Agenda packet — Palm Springs City Council, July 8, 2026 (part 6 of 6)

May 5, 2026
a. The site, structure, building, or object exhibits exceptional historic significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below:

Beyond its religious function, Temple Isaiah developed into an important cultural center within the community by opening its doors as a venue for concerts, community events, and early education initiatives. The temple also demonstrated an early commitment to the arts through the commissioning and display of art throughout the site.

For more than seventy-five years, Temple Isaiah has maintained a continuous presence as a religious, social, educational, and cultural center for Palm Springs. Its longstanding commitment to the local community as a gathering place reflects a broader pattern of events that has contributed in a meaningful manner to the cultural identity of the city. The site qualifies under Criterion i.
(Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history; Temple Isaiah contains several notable works of art that were commissioned specifically for this site, including pieces by Yaacov Agam, Erik Ray, and Victor Ries. While Frank Sinatra’s fundraising efforts and Rabbi Joseph Hurwitz’s leadership were important to the temple’s development, they do not meet Criterion ii because there is no evidence demonstrating a direct association with the property during their most productive periods nor is the site where they lived or made their most important contributions. Criterion ii is not met.
(Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, state or local history;
Constructed and re-envisioned during the post-war period, Temple Isaiah is a distinctive resource that captures multiple periods of religious architectural development. The original 1950-1952 design reflects the postwar adoption of Modernist design principles in Palm Springs, where civic and religious buildings emphasized simple forms, minimal ornamentation, and the use of utilitarian materials. As the congregation grew, the site adapted to the changing community needs. The addition of six classrooms in the 1960s reflects the integration of

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educational facilities onsite.

By the 1980s, the demand for a larger space resulted in a major expansion project to accommodate larger gatherings. Rather than removing or significantly altering the configuration of the original sanctuary, a new auditorium space was constructed, and the exterior appearance of the building adopted a contemporary design expression that reflected Late Modern/Brutalist design.

While the site embodies many significant iterations of design history, the original 1950s design of the Temple is no longer visible from the exterior. Its current appearance is a significant and distinctive example of architect David Christian’s work which exemplifies the architectural movement of the 1980s in Palm Springs.

Criterion iii is met.
(Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction;
In Palm Springs, Criterion iv evaluates whether a resource embodies distinctive characteristics associated with construction type, construction period, and construction methods. The construction of the temple appears to utilize conventional methods and materials. In contrast to the report’s analysis, 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;
Temple Isaiah reflects three distinct periods of architectural development in Palm Springs. The earliest phase, designed by E. Stewart Williams between 1950-1952, exemplifies Mid-Century Modern architecture for a religious building. In the 1960s, the addition by Wexler and Harrison complemented the original design using similar materials and compatible massing. All three architects associated with the site are recognized as master architects whose work has had a profound impact on the field.

Today, much of the earlier design is primarily experienced from the interior. The Liberman Chapel, with the reinforced concrete beams and white oak woodwork reflects the design aesthetic of E. Stewart Williams, and the use of utilitarian materials to create spatial organization represents the work of Wexler and Harrison. In the 1980s, architect David Christian re-envisioned the temple with a major expansion characterized by bold geometry, sweeping curves, and a sense of monumentality. Although the stucco exterior encapsulates the original building, the report indicates the earlier structure remains intact within the new building envelope.

Christian’s redesign of Temple Isaiah represents a dramatic design shift. The building now has a sculptural quality that is associated with the Late Modern and

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Brutalist-influenced architecture. While the individual contributions of earlier architects are less visible externally, the overall design of the building demonstrates a high level of artistic value, and the site collectively reflects the work of master architects. Criterion v 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
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. Criterion vii is not met.

SECTION 2: PART “B” ANALYSIS OF HISTORIC INTEGRITY.

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.

Temple Isaiah is evaluated based on the following topics of integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:

Location.

The Temple Isaiah at 332 West Alejo Road was constructed in the 1950s. The original building appears to still occupy the same location on site, but it is now covered by the exterior stucco finish. The site maintains its historic relationship with the surrounding landscape and context; thus, integrity of location is met.

Design.

The strongest design integrity is associated with the Late Modern/Brutalist period, as the original design by E. Stewart Williams and the Wexler/Harrison additions have been encapsulated and are no longer visible on the exterior. Although the interior features are not protected under the local preservation ordinance, the original sanctuary space remains largely intact and continues to exemplify the design principles of its period. The later expansion, significant in its own right, is highly representative of Late Modern design.

Its bold geometric forms, sculptural massing, and dramatic rooflines clearly convey the design intent of the 1980s. While the Mid-Century Modern phase has been substantially diminished externally, the property as a whole retains sufficient design integrity across multiple periods to communicate its design significance.

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Setting.

The temple structure is surrounded by residential development to the north and east, Welwood Murray Cemetery is to the west and the O’Donnell Golf Course to the south.

Based on the permit history, some stand-alone structures to the north were demolished but the overall character of the setting around the site remains similar to the conditions when it was first developed. The integrity of setting remains intact.

Materials.

The building materials from 1950-1952 consists of exposed concrete blocks, steel casement windows and precast concrete slabs. Most of this material remains encapsulated except for the north elevation and the interior space that remains extant.

The materials from David Christian’s design includes exterior stucco cladding, stained glass windows and clerestory glazing remain and visually unify the exterior design of the building. The integrity of material from all periods survives with an emphasis on the 1980s expansion.

Workmanship.

Although the material evidence of the earlier period is largely concealed, the high quality of workmanship is evident in the interior spaces. The craft and workmanship of the 1980s period of significance dominates the exterior and shows clean finishes and wellmaintained features. The integrity of workmanship is present.

Feeling.

The overall scale of the building underwent a significant transformation in the 1980s, and the design went from a simple rectilinear massing to an arced volume with a dramatic roofline. The use and function of the site as a community gathering space remains the key function and identity. While the appearance of the building has changed, the integrity of feeling of the site remains intact.

Association.

The original purpose of the site as a space for the Jewish community of Palm Springs remains unchanged. Its evolving architectural identity also is a testament to the community it serves. The integrity of association to the community remains strong and continues to be an architectural statement.

SECTION 3: DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS
In considering a recommendation for historic resource designation it is important to distinguish those physical elements that are original or from the period of significance from alterations, additions or features that were added at a later time. Distinguishing original character-defining features from non-original elements assists the HSPB when it is tasked with evaluating future alterations to the historic resource. Interior features and spatial arrangements are identified to emphasize their significance but fall outside the review authority of the HSPB and staff.

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HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD

STAFF REPORT
DATE: May 5, 2026 PUBLIC HEARING
SUBJECT: APPLICATION BY ROBERT WEINSTEIN FOR HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF THE TEMPLE ISAIAH LOCATED AT 332 WEST
ALEJO ROAD, (APN 505-313-007) CASE: HSPB #173, (SY).

FROM: Department of Planning Services

SUMMARY
The Temple Isaiah site is approximately 3.3 acres and was initially developed in 1952.

Since its original construction, the site has undergone a series of design phases, with the present configuration completed in 1987. Although the site has expanded from its modest beginnings into a larger complex, it has maintained a historically significant role as a religious and cultural center within the community.

If designated as a historic resource, the property would be subject to the regulations outlined in Section 8.05 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code.

RECOMMENDATION:

1. Open the public hearing and receive public testimony.

2. Close the public hearing and adopt Resolution HSPB #173, “A RESOLUTION OF

THE HISTORIC SITE PRESERVATION BOARD OF THE CITY OF PALM

SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL DESIGNATE “TEMPLE ISAIAH” LOCATED AT 332 WEST ALEJO ROAD, AS A CLASS 1 (LANDMARK) HISTORIC RESOURCE, HSPB #173, (APN #505-313- 007).”
BACKGROUND AND SETTING:

To accommodate the growing Jewish community in Palm Springs, architect E. Stewart Williams designed the first permanent facility between 1950 and 1952. Completed in the Modernist style, the building was modest in scale with a C-shaped plan, simple forms and exposed concrete block construction. The two-story sanctuary was a rectangular volume clad in precast concrete slabs embedded with pink granite chips incised with a Star of David. The space was designed for flexibility, supporting both religious services and community gatherings.

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In the early 1960s, architects Wexler and Harrison added a six-classroom addition, but it was the 1980s expansion that grew the site into the complex seen today. Architect David Christian transformed the existing building by encapsulating the original structure within a new stucco exterior and designed a new main auditorium space to the west of the existing building, making the complex more than three times its previous size. The design of the building transitioned from a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic to a Late Modern/Brutalist style. During this last design phase, parking and landscape design was modified. The detached building to the northeast corner is on the parcel but not analyzed for this application.

AERIAL VIEW OF THE SUBJECT PARCEL.

SOUTH ELEVATION FROM WEST ALEJO ROAD, 2025.

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SANCTUARY SPACE (LIBERMAN CHAPEL) DESIGNED BY E. STEWART WILLIAMS, 2025.

Related Relevant City Actions by HSPB, Planning, Fire, Building, etc.

May, 2026 Site inspection by members of the HSPB and City Staff.

Ownership Status
1951 Purchased by the current owner.

Historic Context Statement “Post-World War II (1945-1969)” Context: Post-World War II Palm Springs (1945-1969)
Theme: Post World War II Civic and Institutional Development (1945-1969) Registration Requirements: To be eligible under this theme, a property must:
 Date from the period of significance; and
 Reflect important civic or institutional development from the period; or  Represent an excellent example of an architectural style or property type; and
 Display most of the character-defining features of the property type or style; and
 Retain the essential aspects of historic integrity.

Context: Architectural Styles & Local Practitioners
Theme: Modern Styles of the Post-World War II Era

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Sub-theme: Mid-Century Modern
Sub-theme: Late Moderne
Sub-theme: Brutalist
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:

A historic resources report (“the report”), site visit, and city documents and forms are the basis of this staff report.

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:

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:

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a. The site, structure, building or object exhibits exceptional historic significance and meets one or more of the criteria listed below:

The following is an analysis of the Criterion and integrity findings for historic designation. (Criterion i) The resource is associated with events that have made a meaningful contribution to the nation, state or community; As a gathering space for the Jewish community in Palm Springs, many religious and community events were organized and held at this site. The report specifically notes a fundraising concert featuring Frank Sinatra that generated $4 million for the 1980s expansion; however, this event alone may not independently satisfy this Criterion. The property is directly associated with the development of the Jewish community in Palm Springs, and its continuous role as a social and cultural center for over 75 years demonstrates its significance as a site that reflects a broader pattern of events contributing to the growth of the local community. The site qualifies under Criterion i. (Criterion ii) The resource is associated with the lives of persons who made a meaningful contribution to national, state or local history; Temple Isaiah contains several notable works of art that were commissioned specifically for this site, including pieces by Yaacov Agam, Erik Ray, and Victor Ries. While Frank Sinatra’s fundraising efforts and Rabbi Joseph Hurwitz’s leadership were important to the temple’s development, they do not meet Criterion ii because there is no evidence demonstrating a direct association with the property during their most productive periods nor is the site where they lived or made their most important contributions. Criterion ii is not met.
(Criterion iii) The resource reflects or exemplifies a particular period of national, state or local history;
Constructed and re-envisioned during the post-war period, Temple Isaiah is a distinctive resource that captures multiple periods of religious architectural development. The original 1950-1952 design reflects the postwar adoption of Modernist design principles in Palm Springs, where civic and religious buildings emphasized simple forms, minimal ornamentation, and the use of utilitarian materials. As the congregation grew, the site adapted to the changing community needs. The addition of six classrooms in the 1960s reflects the integration of educational facilities onsite. By the 1980s, the demand for a larger space resulted in a major expansion project to accommodate larger gatherings.

Rather than removing or significantly altering the configuration of the original sanctuary, a new auditorium space was constructed, and the exterior appearance of the building adopted a contemporary design expression that reflected Late Modern/Brutalist design.

Although the architectural identity of Temple Isaiah has evolved, the site as a whole exemplifies the progression of postwar development in Palm Springs, therefore meets Criterion iii.

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(Criterion iv) The resource embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction;
In Palm Springs, Criterion iv evaluates whether a resource embodies distinctive characteristics associated with construction type, construction period, and construction methods. The construction of the temple appears to utilize conventional methods and materials. In contrast to the report’s analysis, 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;
Temple Isaiah reflects three distinct periods of architectural development in Palm Springs.

