HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023 Annual Report - Goals and Initiatives
City of Palm Desert
2023 Annual Report
City Council Goals and Initiatives
Table of Contents
2023 City Council Goals and Initiatives ...................................................................................... 2
Cal State University Palm Desert Campus: ............................................................................ 2
Desert Willow Strategy: .......................................................................................................... 3
Business Recruitment: ............................................................................................................ 4
North Sphere Planning: .......................................................................................................... 5
Mall Redevelopment: .............................................................................................................. 5
Broadband Master Plan: ......................................................................................................... 6
Environmental Initiatives: ........................................................................................................ 7
North Sphere Park: ................................................................................................................. 7
Public Safety Improvements: .................................................................................................. 8
Active Transportation Projects: ............................................................................................... 9
Capital Projects .........................................................................................................................10
City Manager’s Office ................................................................................................................11
Development Services ..............................................................................................................13
Economic Development ............................................................................................................15
Finance .....................................................................................................................................17
Public Works .............................................................................................................................19
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 2
2023 City Council Goals and Initiatives
Cal State University Palm Desert Campus:
Advocate for the creation of a Cal State University Palm Desert Campus or other education related
uses on the land donated by the City for this purpose.
Accomplishments:
• Secured $79 million in State funding dedicated to new building improvements at the Palm
Desert campus.
• As a follow up to securing the $79 million in funding, a press release, media interviews,
and thank you letter to local leaders was completed in July 2022.
• Priority One Coachella Valley (P1CV) and City staff remained in contact with leadership
at CSUSB-PDC to determine timing for improvements and construction of the new Student
Services Building.
Next Steps:
• Staff met with Strategies 360 (S360) to determine what next steps P1CV should take to
ensure additional funding for the school’s expansion. S360’s recommended a “soft
advocacy” approach especially as the State balances its’ budget for the 2023 fiscal year
and continues to build relationships with state representatives to have more funds
allocated to the school site. P1CV extended a contract with S360 for the remainder of
2023 to advocate at the state level and ensure the $79 million dollar allocation is secure.
• To further build relationships with state representatives, City staff have met with local
representatives from the State Assembly including Assemblymembers Wallis and Garcia,
and Lt. Governor Kounalakis.
• The Mayor and an alternate Councilmember, along with the City Manager and Economic
Development Director, have been selected to participate in the “Palm Desert Student
Services Building Community Advisory Committee" which is charged with guiding the
efforts on new building improvements at the campus. The final building proposal includes
a 40,000 sq. ft. building, new clock tower, landscape, and recreational amenities.
• The new Student Services building was approved by the CSU Board of Trustees in
September 2023, and the preparation of construction drawings is underway. Construction
plans must be reviewed and approved by the Division of the State Architect prior to
commencing construction.
• The Student Services Advisory Committee is also exploring fundraising and sponsorships
for other site improvements including a new clock tower.
• Construction is anticipated to take place from summer 2025 through the end of 2027 with
building occupancy in 2028.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 3
Desert Willow Strategy:
Develop a strategy for the disposition and development of the remaining Desert Willow properties.
Accomplishments:
• Final approval of the DSRT Surf project resulting in the sale of “Parcel B” to Desert Wave
Ventures for development of a 6-acre surf lagoon, amenities, and residential villa units.
• Obligated DSRT Surf to develop an overflow parking lot on a portion of “Parcel E” to
support the DSRT Surf project. Development of this lot will also include the installation of
carports to support the installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels.
• Staff received direction to proceed with the acquisition of Parcel A for future governmental
use at the Desert Willow property.
• The City and SARDA approved a Purchase and Sales Agreement for the City to acquire
Parcel A for the purposes of constructing a public parking lot to support on-going
operations at Desert Willow Golf Resort and open Space.
• The City and SARDA approved a Licensing Agreement to allow for the construction of a
public parking lot prior to acquisition of the land by the City. The agreement is in place
until October 2025.
• Pending Riverside County Oversight Board approval, the City is prepared to acquire
Parcel A in Q2 2024.
• Contract executed with The Altum Group (TAG) for the design of a new parking lot, with
future expansion for parks/open space, on Parcel A of Desert Willow. The final design was
completed in September 2023 and a contract for the construction of the project was
awarded to Jacobbson Engineering Construction, Inc. The parking lot was substantially
completed and open for use on December 29, 2023.
