landscape design. The growing influence of the entertainment industry in Palm Springs is evident as more permanent retreats and accommodations for Hollywood stars begin to emerge during this period.
AERIAL VIEW OF THE SUBJECT PARCEL.
EAST (REAR) ELEVATION OF 1752 RIDGE ROAD, 2025.
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Related Relevant City Actions by HSPB, Planning, Fire, Building, etc.
February, 2026 Site inspection by members of the HSPB and City Staff.
Ownership Status
July, 2024 Purchased by the current owner.
Historic Context Statement “Between the Wars (1919-1941)” As the industrialists, wealthy businessmen and the Hollywood elite began to vacation in the region, Palm Springs entered a transformative phase where resort development became a driving force of the local economy. The city was incorporated in 1936 with a permanent population of 5,336 but the first residential subdivisions date back to the early 1920s.
1 The architectural style of choice for residential and commercial buildings during this time was Spanish Colonial Revival and Mediterranean Revival . It was seen as an attempt to adopt traditional styles from Spain and the region of Andalusia 2 with the conditions of California.
Context: Single-family Residential Development (1919-1941) Theme: Single-Family Residential Development (1919-1941) Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme, a property must:
Date from the period of significance; and
Represent important patterns and trends in residential development from this period, including representing 1920s and 1930s development and settlement patterns; an association with an important developer; an association with Palm Springs as an artists’ enclave; an association with tourism in Palm Springs; or
Represent an excellent, rare, or influential example of an architectural style, property type, or method of construction; or be associated with a significant architect or designer; and display most of the character- defining features of the property type or style; and
Retain the essential aspects of historic integrity
Theme: The Influence of the Entertainment Industry (1919-1941) Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme, a property must:
Date from the period of significance; and
Represent a known association with an important person or persons in the entertainment industry; because Palm Springs is a resort destination, eligible properties associated with people in the entertainment industry in the city will likely be second homes; for commercial properties, represent a known association with the Hollywood social scene in Palm Springs; a film location must represent an early or iconic location; and Display most of the character-defining features of the property type or style; and
Retain the essential aspects of historic integrity
1 City of Palm Springs Citywide Historic Context Statement “Palm Springs between the Wars (1919-1941)”, 144. 2 City of Palm Springs Citywide Historic Context Statement “Architectural Styles”, 344.
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
Context: Architectural Styles & Local Practitioners
Theme: Single-family Residential Development between the Wars Sub-theme: Single-family Residential Development (1919-1929) Sub-theme: Spanish Colonial Revival
Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme as an excellent example of its architectural style, a property must:
Retain most – though not necessarily all – of the character-defining features of the style, and continue to exhibit its historic appearance If important for illustrating a particular architectural style or construction technique, must retain most of the physical features that constitute that style or technique.
ANALYSIS:
The historic resources report (“the report”), site visit, and city documents and forms are the basis of this staff report. The report calls attention to the character-defining features of the property and provides detailed background information regarding the developing cultural trends in the area during the period of significance.
Historic Preservation activities in Palm Springs are regulated under Municipal Code Section 8.05 (“ Historic Preservation” ). The purpose of the Historic Preservation Ordinance is:
“…to stabilize and improve buildings, structures or areas which are considered to be of historical, architectural, archaeological or ecological
value, to foster civic beauty, to strengthen the local economy and to promote the use of historic resources for the education and welfare of the citizens.”
Conditions that apply to Class 1 historic sites or resources:
1. It shall meet the definition of a historic site as outlined in Municipal Code Section
8.05.020.
2. An archival file shall be maintained on the property by the City.
3. It may be qualified as ‘historic’ at the federal, state, and/or county level.
4. A marker explaining the historic nature of the site may be installed in a location viewable from the public way.
5. Compliance with all rules and regulations for Historic Resources and Historic Districts under Chapter 8.05 of the Municipal Code.
6. If designated, the findings in support of designation shall be stated in a resolution of the City Council that shall be recorded with the County Recorders’ office within 90 days of the effective date of the Council’s resolution.
Evaluation of the Application. Pursuant to Municipal Code Section 8.05.070 (C,1,a), the HSPB shall evaluate the application and make findings in conformance with the following criteria:
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Criteria for the Designation of Class 1 Historic Resources. A site, structure, building or object may be designated as a Class 1 historic resource, provided both of the following findings (“a” and “b”) are met:
a. The site, structure, building or object exhibits exceptional historic significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below:
1752 Ridge Road is a single-family residential property located in the Mesa subdivision.
The primary residence, guest house and associated landscape features were built on this hillside lot with corresponding changes to the site grading. After completion, little to no changes were made to the site. The following is an analysis of the criteria and integrity findings to determine if the site meets the qualifications for historic site designation.