The earliest phase, designed by E. Steward Williams between 1950-1952, exemplifies Mid-Century Modern architecture for a religious building. In the 1960s, the addition by Wexler and Harrison complemented the original design using similar materials and compatible massing. All three architects associated with the site are recognized as master architects whose work has had a profound impact on the field.

Christian’s redesign of Temple Isaiah represents a dramatic design shift. The building now has a sculptural quality that is associated with the Late Modern and Brutalistinfluenced architecture. While the individual contributions of earlier architects are less visible externally, the overall design of the building demonstrates a high level of artistic value, and the site collectively reflects the work of master architects. Criterion v 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
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. Criterion vii is not met.

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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.

Temple Isaiah is evaluated based on the following topics of integrity based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards:

Location.

Design.

The strongest design integrity is associated with the Late Modern/Brutalist period, as the original design by E. Steward Williams and the Wexler/Harrison additions have been encapsulated and are no longer visible on the exterior. Although the interior features are not protected under the local preservation ordinance, the original sanctuary space remains largely intact and continues to exemplify the design principles of its period. The later expansion, significant in its own right, is highly representative of Late Modern design.

Setting.

The temple structure is surrounded by residential development to the north and east, Welwood Murray Cemetery is to the west and the O’Donnell Golf Course to the south.

Materials.

Workmanship.

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maintained features. The integrity of workmanship is present.

Feeling.

Association.

DEFINING HISTORIC CHARACTERISTICS:

In considering a recommendation for historic resource designation it is important to distinguish those physical elements that are original or from the period of significance from alterations, additions or features that were added later. Distinguishing original character-defining features from non-original elements assists the HSPB when it is tasked with evaluating future alterations to the historic resource.

Character-defining features on page 18 of the historic resources report and the staff analysis of important features are listed as follows. Interior features and spatial arrangements are identified to emphasize their significance but fall outside the review authority of the HSPB and staff.

Overall Massing and Form
• Composition of canted geometric forms dominated by upswept main sanctuary volume
• Two-level structure integrating basement and main level functions • Dramatically curved, upswept roofline rising toward Mt. San Jacinto • Heavy geometric massing with sloping profiles referencing Pueblo architectural traditions
• Long horizontal volumes punctuated by vertical elements • Integration of sculptural roof forms with functional spatial organization Exterior Materials and Finishes
• White stucco facade on metal studs encapsulating original Williams building • Consistent white finish unifying multiple building phases • Long series of louvered stucco vertical fins on side elevations • Textural variation through angular planes and shadow lines • Desert-appropriate material palette emphasizing permanence and solidity

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Rooflines and Roof Forms
• Dramatically curved west elevation roofline creating sculptural silhouette suggesting spiritual uplift
• Sawtooth roofline composed of triangular clerestory elements providing rhythmic modulation
• Sweeping curved roof over sanctuary as dominant architectural element • Angular fascia wrapping and integrating earlier Williams structure • Complex interplay of flat, sloped, and curved roof planes Fenestration and Glazing
• Eighteen angular windows punctuating façades on two sides (The word chai means "life" in Hebrew, making the number 18 a powerful symbol of good luck and well-being).
• Panoramic window above Bimah with 12 panes of glass representing 12 tribes of Israel
• Fixed glass panels facing west in vertical fins
• Continuous band of dark-tinted recessed glazing wrapping sanctuary volume • Clerestory windows creating sophisticated natural light choreography • Strategic window placement balancing light, views, and privacy • Deep reveals and recessed glazing creating pronounced shadow lines Landscape Integration
• Xeriscape planting with gravel beds and native/adapted species • Tall fan palms providing vertical punctuation
• Spherically-trimmed shrubs as uniform landscape elements • Terracing and grading responding to site topography
• White retaining walls defining circulation and grade changes • Desert planting reinforcing integration with Palm Springs context • Mountain views framed as integral design element
Interior Spatial Organization - Main Level
• Large south lobby (Vener Reception Hall) running length of new wing • Bochner Sanctuary seating 500, expandable to 700 with adjacent Levy Hall • Levy Hall with dramatic clerestory windows framing mountain and palm tree views • Long north lobby for secondary circulation
• East lobby with adjacent professional kitchen
• Warsaw Ballroom for social and event space
• Conference room, library, and administrative offices
• Non-traditional sanctuary orientation facing west toward mountains rather than east toward Jerusalem
Interior Spatial Organization - Basement Level
• Large central multi-purpose/classroom space
• Mechanical rooms, storage rooms, warming kitchen

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• Support facilities including bathrooms, janitor's room, bride's room • Efficient circulation connecting functional spaces
Interior Finishes and Details
• Color-graduated upholstery on the pews coordinated with Agam ark: muted blue at front (near bimah) transitioning through pinkish hue to red at back • Interior design by Cathleen Jones in collaboration with Yaacov Agam • Integration of artistic elements with architectural design Site Features and Context
• Alejo Road frontage establishing primary public identity • Service areas discreetly located
• Integration with surrounding residential neighborhood scale • Dramatic San Jacinto Mountains backdrop as designed visual element Surviving Williams Elements (1949-1952)
Exterior:
• North elevation brick construction (now painted white) retaining textural variation • Original steel casement windows with slender Mid-Century profiles • Foundation and structural elements incorporated into Christian expansion • Precast concrete panels embedded with pink granite chips (Mo-Sai panels) with the Star of David pattern inscribed on the surface.

Interior:
• Exposed reinforced concrete beams (bents) left unpainted on ceiling and walls • Naturally finished white oak woodwork with clear lacquer on altar, choir screen, Ark, and trim
• Sandblasted and stained ceiling in soft mulberry color • Cantilevered stairs
• Small choir enclosure (seating 12) with small organ console below high windows • Single eternal light hanging from ceiling
Non-contributing elements:
• Modern mechanical equipment and rooftop installations • Updated life and safety systems (fire alarm, sprinkler, emergency lighting) • Contemporary signage not part of original Christian design • Parking lot configuration
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.

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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:

Temple Isaiah is an exceptional resource that embodies multiple periods of significance by meeting Criterion i, iii and v; therefore, staff recommends Class 1 designation to recognize the site as an important cultural landmark.

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

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EXCERPTS OF MINUTES
At the Historic Site Preservation Board meeting of the City of Palm Springs, held May 5, 2026, the Historic Site Preservation Board took the following action:
2A. AN APPLICATION BY ROBERT WEINSTEIN FOR HISTORIC SITE DESIGNATION OF TEMPLE ISAIAH LOCATED AT 332 WEST ALEJO
ROAD, (APN # 505-131-007), CASE: HSPB #173, (SY).

Historic Preservation Officer Yoon summarized the information in the staff report and answered questions from the board.

Steven Keylon and Robert Weinstein (representatives for the applicant and applicant) spoke and answered questions from the board.

Public Comment:

Michael Frydrych and Susan Missner (community members) spoke in favor of the historic designation application.

Motion by Member Paonessa, seconded by Member Herr to adopt a draft resolution for HSPB #173, that the City Council designate Temple of Isaiah as a historic Class 1 site with amendments to the list of the character-defining features and revisions to the criteria analysis. This action is not a project pursuant to CEQA.

AYES: Hansen, Bachman, Herr, Paonessa.

NOES: None.

ABSENT: Maschka Hitchcock, McCready.

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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JULY 8, 2026 BUSINESS & LEGISLATIVE
SUBJECT: REINTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE

CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING CHAPTER 5.55 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL

CODE REGARDING CANNABIS CONSUMPTION LOUNGES
FROM: Scott C. Stiles, City Manager
BY: Special Program Compliance
SUMMARY:

This agenda item is for the reintroduction and first reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 5.55 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code (“PSMC”) related to cannabis consumption lounges consistent with Assembly Bill 1775 (“AB 1775”).

AB 1775 amended Section 26200 of the California Business and Professions Code and authorizes local jurisdictions to permit licensed cannabis retailers and microbusinesses to prepare and sell non-cannabis infused food and nonalcoholic beverages within approved cannabis consumption lounges, subject to compliance with State law and local regulations.

Following introduction of the prior Ordinance and subsequent public comment, staff conducted additional review of the proposed operational standards and recommended revisions. The revised Ordinance clarifies allowable activities, refines operational requirements, and maintains safeguards related to public health, employee safety, nuisance prevention, security, and neighborhood compatibility. The revised Ordinance also incorporates operational modifications in response to stakeholder feedback while preserving the City’s local regulatory authority under AB 1775.

RECOMMENDATION:

Waive the reading of text in its entirety, read by title only, and introduce for first reading Ordinance entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 5.55 OF THE PALM

SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING CANNABIS CONSUMPTION
LOUNGES”.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 2
Reintroduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.55 of the Municipal Code BACKGROUND:

On September 30, 2024, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1775 into law.

AB 1775 amended Section 26200 of the California Business and Professions Code and expanded the activities that local jurisdictions may authorize within licensed cannabis consumption lounges.

Specifically, AB 1775 allows local jurisdictions to permit:
 Preparation and sale of non-cannabis-infused food and nonalcoholic beverages within cannabis consumption areas;
 Live musical performances, entertainment activities and tickets to both; and  Additional operational activities subject to local regulation and permitting requirements.

Importantly, AB 1775 is permissive legislation and does not require local jurisdictions to authorize any expanded cannabis lounge activities. The statute expressly preserves local authority to impose operational standards, permitting requirements, land use controls, and public safety regulations.

Palm Springs has historically been a leader in the regulation of cannabis businesses and currently permits cannabis consumption lounges pursuant to Chapter 5.55 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code. There are currently six operational cannabis lounges within the City, with additional approved facilities pending completion.

On November 26, 2025, the City Council introduced an ordinance implementing portions of AB 1775. Following introduction, public comments and operational concerns were reviewed by staff. Staff subsequently reviewed the proposed Ordinance and recommended revisions intended to provide operational flexibility while maintaining reasonable public health, safety, and nuisance-prevention standards.

STAFF ANALYSIS:

The revised Ordinance maintains the City’s existing regulatory framework while implementing limited operational expansions authorized by State law.

The proposed amendments are intended to:
 Support existing licensed cannabis businesses;
 Provide operational clarity; and
 Ensure continued compliance with State cannabis regulations and public health standards.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 3
Reintroduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.55 of the Municipal Code Under AB 1775 and the proposed Ordinance:
 Cannabis consumption areas remain restricted to individuals 21 years of age and older;
 Cannabis consumption may not be visible from any public place;  Alcohol and tobacco products remain prohibited;
 Food and beverage operations must comply with the California Retail Food Code;  Cannabis consumption remains prohibited within food preparation, storage, and warewashing areas; and
 Operators must comply with all applicable health, ventilation, odor control, and employee safety requirements.

The Ordinance also maintains operational requirements related to:
 Ventilation and odor mitigation systems;
 Licensed security personnel;
 Employee health and safety protections;
 Security and loitering prevention;
 Age verification requirements; and
 Compliance with all applicable California Department of Cannabis Control regulations.

Summary of Requested Changes and Staff Response
Staff reviewed stakeholder comments and requested revisions in conjunction with AB 1775 and applicable State cannabis regulations. While AB 1775 authorizes local jurisdictions to permit expanded cannabis lounge activities, the legislation expressly preserves local discretion to establish operational limitations and public safety standards.

Recommended Revisions Incorporated Into the Ordinance
Operating Hours – Section 5.55.550 (A)
The prior Ordinance proposed lounge operating hours for events commencing at 10:00 a.m. and concluding at midnight. One stakeholder requested consistency with State retail cannabis operating hours.

The revised Ordinance modifies lounge operating hours to permit operation beginning at 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., consistent with State cannabis retail regulations1. 1 California Code of Regulations, Title 4, Section 15403

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 4
Reintroduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.55 of the Municipal Code Manager Presence Requirement – Section 5.55.570 (D)
The prior Ordinance required a manager to be physically present inside the lounge whenever customers were present.

Following operational review, the revised Ordinance modifies this requirement to allow operational flexibility while still requiring:
 Adequate onsite staffing;
 Continuous security monitoring;
 Manager availability on the licensed premises; and
 Compliance with all applicable security and operational requirements.