• Reviewed the Surplus Land Act (SLA) process and its implications on future development
of the remaining vacant parcels (Parcels A, C, D, and E) at Desert Willow.
• On June 23, 2023, the City Council adopted a series of Resolutions declaring the
remaining vacant parcels at Desert Willow (Parcels C, D, and E) as surplus and to be
disposed of through the SLA process.
• Executed a contract with Streetsense to conduct a market study on the remaining vacant
parcels for their highest and best use.
• A Market study has been completed and included with the Notice of Availability for Desert
Willow Parcels C, D, and E, with the intent of encouraging proposals to meet the market
demand study.
• The Notice of Availability for Parcels C, D, and portions of E was released in July 2023.
That notice closed in the first week of September 2023.
Next Steps:
• The City is working through the SLA process with a developer for acquisition of Parcels
C, D, and E and anticipates completing the SLA process in Q1 2024 pending approval by
the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 4
Business Recruitment:
Develop a plan to identify and recruit retail, entertainment, and other businesses that will
contribute to Palm Deserts existing unique shopping and entertainment offerings.
Accomplishments:
• Utilizing the Economic Development Subcommittee staff received guidance and refined
the intent of this City Council goal to:
o Identify and recruit retailer offerings that expand upon, and are compatible with,
the higher-end apparel, goods/wares, and restaurants, located in the City.
o Identify and recruit activity-based offerings for the broader range of residents,
students, families, and visitors.
o Ensure that the City’s recruitment strategy remains on-brand for Palm Desert and
that the City expands on its unique offerings and not just pursue “anywhere in
America” retailers.
• Staff attended the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Conference in May
2023 to meet with three retail recruitment strategy firms and have received scope of
services from each of the firms.
• Released a Request for Proposals to solicit for business recruitment services, which
closed on September 11, 2023.
• Awarded contract to “The Retail Coach” (TRC) on November 16, 2023, for business
recruitment services. The contract term is through 2024 with an option for the City to
extend it one additional year.
• Initial kick-off meeting held in December 2023 with direction given to develop a “gap
analysis,” trade-area psychographics profile and competing community analysis. Direction
was also given to TRC to identify potential regional (surrounding Southern California
counties) and fly-market operators that are in expansion mode and which may be viable
businesses in Palm Desert.
Next Steps:
• Development of the plans identified above is expected to take 9-12 months and will include
outreach to the local business community, councilmembers, staff, and residents. The plan
is expected to be in front of the City Council prior to September 2024.
• Receipt and review of gap analysis and potential national and regional business
recruitment strategy Q2 2024.
• Staff and TRC are strategizing on a plan that includes meeting with potential operators at the
upcoming ICSC Conferences in Monterey, CA (March 2024) and Las Vegas, NV (May 2024).
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 5
North Sphere Planning:
Analyze the recommendations of the CBRE study for potential changes in land use patterns in
the North Sphere.
Accomplishments:
• Awarded contract for Objective Design Standards for residential and mixed-use
development and began holding community engagement meetings, and Study Sessions
with the Planning Commission which implements CBRE housing goals.
• Initiated zoning ordinance amendment to modify land use table, including a change to
make personal storage facilities discretionary land uses as recommended by the CBRE
and 2023 broker’s report.
Next Steps:
• Staff posted a Request for Proposal (RFP) to secure a consultant to amend the University
Neighborhood Specific Plan modifying land uses including residential density,
commercial, streetscapes, circulation elements, and a regional park.
• Preparation of an RFP to conduct a market study for the area north of Frank Sinatra to
determine the types of retail users that could be supported in the area.
Mall Redevelopment:
Conduct market and land use planning studies to evaluate options for adaptive re-use of the Mall
resulting in a Mall Master Plan.
Accomplishments:
• Secured contracts with CBRE for on-going real estate advisory services including tenant
relations at the mall property and on-going coordination with perspective developers.
• The City Council adopted a resolution requiring coordinated development efforts for the
mall properties by requiring the preparation of a Specific Plan.
• Conducted a market study for the mall property.
• Hosted a “developers forum” in June 2022, promoting the mall sites potential for
redevelopment. The recording of the forum is on the City’s website and YouTube and has
reached more than a dozen large development firms.
• Executed a contract with Streetsense for a market demand study which was completed in
2022 and updated in 2023 for the site related to multi-family demand.
• Developed a relationship with JLL Mall Manager staff, Gregory Millsap, to monitor the
mall’s leases and management.