(Criterion i) The resource is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community;
Following the completion of the compound by Goulding, the site was known as the “Little White House” where Hollywood stars and prominent members of European nobility would stay and hold events. The report provided detail ed information on social events hosted on the premises, but these isolated events alone would not qualify for this criteri on. As one of the earliest examples of a site utilized as a destination for the LGBTQ+ community contributes to setting a pattern of events that now defines Palm Springs as a cultural destination for the LGBTQ+ community. Based on this pattern of events, criterion i is met.
(Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history;
The site became a retreat for prominent Hollywood figures, but the most prominent individual directly associated with this resource is the screenwriter and director Edmund Goulding. In 1934, Goulding rented the Fulford house and then purchased the home in 1936 and immediately began constructing the rest of the residential compound. When the property was under his ownership, he was at the height of his career in Hollywood, directing several major films and working with Oscar nominated actors. (See report for more details on his major contributions .) Goulding’s contributions as a director are recognized as meaningful contributions to the entertainment industry from the 1920s to the 1940s. This criterion is met.
(Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, state or local history;
The property was developed during a period identified as between the Wars when Palm Springs was shifting into a tourism-based economy. The layout of the residential tracts and the design of the buildings were a result of new marketing strategies that responded to the times. Developers identified Spanish Colonial Revival as the style of architecture for the desert climate, and new structures were to be integrated with the desert landscape.
Terra cotta roof tiles, wooden windows rafter tails, asymmetrical building mass and simple
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
material palettes were all part of the design aesthetic. In addition to the planning and architectural changes, there were cultural shifts that became associated with specific sites like 1725 Ridge Road. As a discreet retreat for LGBTQ+ figures in Hollywood during the 1930s, the Goulding Estate contributed to Palm Springs’ early identity as a destination of privacy and refuge for the LGBTQ+ community. Criterion iii is met.
(Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction;
Unlike the National Register criterion concerning construction, the Palm Springs evaluation of construction addresses the type (of construction), the period (of construction) and the method (of construction). The structures on the site were constructed using conventional methods of construction and materials that were available. The terracing of the site to create a flat surface for the base of the home required additional engineering but it does not appear that new advancements in technology or materials were used to achieve this task. Criterion iv is not met.
(Criterion v) The resource presents the work of a master builder, designer, artist, or architect whose individual genius influenced his age, or that possesses high artistic value;
As the original developer of the Mesa tract, Edmond Fulford is locally recognized as an early pioneer of Palm Springs whose vision for residential development played a significant role in attracting elite residents to the city. His understanding and desire to preserve the natural desert beauty was applied directly to how parcels were organized and roadways were designed.
The architect or designer of the structures at 1752 Ridge Road was not disclosed but the report identified Paul H. Avery as the landscape designer for the site. Avery is also given credit for the biomorphic swimming pool , the waterfall feature, and the stone terrace system. While his design achievements on the site are quite remarkable, more information about his other works would be necessary to assess his individual influence and genius to meet this criterion.
Tom Douglas was hired by Goulding to design and decorate the guest cottages and is given credit for designing the V-shaped pool pavilion at the base of the property . His reputation as a renown interior designer is affirmed by his distinguished clientele and the wide publication of his work in numerous magazines and articles.
Fulford and Douglas’ influence is reflected in the design of the buildings and the site, therefore, Criterion v for historic significance is met.
(Criterion vi) The resource represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction, as used in evaluating applications for designation of historic districts, for parcels on which more than one entity exists; or
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
The resource is not within a historic district and does not qualify under Criterion vi.
(Criterion vii) The resource has yielded or may be likely to yield information important to national, state or local history or prehistory.
No information is available on any pre-historic significance of the site.
Analysis of Integrity. (PSMC 8.05.070 (C,1,b). The site, structure, building or object retains one or more of the following aspects of integrity, as established in the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards: integrity of design, materials, workmanship, location, setting, feeling, or association.
The Edmund Goulding Residence is evaluated based on the following topics of integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:
Location.
The primary home and the guest house are in their original locations on the lot; therefore, the integrity of location is met.
Design.
The Edmund Goulding Residence at 1725 Ridge Road is a hillside lot with steep grades.