Ticketed Events – Section 5.55.500 (B)
The prior Ordinance limited ticketed events to lounges greater than 600 square feet as a local operational, crowd-control, and life-safety standard.

Following review, the Ordinance removes the square-footage restriction and allows all lounges to host ticketed events, subject to:
 Occupancy limitations; and
 Security and operational plans.

Requested Changes Not Recommended
Outdoor Events Adjacent to Alcohol or Tobacco Retail Establishments – Section

5.55.500 (C)
A stakeholder requested removal of restrictions prohibiting outdoor events adjacent to alcohol or tobacco retail establishments.

Staff does not recommend removal of this provision. State law prohibits alcohol and tobacco sales and consumption on cannabis lounge premises, and the restriction provides an additional operational safeguard intended to minimize enforcement conflicts, nuisance conditions, and potential commingling concerns associated with outdoor events.

Extended Midnight Operating Hours – Section 5.55.550 (A) A stakeholder requested expanded operating hours until midnight for all lounges.

Staff does not recommend extending lounge operating hours. All lounges will be required to cease operations at 10:00 p.m. to help minimize enforcement conflicts, nuisance conditions, and safety concerns.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 5
Reintroduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.55 of the Municipal Code Food and Cannabis Storage/Display Restrictions – Section 5.55.585 (C) Stakeholders requested removal of restrictions prohibiting food or beverage products from being stored or commingled with cannabis products.

AB 1775 requires that non-cannabis food and beverages not be contaminated by, or commingled with cannabis products, and prohibits cannabis consumption in food preparation, storage, or warewashing areas.

The specific requirement regarding contamination and commingling means lounges must enforce several strict operational guidelines:
• Separation of Products: All non-cannabis food and beverages must be stored, displayed, and prepared in areas completely separate and distinct from where cannabis and cannabis products are kept.
• No Cross-Contamination: Kitchen staff, serving areas, and ventilation systems must be structured to shield non-cannabis food items from airborne cannabis smoke, vapor, or residue.
• Strict Public Health Standards: Food preparation and sales must fully comply with the rigorous requirements of the California Retail Food Code, ensuring standard restaurant sanitation standards are maintained.

The proposed Ordinance’s language is broad because it prohibits storing, displaying, contaminating, or commingling food or beverages with cannabis products anywhere on site. While not recommended to remove, Staff has clarified the language, so it does not unintentionally prohibit lawful cannabis display or storage in approved dispensary areas, while still prohibiting commingling.

Additional Ordinance Cleanup
The revised Ordinance also corrects inconsistencies identified during staff review, including clarifying language in Section 5.55.590 regarding impaired customers to expressly prohibit the provision of cannabis products to obviously impaired individuals.

Staff believes the revised Ordinance provides a balanced regulatory approach that supports existing cannabis businesses while preserving the City’s ability to regulate impacts related to public health, safety, and neighborhood compatibility.

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:

This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is the adoption of an ordinance, rule, or regulation that requires discretionary review, including environmental review, and approval of permits, licenses, or other authorizations to engage in commercial cannabis activity (CEQA Guidelines section 15061(B)(1),

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 6
Reintroduction and First Reading of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.55 of the Municipal Code California Business and Professions Code section 26055(h)) and because it does not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment (CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3)).

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLANNING:

This item aligns with the following City Council Strategic Plan Broad Goal: Economic Development.

FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no immediate fiscal impact associated with the adoption of the proposed Ordinance. Over time, expanded operational opportunities for licensed cannabis lounges may result in increased sales tax and cannabis tax revenue.

REVIEWED BY:

Department Director: Veronica Goedhart
Assistant City Manager: Teresa Gallavan
City Manager: Teresa Gallavan for Scott Stiles
ATTACHMENTS:

A. Proposed Ordinance

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Attachment A
Proposed Ordinance

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Ordinance No. 2121

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ORDINANCE NO. 2121

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 5.55 OF THE PALM

SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE, RELATING TO THE

CONSUMPTION OF CANNABIS AND CANNABIS

PRODUCTSREGARDING CANNABIS CONSUMPTION

LOUNGES
City Attorney’s Summary
This ordinance amends the City of Palm Springs’ existing cannabis lounge business ordinance in order to authorize certain activities within cannabis lounges, in accordance with Assembly Bill 1775 (2024).

WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs is a charter city organized pursuant to Article XI of the California Constitution and pursuant to the authority granted the City by Section 5 of Article XI, the City has the power to make and enforce within its limits all ordinances and regulations in respect to municipal affairs not in conflict with general laws and its own charter. Such police powers include without limitation the ability to adopt comprehensive zoning regulations and regulations upon the use of land and property within the City; and
WHEREAS, the consumer landscape of cannabis is constantly evolving and innovating in the wake of a legalized market; and
WHEREAS, many states and municipalities are now recognizing the onsite consumption of cannabis as a profitable and sensible addition to the regulated cannabis market; and
WHEREAS, the City has established clear rules for the regulation of onsite cannabis consumption, and this has stimulated the growth of various cannabis businesses; and
WHEREAS, existing law authorizes a cannabis business in Palm Springs to operate a dispensary and to obtain a permit in order for cannabis to be consumed on the premises of the dispensary; and
WHEREAS, as authorized by Assembly Bill 1775 (2024), this ordinance would allow the preparation andor sale of non-cannabis food or beverage products by a licensed retailer in those areas where the consumption of cannabis is allowed, and to allow, and to sell the sale of tickets for, live musical or other performances on the premises of a licensed retailer in those areas where the consumption of cannabis is

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allowed, and establish standards for the City’s cannabis consumption lounges; and WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered all of the evidence presented in connection with the proposed ordinance, including, but not limited to, the staff report, and all written and oral testimony presented.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference as material findings in support of this Ordinance.

SECTION 2. Chapter 5.55 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code is hereby bifurcated into two (2) Articles, and the Chapter 5.55, as it exists immediately prior to the effective date of this Ordinance, is hereby designated as Chapter 5.55, Article I.

SECTION 3. Section 5.55.050 of Chapter 5.55, Article I, of the Palm Springs Municipal Code (Definitions) is hereby amended as follows:

A. The definition of “cannabis lounge” is hereby amended to read as follows:
“Cannabis lounge” or “cannabis consumption lounge” means a separate parcel or segregated tenant space, other than in a private residence or at an event held pursuant to section 5.55.100, with valid authorization, where cannabis or cannabis products are consumed.

B. A new definition for “cannabis consumption lounge operator” is hereby added to read as follows:
“Cannabis consumption lounge operator” means a cannabis dispensary permittee who is authorized to operate a cannabis consumption lounge in accordance with this chapter.

C. A new definition for “smoking” is hereby added as follows:
“Smoking” or “smoke” (when used as a verb) means inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, or pipe, or any other lighted or heated tobacco or plant product intended for inhalation, whether natural or synthetic, in any manner or in any form. “Smoking” includes the use of an electronic smoking device that creates an aerosol or vapor, in any manner or in any form, or the use of any oral smoking device for the purpose of circumventing the prohibition of smoking.

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D. A new definition for “vaping” is hereby added to read as follows:
“Vaping” means to inhale vapor from a device that heats up and vaporizes a liquid or solid.

SECTION 4. A new Article II of Chapter 5.55 of the Palm Springs Municipal Code (Cannabis Consumption Lounges) is hereby added to read as follows:
“Chapter 5.55, Article II (Cannabis Lounges)

5.55.480. Provisions not Exclusive.

5.55.490 Prohibition on Consumption of Cannabis.

5.55.500 Authorization Required to Operate Cannabis
Consumption Lounge

5.55.510 Site Management Requirements.

5.55.515 Cannabis Consumption Lounge Premises Restrictions.

5.55.520 Ventilation Requirements.

5.55.530 Authorization To Operate Must Be Displayed.

5.55.535 Worker Protections.

5.55.540 Required Health Warnings.

5.55.545 Waste Containers.

5.55.550 Operating Hours.

5.55.560 Age Restriction.

5.55.570 Personnel Requirements.

5.55.580 Consumption Of Cannabis and Cannabis Products On Site.

5.55.585 Consumption of Prepackaged Food and Beverages.

5.55.590 Customer Conduct.

5.55.480 Provisions not Exclusive.

Except as more specifically provided in this Article II, Article I of Chapter 5.55 shall apply to Cannabis Lounges.

5.55.490 Prohibition on Consumption of Cannabis.

A. No cannabis business, its manager, its employee, or person with an ownership interest, shall allow any person to smoke, ingest, or otherwise consume cannabis products on its site, or within 20 feet of the site, except as described in this chapter.

B. No cannabis business, its manager, its employee, or person with an ownership interest, shall permit, aid, abet, or conceal the smoking,

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ingesting, or other consumption of cannabis or cannabis products on its site in violation of this code.

C. Each cannabis dispensary that is not authorized to operate a cannabis lounge must have a sign prominently displayed stating, “Smoking, ingesting, or consuming cannabis or cannabis products on this site or in a public place is prohibited.”

5.55.500 Authorization Required to Operate Cannabis Consumption Lounge
A. No person shall operate a cannabis consumption lounge without first having received from the City a valid cannabis dispensary permit with a condition that expressly authorizes the operation of a lounge in accordance with this article.

B. A cannabis dispensary permit may be authorized to allow the operation of a cannabis consumption lounge with one of one or more of the following types of conditions:
(a) Preparation and sale of non-cannabis infused food.
(b) Delivery and service of non-cannabis infused food.
(c) Host non-ticketed events and host up to twenty-four (24) ticketed events per year, subject to the provisions of this chapter.

1. Type 1 (Less than 600 sq. ft.). A type 1 condition on a valid cannabis dispensary permittee authorizes a cannabis
dispensary permittee to allow the preparation and sale of food and host non-ticketed events, subject to the provisions of this chapter.

2. Type 2 (600 sq. ft. or larger). A type 2 condition on a valid dispensary permit authorizes a cannabis dispensary
permittee to allows persons to allow the preparation and sale of food, host non-ticketed events, and host up to twenty-four (24) ticketed events per year, subject to the provisions of this chapter.

C. Cannabis lounges may apply to host outdoor special events utilizing the City’s land use permit process by completing an application through the Department of Special Program Compliance and shall comply with all applicable conditions of approval, public

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safety requirements, and nuisance mitigation standards established by the City will be subject to the conditions of approval to operate said events. Cannabis lounges located adjacent to a site that sells primarily alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or tobacco products on the site may not operate outdoor events.

D. Cannabis Lounges may apply to operate an onsite kitchen facility.

Operators must comply with both State and Riverside County regulations. Additionally, all proposed kitchen facilities must be inspected by the City to determine that the facility is safe to occupy and suitable for the intended use.

5.55.510 Site Management Requirements.

Notwithstanding any other provision of the code, a cannabis lounge consumption operator shall:

A. Prevent and eliminate nuisances on its site, including the unlawful consumption of cannabis and cannabis products;
B. Maintain the exterior of the site, including any parking lots under the control of the permittee, free of litter, debris, and trash; C. Properly store and dispose of all waste generated on the site, including chemical and organic waste, in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations; and
D. Make cannabis and cannabis products unusable and
unrecognizable before discarding them.

E. Maintain sanitary surfaces and devices. Sanitation and cleaning frequency. Each cannabis consumption lounges shall ensure that:

1. The surfaces, utensils, and reusable devices that have direct contact with cannabis products are adequately washed, rinsed and sanitized.

1. 2. After being cleaned, surfaces of equipment, utensils, and reusable devices that have direct contact with cannabis products are sanitized in:
a) Hot water manual operations by immersion for at least 30 seconds with a temperature of 170°F (77°C) or
above;

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b) Hot water mechanical operations by being cycled
through equipment that is set up and achieving a
utensil surface temperature of 160°F (71°C) as
measured by an irreversible registering temperature
indicator; or
c) Chemical manual or mechanical operations, including, without limitation, the application of sanitizing
chemicals by immersion, manual swabbing, brushing
or pressure spraying methods using a solution as
specified on the manufacturer’s label use instructions
that are approved by the Environmental Protection
Agency, by providing an exposure time of at least 30
seconds unless the manufacturer’s label use
instructions provide otherwise.