• City acquired a 7.4-acres parcel inclusive of the former Sear’s building and parking areas.
• Had contractors on-site to assess needed maintenance and repairs to the Sear’s building.
• Executed a letter of clarification to mall management to establish City’s contribution, as a
property owner, to the common area maintenance obligations.
• Met with mall management on June 27, 2023, to discuss a myriad of maintenance issues and
obligations related to graffiti abatement, and general property and landscape maintenance.
• Met with Pacific Retail Capital Partners (PRCP) to discuss their possible acquisition of the mall
and to ensure the City’s and PRCP vision for use and redevelopment of the site are aligned.
• Monitored the sale of the mall properties to PRCP in November 2023 and performed
several media releases and interviews regarding the mall sale.
• City staff remains engaged with CBRE to maintain tenant relationships, identify additional
tenants, and assist through any redevelopment discussions.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 6
Next Steps:
• City staff are looking at short-term specialty leasing options (leasing of City-owned parking
areas) to recoup monies spent on CAM charges.
• Staff are engaged weekly with PRCP to better understand their timelines for operating the
property. Currently, PRCP is establishing management protocols to work with existing
businesses and the site and working on new leases for the property. A new General
Manager is in place and full ownership and operations are now under PRCP.
• Anticipate more robust discussions about redevelopment possibilities between the City
and PRCP in Q2/Q3 2024. Once a redevelopment strategy is agreed to, in principle,
entitlements for a Specific Plan and Environmental documents will be submitted for City
Council and public consideration. The anticipated timeline for this is Q4 2024/Q1 2025.
Broadband Master Plan:
Develop a Broadband Master Plan that assesses whether and how the City can enhance
connectivity for businesses and residents, while working with, and factoring in the work
accomplished by federal, state, and regional resources.
Accomplishments:
• Executed an agreement with HR Green to develop a broadband study.
• HR Green:
o Conducted community, staff, and City Council surveys.
o Held stakeholder meetings with educational institutions, broadband providers, and
regional organizations (CVEP/CVAG).
• Led a broadband Study Session for the City Council.
• Attended a State of California hosted regional broadband event.
• Attended monthly State of California Public Utility Commission (PUC) meetings on the
State’s Broadband efforts and grants.
• Joined a National League of Cities boot camp for federal broadband grants.
• Direction provided to HR Green to solicit responses from potential partners for build-out
and operation of broadband services.
• A Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) was posted on November 8, 2023, and
elicited one (1) response from Arcadis.
• An interview with Arcadis was held on December 15, 2023, to determine the likelihood
and feasibility of a partnership for build-out and operations of a broadband network.
Arcadas stated that they are interested but they will need time to do their own market
research into the area once the City’s master plan is adopted.
• A second City Council Study Session with HR Green was held on January 11, 2024.
Next Steps:
• Final HR Green study to be released in February 2024.
• Anticipated City Council adoption of the Broadband Master Plan is March 2024.
• Discussions with Arcadis to resume in Q2 2024.
• Research grant opportunities and apply as appropriate.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 7
Environmental Initiatives:
Implementation of the 5-year plan of Environmental Initiatives including the following:
environmentally friendly landscaping, green building materials, solar, alternative fuel vehicles for
the City fleet, water and energy conservation, and recycling. Work with the Resources
Preservation and Enhancement Committee to implement initiatives.
Accomplishments:
• Implemented Environmental Initiatives Plan and began submitting quarterly reports to City
Council.
Next Steps:
• Work with staff from various departments and the Resource Preservation and
Enhancement Committee to evaluate and implement initiatives.
• Continue quarterly reporting on Environmental Initiatives Plan to the City Council.
• Hire a consultant to conduct GHG Inventory and prepare a formal Climate Action Plan.
North Sphere Park:
Gather community input, design, and build a community and regional park in North Palm Desert.
Accomplishments:
• Community Open House meetings were held on December 3, 2022, January 14, 2023,
and August 5, 2023.
• Conceptual design developed and presented to the Parks & Recreation Committee,
Planning Commission, Architectural Review Commission, Resource Preservation and
Enhancement Committee, Cultural Arts Committee, HOAs in the North Sphere and the
City Council. Initial feedback incorporated into design.
• Focus meetings held with stakeholders: Desert Recreation District, YMCA, Desert Sands
USD, Palm Springs USD, dog parks, soccer, pickleball, baseball, and flag football.