The primary home and guest house were constructed by the original developer in 1928 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. At the street level , both buildings have the appearance of a one- story structure. The primary façade of the main house has an asymmetrical elevation with two projecting gable ends and an attached carport at the far south end of the home. The front elevation of the guest house has a shed roof and small porch overhang that faces the street. Both structures have concrete brick walls that are painted white and terra cotta roof tiles. The rear elevation shows the true scale of the buildings as a two-story structure with recessed covered patios and projecting balconies that are oriented to capture the sweeping views . The fenestration on each structure is simple, and the openings are symmetrical and framed with wood. The gable ends of the main house are clearly visible and the pool and pavilion are located at the lowest point of the property. The site has been landscaped with desert appropriate plantings, and the complex stone terraced garden integrates circulation paths that follows the natural grade of the site from the buildings to the pool area.
The mass, scale , and materials of the buildings have not changed from the original design, and the landscape features appear original . The pool has a unique shape and pool pavilion is nested in the naturals features of the site. Based on the information provided, the integrity of design remains extant.
Setting.
The hillside setting of the development and the sweeping views to the east are largely preserved due to the natural conditions of the site. R esidential infill development in the surrounding areas no longer ascribe to a uniform style of architecture but the overall features of the natural setting remain intact. The base of the structures, particularly the
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
main home, meets the flat grade at the top of the terraced garden system. The location of all built structures, including the swimming pool and the pool pavilion, remain in their original setting. The integrity of setting is intact.
Materials.
Although some of the stones in the terraced garden need to be repaired, the walls retain the grade, as designed. The walls of the buildings are hollow block concrete bricks painted white, and wood framed windows and balcony details are seen throughout . The roof is covered with terra cotta barrel tiles that give the buildings a cohesive look. Most of the materials seen on site appear to be original to the home. The integrity of materials is met.
Workmanship.
As intended by Fulford, all of the homes in the Mesa were intended to be custom-built in the Spanish Colonial Style with the highest standards for workmanship. While the deferred maintenance on site shows areas where repairs and replacement of material may be necessary, the level of decorative detail found on the balconies and rafters shows a high level of workmanship and craft. The integrity of workmanship remains intact.
Feeling.
The surrounding context remains a residential neighborhood within the desert hillside.
With only minimal alterations to the buildings and the overall site, the property continues to exhibit the defining characteristic of the Spanish Colonial Revival style and the terraced retaining walls that follow the natural contours of the site. The integrity of feeing is preserved.
Association.
The modest street-view of the buildings appear utilitarian, but the materials and form of the buildings and the landscape design all reflect the uniqueness of the 1920s and 1930s.
The integrity of association with the period is retained.
DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS:
When evaluating a property for historic designation, it is important to identify the original elements that contribute to its historic significance from later additions or alterations.
While these changes may be sympathetic to the original design, it can c reate a false sense of historicity. Distinguishing original character -defining features from non- original elements will aid the HSPB when it is tasked with evaluating future alterations to the historic resource.
Character-defining features on page 70 of the historic resources report and the staff analysis of important features are listed as follows:
Primary Residence Architecture
• Construction Materials: Hollow block, concrete brick, painted white, with whitewashed red terra cotta barrel tile roof, also painted white.
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
• Asymmetrical Composition: Three- dimensional facade with central recessed volume flanked by two forward-projecting gabled brick volumes • Distinctive Window Treatment: Original wooden casement windows and French doors painted in signature light turquoise color
• Dramatic Rear Elevation: Two- story canyon -facing facade with covered patio featuring deep overhang and distinctive wooden posts with horizontal notched capitals
• Indoor-Outdoor Integration: Large arched picture window and multiple French doors connecting interior spaces to covered patio and views • Rustic Detailing: Tapered wooden handrail supports with decorative waists and small notches, open rafter ceiling construction
• Massive Brick Fireplace: Arched opening that creates axial relationship with the picture window across living room
• Spatial Organization: Open-plan living room with gabled beam ceiling, connected dining room, and bedroom wing arrangement taking advantage of sloping site
Guest House Architecture
• Consistent Material Palette: Same hollow block concrete brick construction and whitewashed tile roof as main residence
• Restrained Street Facade: Simple tripartite composition with central door flanked by wooden casement windows
• Two-Story Canyon Elevation: Substantial second- floor balcony with three tall wooden posts creating colonnade effect
• Structural Expression: Distinctive "Y"-shaped angled supports for balcony floor as original design elements