3. If the surfaces of utensils or equipment come into contact with potentially hazardous cannabis products and ingredients, the surfaces and utensils are cleaned throughout the day at least once every 4 hours.

4. The surfaces of utensils and equipment that have direct contact with cannabis products and ingredients that are not potentially hazardous are cleaned:
a) At any time when contamination may have occurred;
and
b) In equipment, including, without limitation, ice bins and beverage dispensing nozzles, and enclosed
components of equipment, such as ice makers,
cooking oil storage tanks and distribution lines,
beverage and syrup dispensing lines or tubes, coffee
bean grinders and water vending equipment:
(1) At a frequency specified by the manufacturer; or
(2) If the manufacturer does not specify a frequency,
at a frequency necessary to prevent the
accumulation of soil or mold.

State and local public health regulatory agencies may require permits and/or conduct inspections related to the services offered at the cannabis consumption lounge.

G. Any preparation or sale of noncannabis food or beverage products shall be in compliance with all applicable provisions of the California Retail Food Code (Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 113700) of Part 7 of Division 104 of the Health and Safety Code).

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5.55.515 Cannabis Consumption Lounge Premises Restrictions.

A. Enclosed. A cannabis consumption lounge must be indoors and fully enclosed.

B. Not visible to the public. Cannabis consumption shall not be visible from any public place, non-age-restricted areas, the any unsecured areas surrounding the buildings on the site, or the site’s main entrance and lobby.

C. Partitioned. A cannabis consumption lounge must be separated from all other areas of the cannabis dispensary by solid walls and doors. The wall may include glass to provide visibility between the dispensary and the lounge.

D. Soundproof. A cannabis consumption lounge must be adequately soundproofed so that the interior noise does not violate chapter

11.74 (Noise Ordinance).

E. Licensed Security Personnel. A cannabis consumption lounge shall have adequate state-licensed security personnel to patrol the site and the area within 100 feet of the site to preserve the safety of persons and to protect the site from theft. All security personnel shall possess a valid California Department of Consumer Affairs security guard license while on duty on the site.

F. Loitering in or around the business cannabis consumption lounge is prohibited, and the cannabis consumption operator shall ensure the absence of loitering.

G. Smoking or vaporizing of any cannabis product by an employee or customer is not allowed in the food preparation, food storage, or warewashing area of a food facility located on the premises. For purposes of this subparagraph, the following definitions apply:
(I) “Food facility” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 113789 of the Health and Safety Code.
(II) “Warewashing” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 113940 of the Health and Safety Code.

5.55.520 Ventilation Requirements.

A. The cannabis consumption lounge shall be designed to have

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negative pressure to limit, to the extent possible, leakage of smoke and particulate matter into the non-smoking areas of the site; B. The lounge shall have an HVAC system that does not recirculate air and that has a high rate of air exchange; and
C. The lounge shall have an odor-absorbing ventilation and exhaust system that prevents the odor from inside of the lounge from being detected outside of the site or within any other area located within the same building as the lounge.

5.55.530 Authorization To Operate Must Be Displayed.

A cannabis consumption lounge operator shall display a valid cannabis permit with a condition that authorizes the operation of a cannabis consumption lounge in a conspicuous place inside of the lounge so that all persons inside of the lounge may readily see it.

Additionally, at the entrance of the lounge, a sign must be posted that states, “Cannabis consumption, including smoking and vaping, is allowed inside of this lounge. No person under 21 years of age shall be in the lounge.” The sign must be posted in a conspicuous place so that all persons entering the cannabis lounge may readily see it. The sign must be clearly legible and not less than 8 inches by 10 inches in size.

5.55.535 Worker Protections.

A. Employees shall be permitted at their discretion and without penalty or sanction to wear a mask for respiration, including N95 and NIOSH N95 rated masks in any area where cannabis is smoked.

Employers are required to pay for such masks.

B. When hired, employees who will be working where cannabis is smoked shall be provided in writing the Department of Public Health or its successor’s guidance regarding secondhand cannabis smoke.

C. A cannabis consumption lounge that offers on-site consumption of cannabis products shall include secondhand smoke in their analysis of potential work hazards for purposes of their injury and illness prevention programs required by Section 3203 of Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations.

5.55.540 Required Health Warnings.

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A cannabis consumption lounge operator shall display signs designated by the city that address the health impacts of the consumption of cannabis. The signs must be displayed at the entrance to the lounge in a conspicuous place so that all persons entering the cannabis consumption lounge may readily see it.

5.55.545 Waste Containers.

Cannabis consumption lounge operators shall include properly maintained solid waste, organic waste, and recycling containers in sufficient numbers and locations to service the needs of the lounge.

5.55.550 Operating Hours.

A. All cannabis consumption lounges may operate between the hours of 6:00 a.m. 10:00 am and 10:00 pm.

B. Type 2 cannabis consumption lounges, as defined in Section

5.55.500(B), may host ticketed events with extended operating hours and may operate between the hours of 10:00 am and 12:00 am. All sales of cannabis must cease at 10:00 pm. Cannabis sales beyond 10:00 pm are prohibited, and noncompliance shall constitute a violation of the permit issued and shall render the permittee subject to suspension or revocation of such permit.

5.55.560 Age Restriction.

A. Access to any area where cannabis consumption is allowed shall be restricted to persons 21 years of age or older and each entrance to any such area shall be prominently posted with a warning that cannabis consumption, including smoking of cannabis, is permitted inside.

B. No cannabis consumption lounge operator shall allow any violation of this section.

5.55.570 Personnel Requirements.

A. Operator age limit. No person under 21 years of age shall operate a cannabis consumption lounge in any capacity, including as a manager, employee, contractor, or volunteer.

B. Education and training. The cannabis consumption lounge operator shall educate their managers, and employees, and volunteers about the various types of cannabis and cannabis products allowed

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in the consumption lounge, including the potency, absorption time, and effects; and shall train their managers, employees, and volunteers to likewise educate customers on their purchases. The cannabis lounge operator shall also train their managers, employees, and volunteers to recognize signs of impairment in their customers.

C. Community relations employee. The cannabis lounge operator shall designate an employee as their onsite community-relations contact; provide their name and phone number by certified mail to all owners and tenants of neighboring properties within 100 feet of the site; and advise them to notify the community-relations contact if there are operational problems with the lounge that impact the neighborhood. The cannabis consumption lounge operator shall also provide the name and phone number by amil e-mail to all owners and tenants of neighboring properties within 100 feet of the site; and advise them to notify the community relations contact if there are operational problems with the lounge that impact the neighborhood. The cannabis consumption lounge operator shall also provide the name and phone number of the onsite community relations contact to the Department of Special Program
Compliance.

D. The cannabis business consumption lounge operator shall ensure that during the consumption lounge hours of operation:
a) Adequate onsite staffing;
b) Continuous security monitoring;
c) Manager availability on the licensed premises; and
d) Compliance with all security and operational requirements outlined in Sections 5.55.200; 5.55.205; and 5.55.210.

Manager. The cannabis consumption lounge operator’s manager shall be in the lounge whenever there is a customer in the lounge.

5.55.580 Consumption Of Cannabis and Cannabis Products On Site.

A. Consumption in lounge only. No person shall consume cannabis or cannabis products aton a cannabis lounge in any area other than within the authorized portions of a licensed cannabis consumption lounge, or as authorized by a land use permit.

B. No cannabis consumption lounge operator shall allow any person

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to consume in the lounge any cannabis or cannabis product that was not purchased from the associated dispensary.

5.55.585 Consumption of Prepackaged Food and Beverages.

A. No cannabis consumption lounge operator shall sell or provide for free any cannabis or cannabis products inside the lounge area.

B. No cannabis consumption lounge operator may sell or provide for free any non-cannabis food or beverages inside the lounge unless such food and beverageit does not contain cannabis or alcohol.

C. No cannabis consumption lounge operator shall allow any cannabis or cannabis product to be stored, displayed, served or otherwise handled in a manner that results in contamination of, or co-mingling with, any food or beverage product. Food and beverage products shall be maintained, prepared, and served in compliance with all applicable State and local health and safety laws and regulations.

C. No cannabis consumption lounge operator shall store, display, contaminate, or commingle any food or beverage with any cannabis or cannabis product on the site.

5.55.590 Customer Conduct.

A. Closing announcement. One hour before the closing time of the lounge and at the closing time, the cannabis consumption lounge operator or their manager shall announce the closing time of the lounge and request that customers respect the residents of the adjacent neighbors by being quiet when leaving.

B. Retail limit. No cannabis consumption lounge operator or its manager, employee, or volunteer shall provide cannabis or cannabis products to obviously impaired customers.

C. Car services. A cannabis consumption lounge operator shall provide written information on ridesharing and ride-hailing car services for their customers.

D. Alcohol/Tobacco. The sale or consumption of alcohol or tobacco is prohibited on the cannabis consumption lounge premises.”

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D. Entry and exit of the lounge. A cannabis consumption lounge operator or its manager, employee, or volunteer shall provide cannabis or cannabis products to obviously impaired customers.

SECTION 4. The City Council finds that the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it is the adoption of an ordinance, rule, or regulation that requires discretionary review, including environmental review, and approval of permits, licenses, or other authorizations to engage in commercial cannabis activity (California Business and Professions Code section 26055(h)) and because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment (CEQA Guidelines section 15061(b)(3)).

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED BY THE PALM SPRINGS CITY
COUNCIL THIS _____ DAY OF ______________, 2026.

NAOIMI NAOMI SOTO, MAYOR
ATTEST:

BRENDA PREE, MMC, CERA

CITY CLERK

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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 ______________, _________.

BRENDA PREE, MMC, CERA

CITY CLERK

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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JULY 8, 2026 BUSINESS & LEGISLATIVE
SUBJECT: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A PALM TREE TRIMMING

POLICY, AND SUPERSEDING ALL PREVIOUS PALM TREE TRIMMING

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES
FROM: Scott C. Stiles, City Manager
BY: David McAbee, Director of Public Works
SUMMARY:

Adoption of this resolution will approve a policy to allow for the removal of dry fronds from California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) within the City’s right-of-way, City parks and other City property.

RECOMMENDATION:
1) Adopt a Resolution entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A PALM TREE TRIMMING

POLICY, AND SUPERSEDING ALL PREVIOUS PALM TREE TRIMMING

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES AND FINDING THE POLICY EXEMPT FROM

THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT PURSUANT TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304 (MINOR ALTERATIONS TO LAND).” (Attachment A)
2) Appropriate $300,000 from General Fund Balance to a Grounds Maintenance Account.

BACKGROUND:

On July 28, 1982, City Council approved minute order 3116 (Attachment B) establishing a policy for palm tree trimming, allowing palm trees to be trimmed as necessary until such time as the lower edge of the fronds’ “skirts” are twelve feet from the ground. This policy did not address fruit pod removal.

In 2007, as part of the General Plan Amendment process, the following two goals were established in the community design element:

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July 8, 2026 -- Page 2
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
CD7.3 Amend the City’s Palm Tree Trimming policy to require skinning of trunks of Washingtonia robusta (Mexican fan palms) in the right-of-way to create a more maintained appearance.

CD7.4 Phase out the use of Washingtonia robusta (Mexican fan palms) in the public right-of-way. As robusta die or are replaced, use Washingtonia filifera for their replacement and in new landscape designs in the public right-of-way.

Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera)
On May 6, 2009, the City Council approved Resolution 22475 (Attachment C), adopting a palm tree trimming policy incorporating General Plan goal number CD7.3.

The City annually trims fruit pods and fronds from City-owned palm trees based on Resolution 22475 as follows:
• All California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) and Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) located within the public right-of-way, shall have the fruit pods removed.
• California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) located within the public right-of-way, shall not have fronds removed and shall retain their “skirts”, and their trunks shall not be skinned, but remain in their natural condition. Fronds shall be sheared to provide 12’ minimum clearance and fronds at the skirt bottom shall be sheared to maintain a clean look.
• Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) within the public right-of-way, shall have their dry fronds removed and their trunks shall be skinned.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 3
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
The City Council's July 9, 2024 agenda included a proposal to modify the City's palm tree skirt policy. After publication of the agenda, but before the item was heard, the City received a number of public comments regarding the agenda item. The item was pulled from the agenda and City staff was asked to seek out any possible public safety alternatives from community members, vendors, arborists, and other relevant parties.