• Final conceptual design and cost estimating/budget was presented and approved by the
City Council in December 2023.
Next Steps:
• Final construction plans for the north Palm Desert Community Park are to be completed
in Q4 2024.
• Planning consultant to work with Interwest on regional park location (Portola & Frank
Sinatra).
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 8
Public Safety Improvements:
Explore new technology, review budgets, and gain efficiency for improved public safety services.
Conduct a review of current law enforcement and fire services contracts.
Accomplishments:
• In Q1 2023, the Council awarded a design contract for the 4th fire station, FS 102.
• The City Council approved an agreement for the 4th fire station construction management
and independent estimator. FS 102 is on track to being brought online in fall 2025.
• In Q2 2023, the Council awarded a contract for Phase 2 of the Automated Licensed Plater
Recognition (ALPR) system, which will increase the total number of cameras to 102.
• In Q3 2023, Phase 2 of the ALPR system was fully installed and a new three-year
agreement for law enforcements services with Riverside County Sheriff’s Department was
approved by the City Council.
• In Q3 2023, the City Council received an update on the design progress for FS 102.
• In Q4 2023, the City Council approved phase 3 of the ALPR system, which focuses on the
El Paseo business district.
• The City Manager’s Office hired an in-house Emergency Services Coordinator to refine
and enhance the City’s preparedness efforts.
• City staff and the Emergency Services Coordinator responded to tropical storm Hilary in
a proactive and effective manner. Currently, staff is working on the FEMA reimbursement
following the Presidents declaration of a federal disaster.
Next Steps:
• Update the City Council on metrics of the ALPR system and Palm Desert Sheriff staffing
model. The City’s transparency portal is published monthly and included in the Weekly
Administrative Report.
• Update the City Council on the City’s enhanced emergency services program scheduled
for Spring 2024.
• Review calls for service, response times, and police staffing level additions through the
Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget process.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 9
Active Transportation Projects:
Analyze relevant studies to develop a 5-year Active Transportation Project plan that includes
opportunities to enhance CV Link, PD Link/bike lanes, and incorporate these projects into the 5-
year CIP budget.
Accomplishments:
• Completed conceptual plans for Walk and Roll Phase II.
• Began the conceptual plans of Walk & Roll (Phase III).
• Commissioned the redesign of various aspects of PD Link Phase II.
• Held Community meetings to receive input on the Haystack Traffic Calming project.
• Increased communication frequency and City expectations with partner design firms and
performing contractors.
Next Steps:
• Commence the construction of Monterey & Fred Waring and Haystack & Hwy 74
Intersection Modifications projects.
• Finalize design and commence with the construction of the Haystack Road Traffic Calming
Improvements Phase II project, which includes considering alternate bike lane designs
and pedestrian crosswalks.
• Finalize the progressive design/build specifications for Walk & Roll (Phase II).
• Finalize the design of the PD Link Phase II project for construction.
• Hold public engagement meetings to review conceptual options for Walk & Roll (Phase III).
• Release Design-Build RFP for Walk & Roll (Phase II).
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 10
Capital Projects
Department Description:
The Capital Projects Department is responsible for the management and delivery of some of the
City’s most complex, diverse, and large-scale capital improvement projects (CIP) related to city
infrastructure. Many aspects involved in the delivery of these CIPs include feasibility studies, site
design, document preparation, construction management, inspection, and other various aspects
of the capital projects delivery system.
Top Accomplishments:
1. Completion of the Cook Street Rehabilitation Project.
2. Completion of the Development Services Lobby Project.
3. Completion of the Fred Waring Street Rehabilitation Project.
Other Significant Accomplishments:
• Completion of the White Stone Lane Drainage Improvement Project.
• Completion of the installation of the North Sphere Wind Fence Project.
• Execution of five Power Purchase Agreements for Photovoltaic Improvements.
• Completed Building Assessment for Fire Stations 33 and 71.
• Completed Bridge Preventive Maintenance Project (BPMP) 2023 Project.
• Completed Storm Drain Cleaning Project.
• Completed San Pablo Art Installation.
• Awarded the Section 29 Retention Basin Expansion Construction Bid.
• Submitted Fire Station 102 Entitlement Package.
• Completed multi-phase Office Space Planning effort.
• Completed New Library site selection process.
