Development News for Desert Hot Springs, California

City Council Approves New Contract for Crisis Stabilization and Homelessness Outreach Services

The City Council approved a one-year agreement, with options for three additional one-year extensions, with Social Work Action Group (SWAG) for the operation of the city's crisis stabilization center and homelessness outreach program. The new contract amount is not to exceed $625,000 annually. This follows a previous agreement amendment in May 2025 that reduced contract costs by over $400,000 by eliminating unnecessary staff positions and revising the service model to prioritize direct outreach and engagement. The revised model and new contract aim to better align resources with operational needs and expand homelessness services as community needs evolve.

Junior ROTC Program Highlights Leadership Development and Student Transformation

A video presentation showcased the Desert Hot Springs High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC program. The program's mission is to foster leadership and education, challenging students through classroom instruction, physical activity, and drill. Instructors train cadets to become future supervisors and managers by developing strong leadership skills. Several cadets shared their motivations for joining, including family influence, a desire for self-challenge, and the program's ability to build confidence and purpose. Students described how the program transformed them from shy and introverted individuals to more disciplined, confident, and outgoing people. The program aims to provide a clear path for students after high school, whether for military service or other careers, and offers support for students interested in any military branch.

Council Member Gardner Reports on JROTC Ceremony, Environmental Initiatives, Bicycle Safety, and Homeless Grant Advocacy

Council Member Gardner reported on several activities, including attending the Marine Corps Junior ROTC promotion and graduation ceremony, a celebration of life for former Public Safety Commissioner Lee Eastman, and meetings for the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy (CVMC) and Coachella Valley Conservation Commission (CVCC). The CVMC granted planning funds for a wildlife crossing bridge over Highway 62. The CVCC purchased land and renewed an MOU with the DHS police for patrolling CVCC lands. Gardner also spoke at the Ride of Silence, emphasizing the need for bicycle safety education and enforcement, and noted recent improvements to bike lanes on Hacienda. He was appointed to the SCAG Legislative Committee and discussed advocating for removing restrictions on homeless grants for cities not using the 'housing first' model. Additionally, he attended a street renaming ceremony honoring two high school valedictorians and provided information on aerial mosquito spraying in the northern part of the city.

Public Safety Commission Addresses Synthetic Kratom and Showcases Crime Center Capabilities

Council Member Pitts provided an update on his activities, including attending a Public Safety Commission meeting where Ryan Sherman of the California Narcotics Association discussed the dangers of 7OH, a synthetic kratom product, and its accessibility to children through products like 'Cray Cray Gummies'. The commission also toured the Palm Springs Police Department's Real-Time Intelligence and Crime Center, impressed by its capabilities and the dedication of law enforcement professionals.