This agenda item is being brought back after that outreach has been completed and City staff has received and evaluated input from all parties consulted.

STAFF ANALYSIS:

The City of Palm Springs is world renowned for its distinctive palm tree-lined streets and parkways. These palm trees create the unique character that make Palm Springs a destination city, having one of the largest compositions of heritage quality California Fan Palms in their natural state. The current City policy restricts removal of California Fan Palm dry fronds and skinning of trunks (i.e., “skirts”) but allows the removal of fruit pods and fronds to be sheared to provide a 12’ clearance from the ground.

At the direction of the City Council, the City has evaluated the risk presented by preserving California Fan Palms in their natural state when faced with storm events, such as high winds, and the possibility of fronds becoming displaced from a California Fan Palm and landing on the area beneath. City staff and the City Attorney have determined that the dry fronds (i.e., “skirts”) should be removed when the subject trees are located in pedestrianintense locations such as public rights-of-ways.

In addition to the physical danger of falling skirts — which can weigh anywhere from 1,000 to over 4,000 pounds — palm tree skirts harbor pests and rodents that pose significant public health risks. Roof rats are common nesters in palm tree skirts throughout Southern California and are carriers of serious diseases including Hantavirus, Leptospirosis, and Salmonellosis. Palm tree skirts also provide ideal habitat for cockroaches, which carry bacteria including E. coli and Salmonella, and whose droppings and shed skins are known allergens that can trigger asthma.

Should a skirt fall, the disturbed debris creates an additional inhalation hazard for pedestrians in the area, posing a direct health risk to tree workers, arborists, and bystanders alike. For example, in February of 2024, a palm tree skirt from a palm tree in the City right-of-way fell on an individual, injuring her and leading to a lawsuit against the City.

Public Safety Alternatives
Since the July 2024 agenda item, City staff has investigated public safety alternatives suggested by community members and providers of proposed solutions, including a tree skirt "capture" mechanism. As described in more detail below, City staff has determined that no practical or adequate public safety alternatives to trimming the skirts exist.

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July 8, 2026 -- Page 4
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
A local community member recommended reaching out to Troybelt, a Florida-based company that manufactures nylon belts designed to prevent fronds from falling to the ground. Staff met with Troybelt on April 1, 2025, to discuss their product and whether it could be a viable option for the City.

It was discovered that the belts are intended for Royal Palm trees native to Florida, which are substantially different from the California Fan Palms found in Palm Springs. The belts are designed to contain a small number of falling fronds and require replacement approximately every three months. Given that California Fan Palms produce large, heavy skirts, the belt would not be capable of holding them in place.

Individual fronds can weigh over 20 pounds, and as dead fronds accumulate over the years — with up to 50 fronds added annually — a full skirt can reach several thousand pounds in mature, untrimmed trees.

Furthermore, installation would require a worker to go beneath and inside the skirt every three months —an extremely dangerous undertaking, as the skirt could release and fall on the worker, or trap and suffocate them. Given these safety concerns and the belt's inability to adequately secure the skirts, this option was determined not to be viable for the City.

Staff contacted West Coast Arborists, the City's contracted trimming company, and consulted with their arborist staff to determine whether any other devices or equipment might provide a viable solution. The contractor concluded that no such device exists that can reliably hold skirts in place once they detach.

Staff also reached out to the American Public Works Association (APWA), a nationwide organization with an extensive professional network. This outreach similarly yielded no viable device options for securing detached skirts.

The City's Fire Department regularly trains to manage incidents involving California Fan Palm skirts, which pose inherent dangers to arborists working on the trees, pedestrians on the ground, and Fire Department personnel responding to palm tree-related incidents.

Staff recently reached out to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians to inquire about their perspective on the removal of California Fan Palm skirts. Staff received a response indicating no opinion on the matter.

Aesthetics
Some have suggested that trimming of the skirts would create an aesthetic that is incompatible with Palm Springs historic brand. In this regard, it bears noting that the City does not have a long history of keeping palm tree skirts. For instance, these street scenes of downtown Palm Springs in the 1960s clearly show these California Fan Palms in a fully trimmed condition:

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 5
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
The Palm Springs Scene, Jack Douglas, Periscope Film, available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2fan6oTROM&t=29s Therefore, a palm tree trimming policy that provides for the removal of the skirts would not be incompatible with the City’s historic aesthetic.

Proposed Policy
The proposed resolution amends the palm tree trimming policy to establish standards that promote public safety for the trimming of California Fan Palms and Mexican Fan Palms within the City’s right-of-way, City parks, and other City property. • All California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) and Mexican Fan Palms (Washington robusta) located within the public right-of-way, shall have the fruit pods removed.
• All California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) and Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) located within the City’s public right-of-way, City parks and other City property, except for designated historic sites, shall have their dry fronds, including the skirts, removed and their trunks shall be skinned.

The City has approximately 2,150 California Fan Palms.

If the proposed policy is adopted, City staff will utilize the Citywide tree trimming contract to trim California Fan Palms in phases until completion over approximately the next 4

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 6
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
years. Trimming will begin in the most densely populated areas of the City, starting with the Downtown area, before transitioning to City Parks, Medians and Parkways, Assessment Districts, and other City property.

The City will strive to cease trimming during its most populated nesting season starting April 15th and continuing through June 30th annually. Although varying time frames are referenced as nesting season due to Palm Springs’ unique weather conditions, nesting season can be year-round but is observed at its highest from mid-April through June. City staff and our contracted tree trimming vendor annually avoid tree trimming during these times, but if required due to public safety, staff shall employ additional precautionary measures such as deploying an urban biologist to inspect the palm tree prior to any trimming activities taking place to ensure no active nesting exists. Currently, the City’s vendor follows the protocol outlined below to ensure nesting, regardless of the time of year, is not disturbed.
• Wildlife Protection Training
o Identify types of nests
o How to do a pre-work survey
o Learn when to get help with a pre-work survey
o Become aware of “problem” type trees that make it difficult to see wildlife o Learn differences between active and inactive nests
o What to do and who to call if you find a bird nest with eggs or young o Learn what to do if you find an injured or orphaned wildlife • Employ wildlife trained staff
• Pre-work survey (inspection)
o Inspect the tree from ground
o Inspect from aloft before trimming activities
• Visually scan tree
• Look for dark shapes that don’t fit the leaf or branch pattern • Look for holes or cavities, especially in dead limbs
• Check for bird feces, pellets, feathers, or bones on the ground • Check for squirrel signs – empty nut shells, feeding debris on ground • Listen for repeated alarm calls, birds and mammals often try to defend their young
• Continue to inspect as foliage is being removed
City staff and its tree trimming vendor will ensure all palm tree trimming activities are in line with Palm Springs Municipal Code Section 11.36.010 Wildlife Protected.1 1 That section reads, “No person shall kill, capture or molest any species of wildlife or damage the nest or eggs of any wildlife within the city, except any poisonous reptile or insect; provided, however, that if it shall be determined by the city manager, or his authorized representative, that wildlife has become a menace to any person's health, safety or property, the city manager shall issue a permit authorizing such person to kill or capture such wildlife. In no event shall any person use or employ poison or diseased material to kill or capture wildlife.”

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 7
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:

The Policy is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304, Minor Alterations to Land (“Class 4”).

The Class 4 exemption allows minor public alterations in the condition of land, which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees. Here, the Policy permits minor alterations to specific palm trees, limited to fruit pod removal, trunk skinning, and/or shearing, in certain public areas for the safety of the City’s residents. The Policy does not permit tree removal of any sort.

The City has also considered whether the proposed Policy is subject to any exception to the Class 4 exemption, as set forth in State CEQA Guidelines section 15300.2. No exception applies for the following reasons:
• The Policy does not affect palm trees located in a sensitive environment. These palm trees are located in highly urbanized areas of the City within the public rightof-way or parks, which are not designated as sensitive environments. • The Policy would not result in any significant cumulative impacts on the environment since successive policies of the same type are unlikely to be proposed or implemented.
• The Policy does not involve any unusual circumstances and has no potential to result in a significant impact on the environment. The Policy simply permits certain tree trimming procedures in the public right-of-way, parks and City properties. • The areas affected by the Policy are not located within a state scenic highway. • These areas affected by the Policy do not contain a site that is included on any hazardous waste site list compiled pursuant to Section 65962.5 of the Government Code.

Should the Policy be approved, Staff is directed to file a Notice of Exemption (Attachment D) within five (5) working days of approval.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLANNING:

Adoption of the proposed Policy will support the City Council’s goal of providing for quality, well-maintained infrastructure and facilities, as well as protecting public safety and community services.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Approval of this action will require an appropriation of $300,000 from General Fund Balance into Public Works Grounds Maintenance Account 1006540-40105.

Funding will be budgeted for subsequent fiscal years in the following accounts:

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 8
Resolution Approving a Palm Tree Trimming Policy
• 1006540-40105 & 50121
• 1006515-40105
• 1413060-80000
• 2603205-50119
• 4157045-40105
• 5206570-40105 & 50119
REVIEWED BY:

Assistant Director of Public Works: Daniel Martinez
Director of Public Works: David McAbee
Director of Finance & Treasurer: Kristopher J. Mooney
Assistant City Manager: Teresa Gallavan
City Manager: Teresa Gallavan for SS
ATTACHMENTS:

A. Resolution
B. Minute Order 3116
C. Resolution No. 22475
D. Notice of Exemption

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ATTACHMENT “A”
Resolution – Adopting Palm Tree Trimming Policy

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55575.18130\45062501.1
RESOLUTION NO. _____

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM

SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY,

AND SUPERSEDING ALL PREVIOUS PALM TREE TRIMMING

PROCEDURES AND POLICIES AND FINDING THE POLICY EXEMPT

FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT PURSUANT
TO STATE CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15304 (MINOR ALTERATIONS

TO LAND)
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs is world renowned for its distinctive palm lined streets, and parkways, and these palms create the unique character that make Palm Springs a destination city; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs is home to one of the largest compositions of heritage quality California Fan Palms in their natural state; and WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs desires to maintain that signature element, and therefore had established a policy for the uniform trimming of California Fan Palms located within the public right of way; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs current policy restricts removal of California Fan Palms dry fronds and skinning of trunks, but allows the removal of fruit pods and fronds to be sheared to provide 12’ minimum clearance and fronds at the skirt bottom to be sheared to maintain a clean look; and
WHEREAS, the City of Palm Springs has evaluated the risk presented by preserving California Fan Palms in their natural state when faced with storm events, such as high winds, and the possibility of fronds becoming displaced from a California Fan Palm and landing on the area beneath, and has determined that the dry fronds should be removed when the subject trees are located in pedestrian-intense locations such as public rights of ways; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to establish a tree trimming policy that promotes public safety for trimming of California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) and Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) within the public right of way.

THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this reference.

SECTION 2. All California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filifera) and Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) located within the public right of way, shall have the fruit pods removed.

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55575.18130\45062501.1
Resolution No. _____

Page 2 ends

SECTION 3. California Fan Palms (Washingtonia filiferas) and all Mexican Fan Palms (Washingtonia robusta) located within the public right of way, City parks, and City owned (or possessed) property, except for designated historic sites, shall have their dry fronds removed and their trunks shall be skinned. To the extent feasible, such removal should be performed outside of nesting season for any migratory bird species.

SECTION 4. Any previous resolutions and/or minute orders adopting or amending a palm tree trimming policy are hereby superseded.

SECTION 5. This Policy is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304, Minor Alterations to Land (“Class 4”). The Class 4 exemption allows minor public alterations in the condition of land, which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees. Here, the Policy permits minor alterations to specific palm trees, limited to fruit pod removal, trunk skinning, and/or shearing, in certain public areas for the safety of the City’s residents. The Policy does not permit tree removal of any sort. Further, the Policy is not subject to any exception to the Class 4 exemption, as set forth in State CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2.

ADOPTED THIS 8th DAY OF JULY, 2026.

SCOTT STILES

CITY MANAGER
ATTEST:

BRENDA PREE

CITY CLERK

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55575.18130\45062501.1
Resolution No. _____

Page 3 ends

CERTIFICATION

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.