Looking Ahead:
Capital Projects
Haystack Road Traffic Calming Improvements Phase II Q1 2024
Desert Willow Overflow parking lot (200+ spaces) Q1 2024
Parking Lot Pavement Condition Evaluations Q1 2024
New Library: RFP for Architectural Design Services Q1 2024
HSIP Retroreflective Traffic Signal Backplates Q1 2024
Construct Walk and Roll Phase I Q2 2024
Release Storm Drain Infrastructure Assessment Project Q2 2024
Photovoltaic Carport Project Q2 2024
Citywide Sidewalk Replacement Program and Pedestrian Ramps Q2 2024
City Hall Parking Lot ADA Improvements Q2 2024
Award Construction Bid for FS 102 Offsite Q2 2024
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 11
City Manager’s Office
Department Description:
The City Manager’s Office serves under the policy direction of the City Council and provides
leadership and management over the day-to-day operations to ensure residents and businesses
receive exceptional City services. The Department includes Human Resources and the City
Clerk’s Office.
Top Accomplishments:
City Manager’s Office:
1. Commenced the transition from a county-run to a city-run library and hired a new Library
Services Director and Assistant Library Services Director.
2. Established a proactive “Disaster Services Worker” programs, included presentations
throughout departments and divisions, acknowledging and explaining the role of City
employees as a disaster service worker, and creating an identification for employees to
distinguish them as Disaster Service Workers.
City Clerk’s Office:
1. Centralized Recording Secretary duties for the City’s Appointed Bodies to ensure
compliance with Brown Act requirements.
2. Facilitation of two map drawing workshops, three community workshops, five public
hearings related to the redistricting process.
Human Resources:
1. Completed Palm Desert Employees Organization (PDEO) Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) negotiations and Compensation Agreement with the unrepresented
group effective July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2026.
2. Graduated over 60 employees (two cohorts) from Palm Desert University, an internal
training program for City employees.
Other Significant Accomplishments:
• Secured an $8M grant to assist with the City’s enhancements to flood infrastructure in the
north sphere.
• Facilitated Library Task Force meetings, leading to the recommendation for a new library site.
• Hired a School Resource Officer who is assigned to Palm Desert Charter Middle School.
• Selected the City’s new Chief of Police.
• Launched a new Agenda Management System resulting in improved website accessibility
and better-quality meeting videos, audio, and live captioning.
• Adoption of an ordinance updating general provisions and incorporating bylaws for all
Boards, Commissions, Committees, and Task Forces (“Appointed Bodies”).
• Created a new online Claim Against the City form to simplify the public’s ability to file a
claim and to streamline the staff notification process.
• Initiated a newly appointed body member orientation and onboarding program.
• Created a staff report writing handbook covering roles and responsibilities, process
overview, and common language standards.
• Transitioned to a new deferred compensation administrator to improve investment
portfolio and decrease fees.
• Led the Change Management Team to improve communication and project planning for
internal and external City projects.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 12
• Completed over 30 recruitments, including the City Engineer, Capital Projects Director,
Director of Library Services, and Assistant Director of Library Services.
• Onboarded 28 new employees and promoted 38 existing employees.
• Organized and coordinated the end of the year employee appreciation and years of
service recognition event with over 100 attendees.
• Completed open enrollment of health benefits for all employees and City Council.
Looking Ahead:
City Manager’s Office
Review police staffing levels and bring to Council for consideration Q2 2024
Commence PDAC monthly meetings and report back to City Council Q1/Q2 2024
Operate City-run library services Q2/Q3 2024
Human Resources
City of Palm Desert Autism Certified Organization Q1 2024
Health and Welfare Benefits Information Booklet Q1 2024
Start Reviewing and Updating Human Resources Policies Q2 2024
Recruit staff for Municipal Library Q1/Q2 2024
City Clerk’s Office
Complete the redistricting process to establish five districts Q1 2024
Prepare for candidates interested in running for City Council Q2/Q3 2024
Q2/Q3 2024
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 13
Development Services
Department Description:
The Development Services Department implements the objectives of the community that are set
forth in the City of Palm Desert's Strategic Plan, General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and Specific
Plans. Development Services reviews new development proposals to ensure that the City's
design and development standards, goals, and policies are executed in the development of the
City. Development Services also ensure that existing structures and properties are maintained to
levels acceptable by the community. To carry out these functions, the Department has named the
newly renovated lobby to the “Development Services Center” implementing streamlined
operations and services.