• Connecting Elements: Hollow block concrete brick wall with arched opening linking guest house to main residence
Landscape Design
• Biomorphic Swimming Pool: One of the first naturalistic pools designed to resemble a pond, with giant weathered granite boulders integrated into coping • Hardscape Materials: Pool deck paved with irregular Arizona sandstone, deep coppery brown tile scum gutter coordinating with granite • Pool Pavilion: Flattened "V"-shaped structure with four wooden posts, open beam ceiling, and central fireplace with splaying brick walls • Terraced Garden System: Series of granite boulder retaining walls creating flat areas cascading down hillside
• Varied Paving Hierarchy: Terra cotta Mission tile patio nearest house, Arizona sandstone with grass panels below, sandstone steps throughout terracing • Water Feature System: Originally included bridge traversing canyon with waterfall flowing to swimming pool below
• Specimen Olive Trees: Large multi-trunk olive trees strategically placed for shade and "instant effect," including original tree north of guest house • Mediterranean Plant Palette: Italian cypress row along carport, star jasmine groundcover around pool area
• Unifying Oleander Masses: Extensive white oleander plantings throughout the
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
property and terraced slopes
• Oasis Effect: Strategic placement of palm trees and flowering shrubs on rocky mountain slopes adjacent to structures
• Integrated Grass Panels: Areas for lounging and recreation
Planning and Privacy Features
• Gated Estate: Formidable brick pillars at two Ridge Road entrances with gates ensuring complete privacy
• Natural Topography Integration: Buildings and terracing following natural desert contours rather than imposing geometric patterns
• Strategic Siting: Northernmost corner of Palm Canyon Mesa, providing commanding desert valley views with natural canyon protection
Non-contributing elements:
• Funicular added in the early 1960s
• Array of solar panels on the roof
• Ground-mounted mechanical equipment
• Curving pony walls along the street-facing façade of the buildings • Extended roof overhang above the street-facing entrance to the main home
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The proposed historic resource designation is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Sections 15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is not a project as defined in Section 15378) of the CEQA Guidelines, California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Chapter 3, because it has no potential for resulting in physical changes to the environment, directly or indirectly.
NOTIFICATION:
Pursuant to section 8.05.140 of the Municipal Code of Palm Springs, all residents within five hundred (500) feet of the subject property have been notified and notice was published in a newspaper of general circulation.
CONCLUSION:
The Edmund Goulding R esidence meets the definition of a historic resource based on Criterion 1, 2, 3 and 5 of the Palm Springs Historic Preservation Ordinance and meets the necessary integrity findings to support its historic significance; therefore, staff recommends Class 1 designation as a historic landmark property.
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Historic Site Preservation Board Staff Report February 3, 2026 HSPB-171 – The Edmund Goulding Residence
PREPARED BY: Sarah Yoon, Associate Planner/Historic Preservation Officer REVIEWED BY: Anthony Riederer, Assistant Director of Planning Services
Attachments:
A. Vicinity Map
B. Draft Resolution
C. Application, related background materials, photos.
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EXCERPTS OF MINUTES
At the Historic Site Preservation Board meeting of the City of Palm Springs, held February 3, 2026, the Historic Site Preservation Board took the following action:
2.C. AN APPLICATION BY LUCIEN WOLFF FOR HISTORIC SITE
DESIGNATION OF THE EDMUND GOULDING RESIDENCE LOCATED
AT 1752 RIDGE ROAD, (APN 513-352-002) CASE: HSPB #171, (SY).
Historic Preservation Officer Yoon presented the staff report and answered questions of the board.
Lucien Wolff (owner) spoke in favor of having a historic designation application.
Motion by Member Maschka Hitchcock, seconded by Member McCready to recommend a resolution for HSPB #171, that the City Council designate The Edmund Goulding Residence as a historic Class 1 site. This action is not a project pursuant to CEQA.
AYES: Hansen, Bachman, Herr, Paonessa, McCready, Maschka Hitchcock.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: Moruzzi.
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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: March 25, 2026 BUSINESS & LEGISLATIVE
SUBJECT: REVIEW OF PRESCOTT PRESERVE FIRE
FROM: Scott C. Stiles, City Manager
BY: Fire Department and Department of Special Program Compliance SUMMARY:
This agenda item provides the City Council with a summary and analysis of the fire that occurred at Prescott Preserve on February 1, 2026, and outlines the City of Palm Springs’ response to the incident. The report details the sequence of events, the emergency response, and the subsequent actions taken by City staff to address the community concerns and ongoing fire mitigation efforts.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive and file.
BACKGROUND:
On February 1, 2026, at approximately 2:00 p.m., a fire occurred at the Prescott Preserve, burning approximately 3.5 acres and destroying an estimated 100 palm trees. The fire originated near the turtle pond area within the preserve. Fire crews successfully contained the fire by approximately 4:00 p.m. No injuries or structural damage were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and is believed to be human-caused.
Key Details
Cause: Believed to be human-caused; investigation ongoing. Damage: Approximately 100 palm trees destroyed and significant damage to the oasis area.
Location: Prescott Preserve between Farrell Drive and Compadre Road, south of Ramon Road.
