Gary Gardner

This strategic plan for the City of Desert Hot Springs outlines strategic goals and actionable items to guide budget preparation, performance, program evaluation, and resource allocation from 2025 to 2027. It focuses on eleven key areas: Freeway Corridor, Hotel/Spa Zone, Downtown District, Public Safety (Staffing & Community Policing), Public Safety (Quality of Life), Community Beautification, Community Parks, Community Services, Engagement & Quality of Life, Animal Care and Control, Street/Road Infrastructure, and Financial & Operations. The plan aims to establish the City as a world-class health and wellness destination by maintaining fiscally responsible operations, maximizing efficiency, reducing bureaucracy, and providing exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life and promote growth and prosperity for residents and businesses.

The City of Desert Hot Springs' 2025-2027 Strategic Plan focuses on strategic goals and actionable items to guide budget preparation, performance, program evaluation, and resource allocation. Key areas of focus include improving infrastructure and attracting high-quality development along freeway corridors, revitalizing the Downtown Art and Culture District, enhancing public safety through appropriate staffing levels and community policing, and community beautification. The plan aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, promote growth and prosperity for businesses, and ensure fiscally responsible operations through streamlined processes and exceptional customer service.

The General Plan for the City of Desert Hot Springs outlines a long-term vision through 2040, focusing on balanced growth, complete neighborhoods, and sustainability. It prioritizes land use flexibility, increased shopping and dining options, safer streets, environmental protection, and enhanced recreational opportunities. The plan addresses mobility and infrastructure, aiming for safe, efficient transportation networks and quality public facilities. It emphasizes community engagement, economic development, and the preservation of unique natural resources to ensure a safe, healthy, and prosperous community.

The council meeting included a closed session for a public employee appointment for the City Attorney position. Presentations were given by the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission and Soroptimist House of Hope. The agenda also included recognitions for summer interns and a proclamation for National Hispanic Heritage Month. Consent calendar items included approval of a professional services agreement, an ordinance amendment regarding cannabis businesses, payment registers, approval of a tract map, and approval of meeting minutes. Reports from the City Manager and council members were also given.

The Planning Commission meeting included approvals of agendas and minutes from previous meetings. Public hearings were held for a conditional use permit for an alcohol license and a time extension for a development permit. Reports were given by the chair, Planning Commission members, and the Community Development Director.