Top Accomplishments:
1. Implemented a new software for Short-Term Rentals (STR) to file and pay Transient
Occupancy Tax (TOT) online. New software has allowed the enforcement of non-
permitted STRs, resulting in the issuance of $210,600 in fines and collection of $109,000.
2. Continue to streamline process, including business license reviews that reduced the
number of days in review from 45 days to 5 days.
3. Implemented online scheduling of building inspections through our E-TRAKiT software.
The benefit of this new program is to reduce staff hours from manually scheduling
inspections and allow permit holders the ability to schedule at any time.
Other Significant Accomplishments:
• Updated policy for expediting the removal and storage of personal property from private
property resulting in a more effective process for abatement of unlawful campsites.
• Updated policies and procedures for continued streamlining of plan review and building
permit issuance. This continued improvement allows projects to be shovel ready sooner.
• Reinstituted Shopping Cart Retrieval Program.
• Developed a comprehensive cross training syllabus for all divisions and outside
departments that are involved in providing frontline services.
• Revamped workflows for efficiency in the permitting software for permits reviewed by
building, land development, and planning. For example, the core team was able to reduce
a 14-step workflow process to issue a permit to a 9-step process resulting in a reduction
of staff resources and efficient processing timeframes.
• Department team building over a two-day period resulting in increased communication
and action plans to respond to the needs of the department.
• Implemented a new Cannabis Regulatory Program that resulted in improved
communication between the CA Department of Cannabis Control.
• Awarded University Neighborhood Specific Plan Contract and held kick-off meeting with
the City’s consultant team.
• Completed a comprehensive review with recommendations to update the downtown
zoning districts.
• Utilize GIS technology to inventory existing landscaping in commercial shopping centers.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 14
Looking Ahead:
Development Services
Adoption of Objective Design Standards Q1 2024
GIS Workplan detailing departmental mapping needs Q1 2024
Implementation of the online Solar App+ solar permitting Q1 2024
Finalize the Engineering Design Manual Q1 2024
Q1 2024
Complete fee schedule update Q2 2024
Update Mills Act guidelines Q2 2024
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 15
Economic Development
Department Description:
Economic Development exists to assist businesses expanding within, or locating to, the City of Palm
Desert including financing, workforce solutions, and technical assistance that encourages investment
in the community to enhance the lives of our residents. Staff within the department handle real estate
transactions, business partnerships and support, and outreach. The Department was expanded to
oversee the City’s Special Programs and Public Affairs Divisions. These divisions provide waste and
recycling programming, public art, civic engagement, visitor services, and marketing.
Top Accomplishments:
1. Execution of the City’s 50th Anniversary Celebration.
2. Changed operator for the Palm Desert iHUB to California State University San Bernardino
School of Entrepreneurship.
3. Hosted the City’s first Civic Academy.
Other Significant Accomplishments:
• Appointment of City’s first Poet Laureate, Lori Davis.
• Installation of Sunburst sculpture at San Pablo and San Gorgonio.
• Installation of Suncrawlers artwork by artist John Cuevas at Hwy 111 and El Paseo.
• Implemented virtual Public Art Tour for El Paseo Sculpture Exhibition and updated the
online Public Artist Registry.
• Reopened the Palm Desert Community Gallery after a three-year hiatus.
• New contract with Rising Realty Partners for property management services related to the
Parkview Office Complex.
• Completed the 2023 National Mayors Challenge for Water Conservation and created a
turf buy-back program resulting in the conversion of over 750,000 square feet of turf to
drought landscape to date as a result of the City’s turf rebate partnership with CVWD.
• Mailed the “Know Before You Throw” recycling guide to residents and businesses.
• Contracted with recycling field consultant to assist businesses with SB 1383 education and
enforcement and FIND Food Bank to assist with edible food recovery program implementation.
• Navigated the SLA process to obtain a licensing agreement for public improvements to
Parcel A at Desert Willow
• Contract awarded to Kimley Horn for a rail station feasibility study.
• Executed a Transient Occupancy Tax Reimbursement Agreement with JW Marriott for
expansion of their ballroom and convention meeting space.
• Completed 2023 “State of the Cannabis Industry Report” resulting in the reduction of
excise cannabis tax from 10% to 5%.
• Reinforced the Public Affairs team with a focus on business and community
communications by establishing an ombudsman position.
• Expanded business outreach efforts with contracts with FG Creative for El Paseo
businesses, completion of the 2023 Broker’s Report, membership in the Palm Desert Area
Chamber of Commerce, Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce, and Greater Coachella
Valley Chamber of Commerce.