Response: 36 firefighters from Palm Springs, Cathedral City, and CAL FIRE responded to contain the fire. Nearby residents also assisted by using garden hoses during the initial stages of the incident.
Impact: Trails on the east side of Farrell Drive were temporarily closed during response and recovery operations.
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City Council Staff Report
March 25, 2026 -- Page 2
Review of Prescott Preserve Fire
STAFF RESPONSE:
At approximately 2:17 p.m., firefighters from the Palm Springs Fire Department responded to reports of a vegetation fire within the 120-acre Prescott Preserve.
A second alarm was subsequently issued, bringing additional personnel from the Cathedral City Fire Department and CAL FIRE. At the time of arrival, multiple palm trees were already burning and there was potential for the fire to spread further in the preserve. Fire crews responded aggressively, utilizing specialized equipment, including a water tender capable of transporting several thousand gallons of water.
The fire ultimately burned approximately 3.5 acres of natural habitat, including roughly 100 palm trees located near the walking trails in the palm oasis area of the preserve.
At the City Council meeting of February 11, 2026, City staff provided a briefing to the City Council regarding the incident. The briefing outlined the rapid mutual-aid response, confirmed that no injuries occurred, and described ongoing vegetation management and fire mitigation efforts within the preserve.
During the Council meeting, nearby residents provided public comment requesting additional inspections and clearer communication regarding fire mitigation measures. In response, City staff met with residents on February 19, 2026, to discuss their concerns and provide additional information regarding the City’s maintenance and mitigation efforts. At that meeting, residents again expressed concerns regarding fire safety and vegetation management. City staff provided a detailed overview of the mitigation work that has been completed within the preserve, as well as ongoing vegetation management efforts intended to reduce fire risk.
City staff also committed to maintaining ongoing communication with the Mesquite Country Homeowners Association. In addition, a site visit was scheduled with the Palms Springs Fire Department and Code Enforcement staff to review conditions within the preserve.
The site visit occurred on March 4, 2026. A summary of that visit is attached to this report as Attachment A. The City’s code compliance staff continues to monitor the Preserve on a bi-weekly basis, working cooperatively with Oswit Land Trust staff to promptly address any concerns as they arise.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
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City Council Staff Report
March 25, 2026 -- Page 2
Review of Prescott Preserve Fire
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City Council Staff Report
March 25, 2026 -- Page 3
Review of Prescott Preserve Fire
REVIEWED BY:
Fire Chief: Paul Alvarado
Director of Special Program Compliance: Veronica Goedhart City Manager: Scott Stiles
ATTACHMENTS:
A. March 4, 2026 Summary Report
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ATTACHMENT A
Site Visit - Summary Notes
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MCC HOA Site Visit by Palm Springs Fire Department and Code Enforcement.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 1:00 to 3:00 pm
OLT Bike Path on the East side of Farrell Drive
ATTENDEES:
Palm Springs Fire Dept. (PSFD): Taylor Teeple, Fire Marshal.
Palm Springs Code Compliance (CC): Mitch Nabhan, Code Compliance Supervisor.
MCC HOA: Mike Teagle, HOA Director; Randy Grant, Maintenance Committee Chair ; Greg Thomas, Prescott Preserve Liaison Committee Chair; Abby Winston, Capital Committee Chair; Robert Olsen, Resident Phase 1; Toney Campos, Property Supervisor.
OLT: David Lahti, OLT Director; David Paisley, Deputy Director.
MEETING SUMMARY:
Fire Marshal Comments on HOA Structures.
Fire Marshal Taylor Teeple started the site visit by complementing the HOA on the condition of its property in terms of fire prevention. He made particular note of the following:
•Fire Dept. does annual review of the HOA property and, outside of two or three very minor repair issues, the property’s ranking is very high. Teeple was complimentary of the HOA management and maintenance staff. •The property is well maintained. The fire hydrants are well-marked with nothing blocking access to the hydrants.
•There is little vegetation in direct contact with structural walls. •Cement tile roofs and stucco exterior walls are all very fire resistant. •There is no accumulation of trash or flammable materials on the property.
Teeple did supply information on ember resistant vents that the HOA Board might consider installing in the gable end attic vents, especially those structures most directly exposed to the Preserve. A copy of the information was given to Property Supervisor Toney Campos for delivery to HOA management.
ACTION ITEM: The Maintenance Committee should bring forward a recommendation to the Board regarding the consideration of the installation of ember-resistant vents.
Teeple added that, while the HOA’s green belt fronting and surrounding each structure does act as a natural fire beak, desert-scaping with fire resistant plants does add an even higher level of deterrent. In his words “nothing beats dirt” as a fire break.