CITY OF PALM SPRINGS )
I, Brenda Pree, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, hereby certify that Resolution No. ____ is a full, true and correct copy, and was duly adopted at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs on July , 2026, 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 July, 2026.

BRENDA PREE

CITY CLERK

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ATTACHMENT “B”
Minute Order 3116

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ATTACHMENT “C”
Resolution No. 22475

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B – P
B – P
ATTACHMENT “D”
Notice of Exemption

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Statutory Exemptions. State code number:

_______________________________________________
Print Form
Notice of Exemption Appendix E
To: Office of Planning and Research From: (Public Agency): ____________________________ P.O. Box 3044, Room 113 _______________________________________________ Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 County Clerk
(Address)
___________________________
___________________________
County of: __________________
Project Title: ____________________________________________________________________________ Project Applicant: ________________________________________________________________________ Project Location - Specific:

Project Location - City: ______________________ Project Location - County:

Description of Nature, Purpose and Beneficiaries of Project:
_____________________
Name of Public Agency Approving Project: _____________________________________________________ Name of Person or Agency Carrying Out Project: ________________________________________________ Exempt Status: (check one):

Ministerial (Sec. 21080(b)(1); 15268);
Declared Emergency (Sec. 21080(b)(3); 15269(a));
Emergency Project (Sec. 21080(b)(4); 15269(b)(c));
Reasons why project is exempt:

Lead Agency
Contact Person: ____________________________ Area Code/Telephone/Extension: _______________ If filed by applicant:

1. Attach certified document of exemption finding.

2. Has a Notice of Exemption been filed by the public agency approving the project? Yes No Signature: ____________________________ Date:

Signed by Lead Agency Signed by Applicant
Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21110, Public Resources Code. Date Received for filing at OPR:

Reference: Sections 21108, 21152, and 21152.1, Public Resources Code. _______________
Categorical Exemption. State type and section number: ____________________________________ ______________________________________________
______________ Title: _______________________
Revised 2011
City of Palm Springs 3200 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 Riverside Resolution No. ____ - Palm Tree Trimming Policy City of Palm Springs Within the boundaries of the City of Palm Springs Palm Springs Riverside On July 8, 2026, the City Council for the City of Palm Springs approved a resolution to adopt a palm tree trimming policy, superseding all previous palm tree trimming procedures and policies. The Policy permits minor trimming (fruit pod removal, trunk skinning, and/or shearing) of palm trees within the public right of way to promote public safety. The City is home to one of the largest compositions of heritage quality California Fan Palms. Recent storm events demonstrated that palm trees in their natural state posed a public safety risk. The Policy does not permit tree removal of any sort. City of Palm Springs City of Palm Springs X Class 4 - State CEQA Guidelines § 15304 (Minor Alterations to Land) The Policy is categorically exempt from CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15304, Minor Alterations to Land (Class 4). The Class 4 exemption allows minor public alterations in the condition of land, which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic trees. The Policy permits minor alterations to specific palm trees, limited to fruit pod removal, trunk skinning, and/or shearing, in certain public areas for public safety. The Policy does not permit tree removal of any sort. No exceptions pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15300.2 apply. David McAbee (760) 323-8167 July 8, 2026 Director of Public Works ■

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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JULY 8, 2026 BUSINESS & LEGISLATIVE
SUBJECT: ADOPTION OF THE 2026/2027 LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM FROM: Scott C. Stiles, City Manager
BY: Teresa Gallavan, Assistant City Manager
SUMMARY:

This action recommends the City Council adopt the proposed 2026/2027 Legislative Platform. This platform serves as a comprehensive policy and funding guide for the City’s legislative advocacy efforts at the local, state, and federal levels. It outlines key priorities and positions that will help the City of Palm Springs proactively pursue funding, monitor legislation, and engage with policymakers on issues that align with the City Council’s strategic goals.

RECOMMENDATION:

Staff recommend the City Council adopt the proposed 2026/2027 Legislative Platform (Attachment A).

BUSINESS PRINCIPAL DISCLOSURE:

According to the Public Integrity Disclosure form included (Attachment D), Townsend Public Affairs, Inc., is registered in the state of California.

BACKGROUND:

On July 9, 2025, the City Council adopted the 2025/2026 Legislative Platform, which established the City’s legislative priorities and advocacy framework for state and federal engagement.

Townsend Public Affairs, the City’s legislative consultant, has worked with City staff to review and update the platform for the 2026/2027 legislative cycle. The platform is intended to guide the City’s legislative advocacy efforts, identify opportunities for funding, and provide direction on legislation that may impact the City.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 2
Adopt the 2026/2027 Legislative Platform
The updated 2026/2027 Legislative Platform serves as a strategic policy document outlining the City’s priorities, goals, and opportunities at the state and federal levels. The legislative platform remains flexible as legislative proposals and funding opportunities continue to evolve throughout the year.

The proposed Legislative Platform builds upon the City's ongoing advocacy efforts and recent accomplishments. As summarized in Attachment C, the City's partnership with Townsend Public Affairs has helped secure more than $7.7 million in grant funding over the past four years, with nearly $8 million in additional funding currently pending, while supporting legislative advocacy, grant development, and strategic engagement at the state and federal levels. Over the past two legislative sessions, the City has taken positions on more than 30 pieces of legislation, and engaged in advocacy missions to Sacramento and Washington, D.C., demonstrating its commitment to active engagement in the policymaking process.

STAFF ANALYSIS:

The 2026/2027 Legislative Platform outlines specific policy and funding priorities that support the City’s ability to proactively engage in legislative processes and pursue critical resources. Key areas of focus include:
• Homelessness and Behavioral Health
• Housing
• Economic Development
• Infrastructure and Facilities
• Public Safety and Community Services
• Climate Resiliency
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:

The requested City Council action is not a “Project” as defined by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Pursuant to Section 15378(a), a “Project” means the whole of an action, which has a potential for resulting in either a direct physical change in the environment. According to Section 15378(b), a Project does not include: (5) Organizational or administrative activities of governments that will not result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLANNING:

This legislative platform supports all four of the City Council’s Broad Goals including Economic Development, Public Safety and Community Services, Infrastructure and Facilities, and Housing.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 3
Adopt the 2026/2027 Legislative Platform
FISCAL IMPACT:

There is no fiscal impact associated with the recommended action. Legislative and grant services are included in the City’s budget.

REVIEWED BY:

Assistant City Manager: Teresa Gallavan
City Manager: Teresa Gallavan for Scott Stiles
ATTACHMENTS:

A. 2026/2027 Legislative Platform
B. 2026/2027 Draft Legislative Platform – Mark Up
C. 2026 Summary of Efforts
D. Public Integrity Disclosure Form

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Attachment A
2026/2027 Legislative Platform

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State Capitol Office • 925 L Street, Suite 1404 • Sacramento, California 95814 • Phone (916) 447-4086 • Fax (916) 444-2063 Federal Office • 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Suite 207 • Washington, DC • Phone (202) 546-8696 • Fax (202) 546-4555 Northern California Office • 300 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Suite 204 • Oakland, California 94612 • Phone (510) 835-9050 • Fax (510) 835-9030 Southern California Office • 1601 Dove Road• Newport Beach, California 92660 • Phone (949) 399-9050 • Fax (949) 476-8215

M E M O R A N D U M
To: The Honorable Naomi Soto and Members of the Palm Springs City Council CC: Scott Stiles, City Manager
Teresa Gallavan, Assistant City Manager
From: Niccolo De Luca, Vice President, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.

Ben Goldeen, Federal Advocacy Director
Carlin Shelby, Deputy Director
Kerri West, Senior Associate
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate
Date: June 30, 2026
Subject: 2026/2027 State and Federal Legislative Agenda Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (TPA), in coordination with City staff, has prepared a draft legislative platform for the City of Palm Springs for discussion and adoption. The 2026/2027 legislative platform serves as a strategic policy document that outlines the priorities, goals, and opportunities for the City.

The adopted legislative platform will communicate a clear set of values and policy goals. The final document will also function as a roadmap for legislative and funding efforts and reflect the priorities of the City Council. The legislative agenda will be fluid as some issues will be addressed with introduced legislation and new issues may arise.

Once adopted, this document will be shared with key stakeholders in the State Legislature, Governor’s Administration, Members of Congress, and Federal Administration.

Proposed Legislative Priorities for 2026
The State Legislature in 2026 has continued to focus on key priorities, including responding to federal actions, addressing homelessness and behavioral health, expanding housing access, enhancing public safety, and advancing transportation and infrastructure initiatives. As this marks Governor Newsom’s final year in office, legislative activity remains robust. The Legislature is currently in the House of Origin phase, with bills continuing to advance through amendments before moving to the second house in the coming weeks.

In Washington, D.C., Congressional leaders and the White House have largely concentrated on broader national issues, though opportunities remain in infrastructure, transportation, housing, and public safety.

Many federal funding programs and grant opportunities are resuming operations following widespread federal workforce reductions and administrative restructuring. In addition, the recent federal government shut down significantly delayed legislative activity earlier this year, with more substantive actions now ramping up.

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Proposed 2026 Legislative Platform Page 2 of 5
Federal and State Legislative Monitoring and Potential Action The following legislative priorities are recommended for monitoring, analysis, and potential action. The City may choose to take a position on a piece of legislation, continue to monitor without a position, or determine if any further response is required. Additionally, the City Attorney is authorized to participate in amicus briefing in litigation that furthers the goals of this legislative platform.

TPA will maintain a constantly updated matrix of state legislation and may also present strategic recommendations and provide rolling updates. TPA will monitor legislative activity in the following areas.

Homelessness and Behavioral Health
Policy Priorities:
1) Enhance emergency, transitional, and permanent housing opportunities. 2) Support legislative efforts that will require regional collaboration when receiving direct allocation of homeless funds.
3) Support legislative efforts that have a focus on keeping people in housing, once placed, for many years.
4) Support legislative efforts that will require counties to partner with cities relating to HHAP funds, unspent Proposition 1 Behavioral Health Services Act and other funding sources. 5) Support legislative efforts that increase services such as mental health, substance abuse, treatment beds and other services for people living in encampments and in unsheltered settings.

Funding Priorities:
1) Funding for operation of the Palm Springs Navigation Center. 2) Funding for homeless services (e.g., the wrap around services necessary for transitional and permanent housing), non-congregate shelters and emergency shelters, as well as operating costs for shelters, navigation centers and permanent housing. 3) Reduce restrictions on homeless services funding to allow more flexible spending within spectrum of homeless support services such as Encampment Resolution Funds (ERF) 4) Remove restrictions limiting (HHAP) funding to just cities with populations greater than 300,000. 5) Funding for permanent housing interventions that reduce and prevent homelessness. 6) Support funding efforts relating to mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, and other related services.
7) Support funding of healthcare services that will reduce the homeless’ and shelter residents’ reliance on 911 (e.g. telecare programs).

Housing
Policy Priorities:
1) Prevent displacement (including by creating funding for eviction protections for low to moderate income residents).
2) Support legislation that advances the creation or funding of below market rate housing projects (including reductions: in permitting time, requirements for Affordable Housing Tax Credit applications).
3) Modify affordable housing formulas to create more equity for smaller regions like the Coachella Valley.
4) Reasonable reform to CEQA to streamline development and housing opportunities, especially for infill and affordable housing developments.
5) Support legislative and funding efforts relating to housing preservation and acquisition. 6) Support legislation that reduces the cost of housing. 7) Support legislation that helps reduce the cost of rent (e.g., reduces the percentage rent can increase on an annual basis).
8) Support legislation that reduces the cost of home insurance which includes multi-family affordable housing insurance.

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Proposed 2026 Legislative Platform Page 3 of 5
Funding Priorities:
1) Funding for innovative programs to prevent displacement and address hazardous housing conditions.
2) Enhance funding opportunities for existing state programs to help support bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in connection to housing.
3) Support funding for remediation of hazardous sites (to make viable for housing).

Economic Development
Policy Priorities:
1) Support for arts and cultural spaces, arts education, and similar programs. 2) Support efforts to address the digital divide.
3) Support legislative and other efforts for programs that create education and workforce pathways for economic development targeted industries, especially in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley 4) Support new and existing businesses throughout the City. 5) Support tech sector and tech industry cluster growth that aligns with the workforce pathways developed in conjunction with the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan.