• Expanded the Invest Palm Desert Economic Development incentive program by including
“de minimis” provisions.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 16
• Public and community engagement through City update presentations to: The Desert
Valley Builders Association, Soroptimist Club of Palm Desert, the Desert Sun, California
Desert Association of Realtors, and Interface Southern California.
• Continued engagement with El Paseo businesses resulting in the restudy and redesign of
Lupine Plaza from a full street closure to a slow-street design.
• Contracted with The Retail Coach for business recruitment (Council Goal).
Looking Ahead:
Economic Development
Shadow Ridge Development Agreement Q1 2024
Outdoor Worker Appreciation Mural Community Project Q1 2024
Release new online application for Community Event Sponsorships Q1 2024
Approval of an Amendment to the DA for Shadow Ridge Q1 2024
Council decision for new parking facilities at Tumbleweed & Ocotillo Q1 2024
Adoption of the Rail Station Feasibility Study Q1 2024
2nd Amend. to the 2nd Revised and Restated DDA for DSRT Surf Q1 2024
Q1 2024
Disposition of the property adjacent to the Joslyn Center Q1 2024
Adoption of Broadband Master Plan and Feasibility Study Q1 2024
Q1 2024
Q2 2024
Evaluation of Parkview building for potential sale Q2 2024
Coordination of a mall redevelopment strategy with Pacific Retail Q2 2024
Acquisition of Parcel A at Desert Willow to the City for public use Q2 2024
Disposition of the Alessandro Alley Parcels and Wallaroo Property Q2 2024
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 17
Finance
Department Description:
The Finance Department is responsible for financial matters affecting all departments and activities
of the City. Finance functions include Cash Management, Debt Management, Budgeting,
Purchasing, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Financial Statements, General Ledger, Loan
Administration, and Payroll. The Department works to ensure financial transparency and to promote
effective accountability and fiscal management. This quarter the Department was expanded to
oversee the City’s Housing Division. The Housing Division provides Housing Authority oversight,
property management, housing rental assistance, affordable housing programs, new affordable
housing development financial support and the City’s Rent Review Ordinance.
Top Accomplishments:
1. Received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget
Presentation Award for the Fiscal Year 2022/23 Annual Budget.
2. Awarded a new contract for comprehensive banking services with Wells Fargo and
facilitated the implementation of these services, while simultaneously ushering in the
transition from Union Bank to U.S. Bank for the City’s existing accounts.
3. Renegotiated, facilitated, and completed transition of property management services for
Palm Desert Housing Authority.
Other Significant Accomplishments:
• Finalized the City’s financial audit and single audit for FY 2022-23, along with the Annual
Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), resulting in no audit findings.
• Conducted two budget study sessions, ending with the unanimous adoption of the Fiscal
Year 2023/24 Annual Financial Plan and Five-Year Capital Improvement Program.
• Awarded a new contract for comprehensive banking services with Wells Fargo and
facilitated the implementation of these services, while simultaneously ushering in the
transition from Union Bank to U.S. Bank for the City’s existing accounts.
• Conducted Desert Willow feedback sessions with residents and successfully identified
issues and opportunities for resolution to make solid recommendations for City Council
consideration. The City Council approved the revised structure on April 13, 2023, and will
be reviewed annually.
• Implemented the new purchasing ordinance which improves the efficiency of the
procurement process.
• Concluded transition of investment management services to PFM and determined portfolio
funding sources and timing of investments.
• Completed shredding or electronic conversion of over 100 boxes of 40+ years of
accumulated paper documents per the retention schedule.
• Implemented the Projects Ledger in the financial system to better track CIP budgets.
• Began implementation of the contracts management module in the financial system.
Received initial training and began configuring the system. This will improve the tracking
and monitoring of City contracts.
• Submitted Five Year Comprehensive Action Plan and CAPER Reports for CDBG.
• Implemented 2023/24 Financial Plan and Capital Improvement Program
• Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with Chelsea Investment Corporation for ARC Village.
• Completed work with sales tax consultant on initial resident survey and provided updates
to members of the City Council.
• Completed all Fiscal Year 2022/23 financial audit fieldwork and preparation of draft financial
statements for the City and Palm Desert Recreational Facilities Corporation (PDRFC).
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 18
• Finalized Fiscal Year 2022/23 Measure A audit and annual Street Report.