When asked about the palm tree skirts in the HOA-Preserve buffer zone, Fire Marshal Teeple did not consider the palm tree skirts to be a fire hazard because they are not
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touching roofs balconies or walls, located near buildings or densely packed adjacent to brush.
Code Compliance Comments.
1.OLT Prescott Preserve
•Code Compliance Supervisor, Mitch Nabhan, noted that his staff provide regular site visits of the preserve and that OLT has been very responsive about clearing debris and addressing areas identified as needing attention.
2.Vacant Clubhouse - not owned by OLT
•Nabhan also provided an overview of the controls being imposed on the owner of the vacant clubhouse property at the corner of Mesquite Avenue and Farrell Drive. The City of Palm Springs requires that vacant properties be registered with the Department of Building and Safety so that the City can work in partnership with property owners to ensure the City's standards are met and maintained. Accordingly, this vacant clubhouse is closely monitored by the City’s Code Compliance staff.
3.Vacant Bel Air Greens golf course - not owned by OLT:
•Additionally, Nabhan confirmed that Code Compliance is actively engaged in monitoring the vacant Bel Air Greens golf course. Vegetation at the perimeter adjoining the HOA lands has been largely cleaned up, but Code Compliance continues to monitor.
OLT Commets on Prescott Preserve/HOA Buffer Zone.
David Lahti, OLT Director, and David Paisley, OLT Deputy Director, spoke about Preserve maintenance and the planned Buffer Zone separating the Preserve from the HOA Phases 1, 2 and 3. They made particular note of the following:
1.When there is a wind event, Paisley noted that OLT has staff and volunteers on- site the next day with these priorities. He added that during high wind events it can take a couple of days to clear all zones.
•Clear the streets and sidewalks along Farrell, Compadre, Sunny Dunes and El Cielo.
•Clear the Preserve bike-path and interior trails.
•Clear the MCC HOA buffer zone.
•Clear other buffer zones.
2.Paisley commented that, while OLT values trees in general, including palm tree skirts and seeds, as a source of food and habitat for wildlife, OLT would consider a request by the HOA Board for trimming of specific trees in the buffer zone provided it is done after bird nesting season.
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3.He also commented that OLT would consider, at any time, an emergency request to trim a specific tree that poses an immediate risk of injury to anyone using the bike-path. High-risk trees or skirts can be reported to:
•City of Palm Springs by using the myPalmSprings App. Simply take a photo with a cellphone of the issue, fill out a quick form and submit. The city will automatically route your request to the appropriate department for resolution.
•OLT: contact information is available on their website oswitlandtrust.org
4.When discussing the pond area of the Preserve, Fire Marshal Teeple did not consider the brush and palm tree skirts at ground level to be a fire hazard to the HOA because they are separated from any HOA structures by a substantial distance. As a security precaution, OLT’s Paisley said that, as plants re-emerge after the February fire, OLT would consider keeping the peninsula of land situated in the pond area at a vegetation level that is good for wildlife but also retains sight lines into the area.
5.OLT described how Prescott Preserve is registered with the Palm Springs Police Department’s “Stop Trespass” program. It is a crime-prevention partnership between property owners and the police that allows officers to enforce trespassing laws on private property even when the owner or manager is not present. The program helps police address nuisance issues such as loitering, illegal camping, drug dealing, and people entering closed or restricted areas.
The Palm Springs Police Department can be called to attend by calling 911 (for an emergency) or the non-emergency number 760-327-1441.
6.OLT spoke about the buffer zone being developed at the perimeter of the Preserve where it abuts HOA Phases 1, 2 and 3. Paisley made the following comments:
•The buffer zone is being designed by LSA Environmental Design. •It is fully funded by the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) grant funds. •OLT is working with the City to obtain the permits required to begin work and this process is taking longer than anticipated. Given the timing of the permits and summer temperatures, planting on the buffer zone should start in the Fall of 2026.
•The plantings in the buffer zone will be low profile to protect views, drought and fire resistant, and adequately spaced to prevent the spread of fire.
Some of the plants to be planted in the buffer zone are:
➢Brittle bush.
➢Hummingbird bush.
➢Succulents and cactuses.
•Paisley showed a demonstration garden of the types of plants to be used in the buffer zone, located at the Farrell Drive entrance to the east half of the Preserve.
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•The buffer zone will be irrigated by low-pressure drip irrigation for as long as the young plants require it to become established.