Funding Priorities:
1) Support for small business recovery, tourism/visitor recovery and other business sectors deeply impacted tariffs, natural disasters and other events.
2) Support priorities and initiatives identified in the Palm Springs Economic Development Strategic Plan.
3) Support efforts and funding to incentivize and attract community services to low/moderate resource areas, including incentives for grocery stores, banks and shopping centers. 4) Support funding to assist low-income communities with building wealth and creating income producing assets (e.g. home ownership and entrepreneurship).

Infrastructure and Facilities
Policy Priorities:
1) Support measures affecting funding for roads, transit, “last mile” projects and goods movement as well as alternative modes of transportation (bikes, ebikes, escooters, etc.), and support the needs of the disabled community.
2) Support efforts to help commuters and increase public transportation which includes efforts to ensure transit agencies continue to deliver services.
3) Support regional transportation projects that would provide a benefit to the City and surrounding communities.
4) Increase resiliency of public infrastructure from threats of climate change.

Funding Priorities:
1) Funding for construction of Fire Station 1 and the expansion and modernization of other Palm Springs Fire Stations.
2) Funding for the modernization of the Convention Center. 3) Funding for the seamless connection to downtown.
4) Funding for the modernization of the airport.
5) Funding to address major infrastructure and facility upgrades and renovations. 6) Increased funding for bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements.

Public Safety and Community Services
Policy Priorities:
1) Support disaster preparedness, training, response, and resilience efforts especially related to our vulnerable communities.

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Proposed 2026 Legislative Platform Page 4 of 5
2) Support additional efforts to help prevent violence such as mental health services, supporting street outreach teams, focusing on other individuals before they are at risk.

Climate Resiliency
Policy Priorities:
1) Support legislative efforts to enhance electric vehicle infrastructure. 2) Support legislative efforts the help bring down the cost of electricity and other utilities. 3) Support legislative efforts to create funding streams to address climate change and to help reduce air pollution.
4) Support the extension and reauthorization of the Cap and Invest program.

Funding Priorities:
1) Support funding for Zero Waste efforts.
2) Support funding for more EV charging stations at residential and commercial locations. 3) Support funding for compliance and implementation of state environmental mandates, including SB 1383 (organics recycling and edible food recovery), SB 54 (plastic pollution prevention and producer responsibility), and AB 1527 (elimination of potable water use for irrigating nonfunctional turf).

Miscellaneous
Policy Priorities:
1) Support legislative efforts to amend the Brown Act to help encourage greater public participation and further encourage online meetings.
2) Support legislative efforts to address the way ballot measures are formulated, worded, and advertised.

One Time State and Federal Funding Priorities for “Member Request” Consideration As we have seen at both the Federal and State level, new initiatives and various funding opportunities have taken form over the last few years. This also includes both legislative provisions that direct approved funds to be spent on specific projects, sometimes referred to as “Member Requests” or “Congressionally Directed Spending.”
As it relates to state and federal “Member Requests” / “Congressionally Directed Spending,” our recommended strategy is for the adopted Legislative Platform to include a handful of funding buckets that capture various project themes. This provides the City with the highest amount of flexibility as it is important to not only reflect the priorities of the state and federal lawmakers who sponsor these requests, but also to ensure that the City’s projects fit the eligibility requirements of the various state and federal funding pots.

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Proposed 2026 Legislative Platform Page 5 of 5
may report out in April while they are on Spring Recess and in November or December when Session has concluded.

Due to the ever-changing nature of legislation in Sacramento and Washington, TPA can also provide monthly updates which can be shared with the City Council.

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Attachment B
2026/2027 Draft Legislative Platform Mark Up

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State Capitol Office • 925 L Street, Suite 1404 • Sacramento, California 95814 • Phone (916) 447-4086 • Fax (916) 444-2063 Federal Office • 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Suite 207 • Washington, DC • Phone (202) 546-8696 • Fax (202) 546-4555 Northern California Office • 300 Frank Ogawa Plaza, Suite 204 • Oakland, California 94612 • Phone (510) 835-9050 • Fax (510) 835-9030 Southern California Office • 1601 Dove Road• Newport Beach, California 92660 • Phone (949) 399-9050 • Fax (949) 476-8215

M E M O R A N D U M
To: The Honorable Naomi SotoRon deHarte and Members of the Palm Springs City Council
CC: Scott Stiles, City Manager
Teresa Gallavan, Assistant City Manager
From: Niccolo De Luca, Vice President, Townsend Public Affairs, Inc.

Ben Goldeen, Federal Advocacy Director
Carlin Shelby, Deputy DirectorSenior Associate
Kerri West, Senior Associate
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate
Date: June 30, 20265
Subject: 20265/20276 State and Federal Legislative Agenda Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (TPA), in coordination with City staff, has prepared a draft legislative platform for the City of Palm Springs for discussion and adoption. The 20265/20276 legislative platform serves as a strategic policy document that outlines the priorities, goals, and opportunities for the City.

Once adopted, this document will be shared with key stakeholders in the State Legislature, Governor’s Administration, Members of Congress, and Federal Administration.

Proposed Legislative Priorities for 20265
The State Legislature in 2026 has continued to focus on key priorities, including responding to federal actions, addressing homelessness and behavioral health, expanding housing access, enhancing public safety, and advancing transportation and infrastructure initiatives. As this marks Governor Newsom’s final year in office, legislative activity remains robust. The Legislature is currently in the House of Origin phase, with bills continuing to advance through amendments before moving to the second house in the coming weeks.

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Proposed 20265 Legislative Platform Page 3 of 6
The State Legislature has maintained its focus on its recent priorities including Climate Resiliency, Homelessness and Behavioral Health, Housing and Greater Access, Public Safety, and Transportation and Infrastructure. In addition, the Governor, his Administration, and the State Legislature is focused on stopping and pushing back on the various proposals coming from the White House and President Trump.

In 2025, the Trump administration and Congress have prioritized tax cuts, deregulation, and spending reductions.

Key focuses include border security, military funding, energy production, and strict immigration policies, such as large-scale deportations. The administration is also advancing efforts aimed to shrink the federal workforce and restructuring agencies.

Federal and State Legislative Monitoring and Potential Action The following legislative priorities are recommended for monitoring, analysis, and potential action. The City may choose to take a position on a piece of legislation, continue to monitor without a position, or determine if any further response is required. Additionally, the City Attorney is authorized to participate in amicus briefing in litigation that furthers the goals of this legislative platform.

Homelessness and Behavioral Health
Policy Priorities:
1) Enhance emergency, transitional, and permanent housing opportunities. 2) Support legislative efforts that will require regional collaboration when receiving direct allocation of homeless funds.
3) Support legislative efforts that have a focus on keeping people in housing, once placed, for many years.
4) Support legislative efforts that will require counties to partner with cities relating to unspent Prop 63 mental health funds, HHAP funds, unspent Proposition 1 Behavioral Health Services Act and other funding sources.
5) Support legislative efforts that increase services such as mental health, substance abuse, treatment beds and other services for people living in encampments and in unsheltered settings.

Funding Priorities:
1) Funding for operation of the Palm Springs Navigation Center. 2) Funding for homeless services (e.g., the wrap around services necessary for transitional and permanent housing), non-congregate shelters and emergency shelters, as well as operating costs for shelters, navigation centers and permanent housing. 3) Reduce restrictions on homeless services funding to allow more flexible spending within spectrum of homeless support services . such as Encampment Resolution Funds (ERF) 4) Remove restrictions limiting (HHAP) funding to just cities with populations greater than 300,000. 5) Funding for permanent housing interventions that reduce and prevent homelessness. 6) Support funding efforts relating to mental health treatment, substance abuse treatment, and other related services.
7) Support funding of healthcare services that will reduce the homeless’ and shelter residents’ reliance on 911 (e.g. telecare programs).

Housing
Policy Priorities:
1) Prevent displacement (including by creating funding for eviction protections for low to moderate income residents).

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Proposed 20265 Legislative Platform Page 4 of 6
2)
2)3)
3)4) Support legislation that advances the creation or funding of below market rate housing projects (including reductions: in permitting time, requirements for Affordable Housing Tax Credit applications).
4)5) Modify affordable housing formulas to create more equity for smaller regions like the Coachella Valley.
5)6) Reasonable reform to CEQA to streamline development and housing opportunities, especially for infill and affordable housing developments. 6)7) Support legislative and funding efforts relating to housing preservation and acquisition. 7)8) Support legislation that reduces the cost of housing. 8)9) Support legislation that helps reduce the cost of rent (e.g., reduces the percentage rent can increase on an annual basis).
9)10) Support legislation that reduces the cost of home insurance . which includes multi-family affordable housing insurance.

Funding Priorities:
1) Funding for innovative programs to prevent displacement and address hazardous housing conditions.
2) Enhance funding opportunities for existing state programs to help support bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in connection to housing.
3) Support funding for remediation of hazardous sites (to make viable for housing).

Economic Development
Policy Priorities:
1) Support for arts and cultural spaces, arts education, and similar programs. 2) Cannabis Tax reform which includes lowering taxes and tax simplification. 3) Support efforts to address the digital divide.
4) Support legislative and other efforts for programs that create education and workforce pathways for economic development targeted industries, especially in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley. 5) Support new and existing businesses throughout the City. 6) Support tech sector and tech industry cluster growth that aligns with the workforce pathways developed in conjunction with the City’s Economic Development Strategic Plan.

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Proposed 20265 Legislative Platform Page 5 of 6
3) Support regional transportation projects that would provide a benefit to the City and surrounding communities.
4) Increase resiliency of public infrastructure from threats of climate change.

Public Safety and Community Services
Policy Priorities:
1) Support disaster preparedness, training, response, and resilience efforts especially related to our vulnerable communities.
2) Support additional efforts to help prevent violence such as mental health services, supporting street outreach teams, focusing on other individuals before they are at risk.

Funding Priorities:
1) Support funding opportunities to train personnel and modernize facilities and equipment. 2) Support funding opportunities for alternative traffic enforcement efforts. 3) Support funding opportunities for emergency services staffing, facilities, apparatus, and infrastructure to support future growth.
2)
Climate Resiliency
Policy Priorities:
1) Support legislative efforts to enhance electric vehicle infrastructure. 2) Support legislative efforts the help bring down the cost of electricity and other utilities. 3) Support legislative efforts to create funding streams to address climate change and to help reduce air pollution.
4) Support the extension and reauthorization of the Cap and InvestTrade program.

Funding Priorities:
1) Support funding for Zero Waste efforts.
2) Support funding for more EV charging stations at residential and commercial locations. 2)3)Support funding for compliance and implementation of state environmental mandates, including SB 1383 (organics recycling and edible food recovery), SB 54 (plastic pollution prevention and producer responsibility), and AB 1592 (elimination of potable water use for irrigating nonfunctional turf).

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Proposed 20265 Legislative Platform Page 6 of 6
One Time State and Federal Funding Priorities for “Member Request” Consideration As we have seen at both the Federal and State level, new initiatives and various funding opportunities have taken form over the last few years. This also includes both legislative provisions that direct approved funds to be spent on specific projects, sometimes referred to as “Member Requests” or “Congressionally Directed Spending.”
As it relates to state and federal “Member Requests” / “Congressionally Directed Spending,” our recommended strategy is for the adopted Legislative Platform to include a handful of funding buckets that capture various project themes. This provides the City with the highest amount of flexibility as it is important to not only reflect the priorities of the state and federal lawmakers who sponsor these requests, but also to ensure that the City’s projects fit the eligibility requirements of the various state and federal funding pots.

Process for Reporting/Next Steps
In addition to weekly legislative updates and other communications we send to the City Team, TPA suggests verbal reports to the City Council when the State Legislature is on recess. For example, we may report out in April while they are on Spring Recess and in November or December when Session has concluded.

Due to the ever-changing nature of legislation in Sacramento and Washington, TPA can also provide monthly updates which can be shared with the City Council.

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Attachment C
Summary of Efforts

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CALIFORNIA ADVOCACY • FEDERAL ADVOCACY • GRANT WRITING
Sacramento • Washington, D.C.