• Closed out two CDBG capital improvement projects (Joslyn Center and JFK Memorial
Hospital Foundation).
• Implemented project tracking for Hurricane Hillary expenditure reporting and cost recovery.
• Merle Self Help project groundbreaking closed three escrows with Coachella Valley
Housing Coalition transferring vacant land to qualified buyers for build.
• Completed amendment to Disposition, Development, and Loan Agreement (DDLA) for
Palm Villas at Millenium project.
• Housing Authority property tour for Housing Commission and the City Council.
• Awarded contract for demolition of Portola Property; notice to proceed pending utility
companies terminating service.
• Crossings at Palm Desert, Loan disbursed, closed escrow.
• Completed Neghbors and Las Serenas Rehabilitation.
• Completed Housing Authority Building Assessment.
• Addressed numerous repairs, issues, and restorations from Hillary Storm damages (8
interior unit rehabilitation, 56 ceiling repairs, etc.).
• Awarded contract to Clariti and kicked off the land development software implementation.
• Increased Cybersecurity awareness and implemented Artic Wolf security services to
enhance detection and response to cyber threats.
Looking Ahead:
Finance
Award auditing Services contract Q1 2024
Q1 2024
Portola Property, Demolition Q1 2024
RFP for Housing Authority Landscape Maintenance Services Q1 2024
Arc Village Disposition, Development, and Loan Agreement Q1 2024
Q1 2024
One Quail Place Parking Lot Rehabilitation Q1 2024
Crossings at Palm Desert, Supplemental Bond Agreement Q1 2024
Participation in a Valley-wide vendor fair in Palm Springs Q2 2024
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 19
Public Works
Department Description:
The Public Works Department provides for the City's facility management, community services
(parks, recreation, public-private partnerships), streets maintenance, traffic operations, and
landscape services.
Top Accomplishments:
1. Removed over 600 tons of sand to clear roadways in the north part of the City and installed
500 tons of recycled palm mulch to control fugitive dust.
2. Completed Mid-Valley Channel Phase I cleanup from tropical storm Hilary.
3. Completed renovations to PDAC locker rooms, installed chillers and UV disinfection
system, and repainted building interior and exterior.
Other Significant Accomplishments:
• Completed Phase II of Desert Willow parkway renovation.
• Completed roof repairs at Artists Council, Henderson Building, and City Hall.
• Completed CV Sync Phase I – video detection and synchronization of signals on Hwy 111
and Washington Street.
• Completed landscaping projects at Portola median and Magnesia Falls median.
• Completed Neighborhood Traffic Management Plan preparation and community meetings.
• Completed installation of a new generator, separator, appliances, new paint, and flooring
projects at Fire Stations 33 and 71.
• Renovated several suites at Parkview Office Complex and continued working with Marks
Architects on building renovation designs.
• Awarded contract for Building Asset Inventory for all facilities and parks.
• Memorandum of Understanding executed with Friends of the Desert Mountains for trail
maintenance.
• Revised park ordinance to clarify park uses and permit requirements.
• Fee study completed for Palm Desert Aquatic Center.
• Replacement of playground equipment at Washington Charter School.
• New fitness equipment added at Civic Center Park.
• Refreshed City Hall building identification signage.
• Installed security cameras at Palma Village Park.
• Replanted downed and damaged trees along San Pablo.
• 100% design completed for Palma Village Park pavilion area; Completed installation of
new park furnishings at Palma Village Park (grant-funded).
• Obtained City Council approval for design of north Palm Desert Community Park.
• Installed new fence at Historical Society.
• Designed and completed new landscaping on San Pablo roundabout.
• Completed Civic Center Park improvements for 50th Anniversary Celebration.
• Completed installation of flashing LED rings on stop signs at 5 intersections on El Paseo
and Portola.
2023 ANNUAL REPORT – CITY COUNCIL GOALS AND INITIATIVES
CITY OF PALM DESERT PAGE 20
Looking Ahead:
Public Works
Implementation of temporary traffic calming devices per NTMP Q1 2024
Install illuminated street name signs at various intersections Q1 2024
Mid-Valley Channel Phase II cleanup Q1 2024
Q1 2024
Begin north Palm Desert regional park design Q1 2024
Q1 2024
Complete design of new wayfinding signs Q2 2024
Q2 2024
Installation of selfie station and trailhead restroom at Bump & Grind Q2 2024
Complete design of ADA improvements at Cahuilla Hills Park Q2 2024