•There will be no high-pressure broadcast irrigation on the Preserve because that causes a proliferation of the non-native invasive species of plant growth (like the London rocket mustard currently being experienced). •The removal of the non-native, invasive London rocket mustard will continue throughout the restoration process through hand-pulling, mowing and WCB- approved herbicide application. During this time HOA residents may see a temporary, above-ground, irrigation system in some sections of the Preserve. The irrigation is designed to force invasive non-native seed to germinate, rather than lie dormant in the soil, so the resulting growth can be removed in that section.
OLT Comments on Prescott Preserve Staffing and Security.
OLT’s Paisley spoke of the staffing and security measures being taken. He made the following comments:
•OLT no longer uses the term “Ranger” because it implies some amount of law enforcement authority which OLT does not have.
•OLT now uses the term “Trail Ambassador” to describe volunteers who patrol the property during the day. There are currently over 70 of these Trail Ambassadors available to walk the property during the daytime. •OLT also has over 100 crew volunteers available to help maintain the property on a daily basis.
•The Preserve has 3 full-time staff, with one or more of these on-site virtually every day.
•OLT has ten Reveal cellular trail cameras on-site that are activated by animal or human movement. They record pictures and video of activities 24 hours a day. Three of these cameras are in the pond area in front of HOA Phase 1.
Respectively submitted by
Randy Grant
HOA Maintenance Committee Chair
On behalf of:
Capital Improvements Committee Chair - Abby Winston
Prescott Preserve Liaison Committee Chair - Greg Thomas
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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: March 25, 2026 BUSINESS & LEGISLATIVE
SUBJECT: INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 11.82.130(j)(1)
OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING VEHICLE
STORAGE FACILITIES FOR NON-CONSENSUAL TOWS
FROM: Scott C. Stiles, City Manager
BY: Jeffrey S. Ballinger, City Attorney
SUMMARY:
This agenda item provides the City Council with the opportunity to consider and introduce an ordinance that modifies the location requirements for vehicle storage facilities for non- consensual tows in Chapter 11.82 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code. Specifically, the ordinance would amend Section 11.82.130(j)(1) to allow contractors providing official police tow services to have vehicle storage facilities within City limits or within ten miles of City limits. This Ordinance would broaden the universe of potential bidders for these services, which would create more competition and more competitive tow rates for the City.
RECOMMENDATION:
Introduce Ordinance amending Section 11.82.130(j)(1) of the Palm Springs Municipal Code regarding vehicle storage facilities for non-consensual tows and schedule the Ordinance for adoption at a subsequent meeting.
BACKGROUND AND STAFF ANALYSIS:
The City of Palm Springs, through its Police Department, is sometimes called upon to arrange for the towing of vehicles, for instance, when the owner/operator is arrested, detained, incapacitated, or physically unable to drive the vehicle (aka a “non-consensual tow”).
Chapter 11.82 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code currently requires contractors who provide the non-consensual tow services to have vehicle storage facilities located within the corporate city limits of the City. This limits the potential pool of bidders when the City issues requests for qualifications for these services.
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City Council Staff Report
March 11, 2026 -- Page 2
Location of Vehicle Storage Facilities for Non-Consensual Tows Under the proposed Ordinance, the City Council would amend Section 11.82.130(j)(1) of the Palm Springs Municipal Code regarding vehicle storage facilities for non-consensual tows by allowing vehicle storage facilities to be located in or within ten miles of the corporate city limits of the City of Palm Springs.
The proposed Ordinance modifies the location requirement in order to expand the pool of potential bidders who can provide all of the required services. Expanding the pool of potential bidders increases competition, thereby creating more competitive tow rates, and potential cost savings to those whose vehicles are towed.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The proposed Ordinance is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) (Pub. Resources Code, § 21000 et seq.) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.) sections 15061(b)(3), and 15378(b)(5). Adoption of this Ordinance is an organizational and administrative activity of the City, does not have the potential to result in either a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, and is therefore not a project for purposes of CEQA. (State CEQA Guidelines, §§ 15061(b)(3); 15378(b)(5).) ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLANNING:
This agenda item aligns with the City Council’s goal of focusing on items that impact quality of life by promoting traffic and pedestrian safety.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This ordinance would likely result in cost savings to vehicle owners as a result of increased competition, though the specific amount cannot be precisely determined at this time.
REVIEWED BY:
Department Director: Andrew Mills, Police Chief
City Attorney: Jeffrey S. Ballinger
City Manager: Scott Stiles
ATTACHMENTS:
A. Ordinance amending Section 11.82.130(j)(1) of the Palm Springs Municipal Code regarding vehicle storage facilities for non-consensual tows.
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ATTACHMENT A
Ordinance
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ORDINANCE NO. ____
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION
11.82.130(j)(1) OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING VEHICLE STORAGE FACILITIES FOR NON-
CONSENSUAL TOWS
City Attorney’s Summary
This Ordinance amends Section 11.82.130(j)(1) in order to modify the location requirements for vehicle storage facilities.