Northern California • Central California • Southern California S

M E M O R A N D U M
To: The Honorable Naomi Soto and Members of the City Council CC: Scott Stiles, City Manager
Teresa Gallavan, Assistant City Manager
From: Townsend Public Affairs
Niccolo De Luca, Vice President
Ben Goldeen, Federal Advocacy Director
Carly Shelby, Deputy Director
Anastasia Heaton, Senior Associate
Kerri West, Senior Associate
Date: June 5, 2026
Subject: Summary of Accomplishments for the City of Palm Springs Townsend Public Affairs, Inc. (TPA) is pleased to present this memorandum to the City of Palm Springs summarizing our efforts and accomplishments in support of the City's legislative agenda and funding priorities.

Strategic Legislative and Funding Partnerships
Since the inception of our partnership, TPA has worked closely with the City's elected officials and administrative leadership to advance key municipal priorities. Our efforts have included strategic advocacy at both the state and federal levels, targeted legislative engagement, and the identification and pursuit of competitive funding opportunities. These initiatives have been guided by a shared commitment to delivering meaningful, community-focused outcomes for the residents of Palm Springs.

Over the past four years, our collaborative efforts have secured $7,728,231 in critical funding for vital City projects, with almost $8,000,000 currently pending consideration. These achievements were made possible through strong partnerships with a broad network of state and federal elected officials and their offices, including:
 Governor Gavin Newsom's Office
 Assemblymember Greg Wallis
 Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
 Congressman Ken Calvert
 Congressman Raul Ruiz
 U.S. Senator Alex Padilla
 U.S. Senator Adam Schiff
In 2025 and 2026, the City significantly expanded its engagement in Sacramento through advocacy missions and formal support of multiple legislative measures. Each year, the California Legislature considers hundreds of bills that directly affect local governments, including issues

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City of Palm Springs Summary of Efforts 2
related to municipal operations, fiscal resources, housing policy, public safety, infrastructure, environmental programs, economic development, and the delivery of essential services.

By taking formal positions on state legislation, the City of Palm Springs has effectively advocated for the interests of its residents, businesses, and visitors while helping shape policies that impact communities throughout California. Active participation in the legislative process enables the City to communicate its unique perspectives and operational expertise to policymakers while highlighting Palm Springs' successful programs and initiatives.

In addition, legislative engagement helps position the City to secure critical state resources and funding opportunities. Many legislative proposals establish or expand grant programs, infrastructure investments, housing resources, economic development initiatives, and other funding mechanisms that can directly benefit Palm Springs residents and support the City's longterm strategic goals.

Supporting legislation that aligns with the City's adopted legislative platform, strategic priorities, and community values demonstrates Palm Springs' commitment to proactive governance and sound public policy. It also strengthens relationships with state legislators, regional partners, and municipal advocacy organizations, creating opportunities for collaboration on issues of shared importance and advancing solutions that benefit both the local community and the broader region.

Over the past two legislative sessions, the City has taken positions on more than 30 pieces of legislation, demonstrating its commitment to active engagement in the policymaking process.

Advocacy Missions to Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

Advocacy missions to Sacramento and Washington, D.C. provide valuable opportunities for the City of Palm Springs to advance local priorities, secure funding, and strengthen relationships with state and federal policymakers. These visits allow City representatives to advocate for legislative and regulatory actions that support community needs, including infrastructure improvements, housing initiatives, public safety resources, transportation investments, water reliability, and economic development programs.

Direct engagement with elected officials and government agencies helps ensure that Palm Springs' interests are represented in policy discussions and funding decisions that affect local residents and businesses. These advocacy efforts also position the City to compete more effectively for grants and other financial resources, helping reduce the burden on local taxpayers while supporting critical community projects.

Furthermore, these missions foster strategic partnerships with regional, state, and federal stakeholders, enhancing collaboration on issues of mutual concern. By maintaining a consistent presence in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., the City strengthens its ability to influence policy decisions, protect local interests, and secure resources that contribute to the long-term economic vitality and quality of life of the Palm Springs community.

Over the past year, TPA successfully initiated, organized, and led three advocacy missions to Sacramento and Washington, D.C. focused on advancing Palm Springs' legislative priorities and funding objectives. These efforts resulted in direct engagement with policymakers and agency officials and contributed to the successful acquisition of state and federal funding for key City initiatives. The missions demonstrated the value of proactive advocacy in securing external resources, influencing policy discussions, and ensuring Palm Springs remains competitive for future funding opportunities.

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City of Palm Springs Summary of Efforts 3
Ongoing Support and Engagement
In addition to legislative advocacy and funding acquisition efforts, TPA provides ongoing strategic support to the City through:
 Weekly legislative and funding updates to City staff
 Presentations and briefings to the City Council
 Planning, coordination, and execution of advocacy missions to Sacramento and Washington, D.C.
 Continuous monitoring of legislative, regulatory, and funding developments affecting City priorities
TPA is honored to serve as the City of Palm Springs' legislative and funding advocacy partner.

We remain committed to advancing the City's interests, securing critical resources, and supporting local initiatives that enhance the quality of life for Palm Springs residents. We look forward to continuing our successful partnership and helping the City achieve its long-term goals at all levels of government.

Funding Successes for the City of Palm Springs
Total Awarded: $7,728,231
Office of Trafic Safety Grant: PSFD Extrication Equipment $50,000 2026 City of Palm Springs: FY26 Federal Budget Earmark: Palm Springs Airport Inline Baggage Claim System
$3,000,000 2026
City of Palm Springs: CPUC Broadband Adoption Account:

Welwood Murray Memorial Library Computer Equipment
$23,430 2025
City of Palm Springs: Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development Cannabis Equity Grant: Cannabis
Equity Assistance Program
$538,328 2025
City of Palm Springs: USDOT Safe Streets and Roads 4 All:

Comprehensive Action Safety Plan
$776,000 2024
City of Palm Springs: Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants: Comprehensive Shade and Heat Mitigation Plan
$400,000 2024
City of Palm Springs: Federal Budget Earmark: Regional
Flood Transport Project
$673,872 2024
City of Palm Springs: Federal Budget Earmark: Navigation Center
$2,005,961 2024
CASF Adoption Account: Demuth Community Center
Broadband Access Project
$61,109 2023
CPUC Broadband Adoption Account: Library Computer
Equipment
$81,046 2023
California State Library High-Speed Broadband Grant $99,581 2022 Firehouse Subs Grant: Bulletproof Vests Equipment
Acquisition
$18,904 2022
Funding Pending for the City of Palm Springs

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City of Palm Springs Summary of Efforts 4
Total Pending: $10,915,000
FY2027 Community Project Funding: International
Airport Auxiliary Gate Expansion Project
$5,000,000 2026
FY2027 Community Project Funding: Public Safety
Surveillance Program
$1,000,000 2026
USDOT Safe Streets and Roads 4 All: Convention
Center Connectivity Plan
$1,565,000 2026
Lowes Community Bucket List Grant: Navigation
Center Food Distribution
$250,000 2026
CAC Arts in California Parks: Wyatt Mural
Transformation
$100,000 2026
Selected for Final Round
of Review, Application
due June 26th, 2026
CNRA Urban Greening Grant: Convention Center
Connectivity
$3,000,000 2026
FEMA SAFER Grant: PSFD Staffing Costs TBD Application in Progress – due June 22
FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant: PSFD
Equipment Costs
TBD Application in Progress –
due June 22
CPUC Broadband Adoption Account: Library
Internet Access Project
TBD Application in Progress –
due July 1
California DPR Statewide Parks and Community
Development Program: TBD City Park Project
TBD Application in Progress –
anticipated deadline
December 2026

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Attachment D
Public Integrity Disclosure
Form

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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS – PUBLIC INTEGRITY DISCLOSURE

APPLICANT DISCLOSURE FORM

Page 1 of 2 ends

(Revised 09 13 18)

PUBLIC INTEGRITY DISCLOSURE

APPLICANT DISCLOSURE FORM

1. Name of Entity

2. Address of Entity (Principle Place of Business)

3. Local or California Address (if different than #2)

4. State where Entity is Registered with Secretary of State If other than California, is the Entity also registered in California?  Yes  No

5. Type of Entity
 Corporation  Limited Liability Company  Partnership  Trust  Other (please specify)

6. Officers, Directors, Members, Managers, Trustees, Other Fiduciaries (please specify) Note: If any response is not a natural person, please identify all officers, directors, members, managers and other fiduciaries for the member, manager, trust or other entity _________________________________________________  Officer  Director  Member  Manager [name]
 General Partner  Limited Partner
 Other ____________________________________
_________________________________________________  Officer  Director  Member  Manager [name]
 General Partner  Limited Partner
 Other ____________________________________
_________________________________________________  Officer  Director  Member  Manager [name]
 General Partner  Limited Partner
 Other ____________________________________

TOWNSEND PUBLIC AFFAIRS, INC
1401 DOVE STREET, SUITE 430, NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92660
CA

X

CHRISTOPHER TOWNSEND

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CITY OF PALM SPRINGS – PUBLIC INTEGRITY DISCLOSURE

APPLICANT DISCLOSURE FORM

Page 2 of 2 ends

(Revised 09 13 18)

7. Owners/Investors with a 5% beneficial interest in the Applicant Entity or a related entity

EXAMPLE

JANE DOE
[name of owner/investor]
50%, ABC COMPANY, Inc.
[percentage of beneficial interest in entity
and name of entity]
A.
[name of owner/investor] [percentage of beneficial interest in entity
and name of entity]
B.
[name of owner/investor] [percentage of beneficial interest in entity
and name of entity]
C.
[name of owner/investor] [percentage of beneficial interest in entity
and name of entity]
D.
[name of owner/investor] [percentage of beneficial interest in entity
and name of entity]
E.
[name of owner/investor] [percentage of beneficial interest in entity and name of entity]

I DECLARE UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA THAT THE FOREGOING IS TRUE AND CORRECT.

Signature of Disclosing Party, Printed Name, Title Date CHRISTOPHER TOWNSEND 100%
JUNE 10, 2026

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CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE: JULY 8, 2026 BUSINESS & LEGISLATIVE
SUBJECT: DISCUSSION OF CITY MAYORAL POSITION AND REPORT FROM AD

HOC SUBCOMMITTEE
FROM: Scott C. Stiles, City Manager
BY: Brenda Pree, City Clerk
SUMMARY:

This report provides an opportunity for the City Council Mayoral Position Ad Hoc Subcommittee (Garner/deHarte) to provide an update on ongoing discussions regarding the City’s mayoral position.

RECOMMENDATION:

Receive and file this report and provide direction to Staff as appropriate.

BACKGROUND:

At the City Council meeting of April 8, 2026, the City Council created an ad hoc subcommittee to further discussions regarding the City’s mayoral position, and appointed Councilmember Garner and Councilmember deHarte as subcommittee members.

STAFF ANALYSIS:

Staff has consolidated California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) records within the City’s document repository (Laserfiche) and established a dedicated webpage to enhance public access to historical materials related to the subject matter. This aims to facilitate efficient searches and promote transparency.

ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLANNING
This item aligns with the City Council’s Strategic Plan Foundation to advance fiscal sustainability and organizational resilience.

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City Council Staff Report
July 8, 2026 -- Page 2
Discussion of City Mayoral Position and Report from Ad Hoc Subcommittee FISCAL IMPACT:

None at this time.

REVIEWED BY:

Department Director: Brenda Pree
City Manager: Scott Stiles
ATTACHMENTS:

A. California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) Document Central Link: California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) and City Webpage

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ATTACHMENT A
California Voting Rights Act (CVRA)
Document Central Link: California Voting Rights
Act (CVRA) & City Webpage

D – Page 1295 of 1296

Page 1 ends

*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, July 1, 2026
August 26 – Regular Meeting
• Hotel Incentive Agreement, Palm Mountain Resort – Public Hearing (10 minutes) • Authorization to Bond, Convention Center Project – Business & Legislative (15 minutes) • Discussion of Data Center Moratorium – Business & Legislative (30 minutes) • Dream Hotel Project Update – Business & Legislative (30 minutes) September 9 – Regular Meeting

A – Page 1296 of 1296

Palm Springs City CouncilJuly 8, 2026

Palm Springs City Council
July 8, 2026