportation and rebates that other cities can offer.

PS Resorts will now provide biannual reports to the council on their activities so the community can see the successes they're achieving.

Item 3A: Co-Owned Housing Units Ordinance

The council approved changes to the city's co-owned housing regulations to make enforcement more consistent. The key change states that after a third violation within any 12-month period, the City Manager must suspend the co-owned housing permit for two years.

This language now matches the city's Vacation Rental Ordinance, creating consistency in how the city handles housing regulation violations.

Item 3C: 2025-2026 Legislative Platform Adoption

The council adopted a comprehensive legislative platform that will guide the city's advocacy efforts in Sacramento and Washington D.C. The platform covers six major areas: homelessness and behavioral health, housing, economic development, infrastructure and facilities, public safety and community services, and climate resiliency and sustainability.

The council also gave the City Attorney authority to sign amicus briefs supporting policies that align with the platform, which will help raise the city's profile on important issues.

Upcoming City Council Meetings and Key Agenda Items:

July 21 – Regular Meeting* (*schedule subject to change)

Economic development plan

Pedicab Ordinance

Ramon Rd Eminent Domain Resolution

Developer fee report

Convention Center Management Agreement

Airport Economic Impact Study

Annual Street Lighting/Parkway Maintenance Districts

South Palm Canyon @ Bogert Trail Bridge Project

September 10 – Regular Meeting

Appeal of Approval for Commercial Expansion at 1100 S Palm Canyon

Comprehensive Fee Schedule

Helpful Links & Contacts:

Mayors Website – Read past updates on the Mayors Website

PSPD App - to report law enforcement and non-emergency issues.

MyPalmSprings App - to report issues within City limits, including homelessness, graffiti, and code compliance.

Engagepalmsprings.com - This website was created as a space for residents to share ideas, discuss important topics, ask questions and receive updates about City projects.

To submit public comment, contact the City Clerk's office @ CityClerk@PalmSpringsCA.gov.

For other City-related issues, please visit our website

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Best regards,

Ron deHarte, Mayor of Palm Springs