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs, through its Police Department, is sometimes called upon to arrange for the towing of vehicles, for instance, when the owner/operator is arrested, detained, incapacitated, or physically unable to drive the vehicle (aka a “non- consensual tow”); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has adopted Chapter 11.82 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code, providing for a process for obtaining such non-consensual tow services from private tow operators, in order to, among other things, ensure that towing services are prompt, reasonably priced, and in the best interest of the public as well as the interest of efficient policing operations for the removal of vehicles from public streets; and WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the current code, which requires tow facilities to be located within the corporate boundaries of the City has resulted in reduced completion, and therefore desires to modify the location requirements for vehicle storage facilities.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. Incorporation of Recitals. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference as material findings in support of this Ordinance.
SECTION 2. Amendment of Section 11.82.130(j)(1). Subdivision (j)(1) of Section
11.82.130 of Chapter 11.82 of Title 11 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code, is hereby amended to read as follows:
“(j) Official police tow service shall have a secure and environmentally safe vehicle storage facility with a minimum of fifteen thousand usable square feet.
(1) The vehicle storage facility must be located in or within ten (10) miles of the corporate city limits of the city of Palm Springs. For purposes of measuring the ten (10) miles, distance shall be measured in driving distance.
*** ”
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Ordinance No. _____
9 7
5 SECTION 3. CEQA. Based upon the whole of the administrative record before it, the City Council hereby finds that the amendment to the location requirements for vehicle storage facilities is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) (Pub. Resources Code, § 21000 et seq.) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.) sections 15061(b)(3), and 15378(b)(5). Adoption of this Ordinance is an organizational and administrative activity of the City, does not have the potential to result in either a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment, and is therefore not a project for purposes of CEQA. (State CEQA Guidelines, §§ 15061(b)(3); 15378(b)(5).) Staff is hereby directed to prepare, execute and file with the Riverside County Clerk a CEQA Notice of Exemption within five (5) working days of the adoption of this Ordinance.
SECTION 4. Severability. If any section or provision of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, or contravened by reason of any preemptive legislation, the remaining sections and/or provisions of this Ordinance shall remain valid. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance, and each section or provision thereof, regardless of the fact that any one or more section(s) or provision(s) may be declared invalid or unconstitutional or contravened via legislation.
SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days following its adoption.
SECTION 6. Publication. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause a summary of the same to be published in the official newspaper of the City of Palm Springs within fifteen (15) days following its adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE PALM SPRINGS CITY
COUNCIL THIS _____ DAY OF ______________, 2026.
NAOMI SOTO
MAYOR
ATTEST:
BRENDA PREE, MMC
CITY CLERK
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Ordinance No. _____
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Ordinance No. _____
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5 CERTIFICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, BRENDA PREE, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, California, do hereby certify that Ordinance No. ____ is a full, true, and correct copy, and was introduced at a regular meeting of the Palm Springs City Council on _________ and adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council held on __________ by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the official seal of the City of Palm Springs, California, this ______ day of ______________, 2026.
BRENDA PREE, MMC
CITY CLERK
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*These time frames are for internal agenda management purposes only. It should not be relied on by any third party for purposes of establishing when an agenda item may actually be heard.
TENTATIVE UPCOMING MEETING SCHEDULE
Updated Wednesday, March 18, 2026
April 8 – Regular Meeting
• Plaza Theatre Update – Presentation (10 minutes)
• Hotel Incentive Agreement, The Cactai Hotel – Public Hearing (10 minutes) • Hotel Incentive Agreement, Terra Palm Springs – Public Hearing (10 minutes) • Library Naming Rights – Business & Legislative (15 minutes) • TID Resolution of Intention – Business & Legislative (10 minutes) • Discussion of City Mayoral Position – Business & Legislative (60 minutes) Total time: 2.0 hours
April 22 – Regular Meeting
• Blue Zones Palm Springs Update – Presentation (10 minutes) • CDBG Annual Action Plan – Public Hearing (15 minutes) • Hotel Incentive Agreement, Alcazar Palm Springs – Public Hearing (10 minutes) • Report of Employee Vacancies (AB 2561) – Business & Legislative (10 minutes)
May 12 – Regular Meeting
• Emergency Operations Update – Presentation (10 minutes)
May 27 – Regular Meeting
• Caravanserai Program Update – Presentation (10 minutes) • Delinquent Waste Disposal Charges – Public Hearing (15 minutes) • Q3 Financial Update – Business & Legislative (30 minutes)
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