Palm Springs Meaney Lawsuit A Joke

News came today that Palm Springs can now proceed with a lawsuit against Rich Meaney, the embattled Palm Springs developer over a $160,000 debt the city is claimed it is owed. The city claims  it is owed the funds because it had granted a $250,000 grant to Meaney and his Hacienda Cantina project for a 3 year period of operations. The placed closed closed after 1 year.

Meaney is a central figure in the ongoing corruption investigation into the former shall we say, questionable business practises at Palm Springs City Hall. I have been told by sources close to the investigation that he has been cooperating with the feds as they do their work.

It is fairly obvious that Meaney has no money. You can't get blood from a stone. This will only pad an already expensive city legal bill.

 An argument can be made that by filing the lawsuit, the city is merely protecting it's rights. Also that the city is preventing a moral hazard. I get that. But the real way you prevent this from happening again is to make sure the city never repeats such a corporate welfare type program. So why is the city still persisting with this Don Quixote-like litigation?

 Knowing the current political climate in Palm Springs, I fear the answer  as to why the city is pursuing this course is a matter of tacit obfuscation.  City Hall big shots like City Manager David Ready and Council persons Chris Mills and Ginny Foat can claim that they too were "victims" of the dastardly Rich Meaney. Of course that is all nonsense but such a course of action  will go over in certain sectors of Palm Springs.

The main question involving this grant question remains as to whether or not the program was used specifically to reward friends and supporters of former mayor Steve Pougnet. Anything else is just an entertaining sideshow.

Steve Kelly can be reached at svericker12@gmail.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj

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Potential Huge Political Shakeup In The Coachella Valley

With so many other political stories flying around, a potentially huge story has gone underneath the radar. That being the illness of 4th District Supervisor John Benoit. It could dramatically affect the local political scene.

To begin with, like all Valley residents, I wish Mr. Benoit well as he undergoes chemotherapy. Although a Republican, he is more of a moderate. He was elected to the Assembly in 2002, despite being opposed by the far right fringe of the local GOP led by then State Senator Jim Battin. In 2010, as Supervisor, he survived a far right challenge from former PSPD Police Chief Gary Jeandron who his run bankrolled by the Riverside Sheriffs Association. The election was nasty. In 2014, he easily beat Manny Perez.

What many in the Valley do not understand is that the position of Supervisor is a hugely powerful one. The county has a budget of over 5 billion dollars. The job controls a ton of patronage as well. And the Board only has 5 members. For the 25 years, I have lived here, it has been run by the Riverside County GOP with a figleaf of non-partisanship.

If due to illness, Mr. Benoit is forced to step down, Governor Brown will have the option of filling the seat till elections take place in 2018. Mr. Benoit himself was originally appointed in such a manner by then Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2009, succeeding the late Roy Wilson.

Brown will no doubt appoint a Democrat. If that were to occur, that would be sea change locally. There would be a change in staff. Despite the office allegedly being non-partisan, in reality it is not.

Talking with some local Democrats today, the name I hear over and over again is that of former Assemblyman Manny Perez. As previously mentioned, he ran and lost against Benoit. Perez was term limited after 6 years in the Assembly and currently sits on the Coachella City Council. Coachella is the East Valley hub of Democratic power; home to US Rep Dr. Raul Ruiz, and Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia.

A Perez appointment could rankle some LGBTQ Democrats in the West Valley. They may put forth a candidate like Palm Springs Councilman Geoff Kors or even Cathedral City Councilman Greg Pettis. However the Valley has a huge Hispanic population which has historically been under served  by the county. This fact could and should be a major factor in any appointment. It may be a very interesting few months.

Steve Kelly is a Blogger/Broadcaster based in the Coachella Valley. He can be e mailed at svericker12@gmail.com or followed on Twitter at 2skellynj

Palm Springs Hits The Streets

Last night as they were wrapping up mass at Our Lady Of Solitude church in Palm Springs, the priest said we had to listen to a pastoral letter from Bishop Gerald Barnes, the bishop of San Bernardino. The letter talked about the election and how we needed to pray for Donald Trump and come together.  They recessional song was God Bless America.

As I shook the priest's hand outside the church, I said, "The end was all well and good but I have to run and go protest against Trump." He gave me a surprised wave and off I went down the block to Frances Stevens Park.

The protest rally and ensuing march last night in Palm Springs has to be considered an unqualified success. Despite what you may see or hear on other media, there were over 1000 people there. Kids, gay, straight, white, black young and old presenting a real cross section of America. Diverse as you can get.

The Palm Springs PD was excellent. The crowd was well behaved and the police kept their distance. Now the older officers were a little more friendly than the younger ones but I chalk that up to experience and a little more maturity. And after last month's horrible events, one can easily understand.

The organizers, Eleanor Gonzalez, Kymberli Foster and Richard Noble did a marvelous job in putting together a peaceful exercising of First Amendment rights. There was no craziness and albeit everyone wanted to use it, very little profanity.

I think it was also a good thing that none of the local progressive officials or wannabe Palm Springs council candidates showed up. That would have struck me as a social media play adding nothing. I spotted a few incognito local Democratic officials along the way but they were very low key. They were there to march.

For me, I was encouraged that the staffers and patrons of many of the dining establishments offered support and encouragement  as protesters marched by. Also I have never seen so many cell phones being used to record, and take pictures. Everyone under 30 was doing so.

The organizers intend to keep up the pressure and we shall see if they do. Last night was a great start.

Steve Kelly can be followed on Twitter @skellynj or e mailed at svericker12@gmail.com

Election 2016

Well here we go again. The 2016 election is upon us. As always I go on record as to who and what local ballot measures will win. I am leaving out the school board elections because I really don't know the candidates.

Congress 36th District

Democrat Raul Ruiz in a walk over State Senator Jeff Stone. Stone, who didn't even live in the district while running is shall we say an eccentric politician. He seems to be running against Iran judging by his TV ads. Ruiz is a solid choice here.

California Assembly 42nd

Despite having challenges with money, Greg Rodriguez has run a terrific campaign against Republican minority leader Chad Mayes. The question is turnout. Mayes has to be favored but this is one to watch.

Cathedral City Council

John Aguilar and Greg Pettis are both incumbents and should win. Greg Pettis has done a remarkable tight rope act in the last year from working as Republican Jeff Stone's aide to becoming a Democratic super delegate. He is the undisputed boss of Cathedral City politics right now. An unimaginable comeback from just a few years ago.

Cathedral City Measure P

This measure would tax pot if it legalized by state proposition. It passes.

Cathedral City Measure HH

This is he charter city amendment. The one sticking point seems to be the change to a rotational form of mayoralty in 2018. On social media both the pro and anti HH forces are duking it out with a zeal that is both inspired and ludicrous at times. A lot of the fight appears to be about former mayor Kathy DeRosa. Reading the rhetoric one would think a revolution is in the offing either way. I think it passes and Mr. Pettis fulfills a 20 year elusive dream by being called "Mr. Mayor" in 2019.

Palm Desert

Palm Desert has a reputation of stability. That is why I feel that incumbents Van Tanner and Susan Marie Weber are back. I also think Kathleen Kelly, daughter of long time council person the late Dick Kelly wins. She edges out Gina Nestande, who is from a Valley political dynasty herself.

Measure T

This a raise in TOT or hotel tax. Despite the council pushing it, I think it fails.

Indian Wells

Incumbents Ty Peabody, Doug Hanson and Ted Mertens win. Hanson remains one the most "colorful" candidates I have interviewed.

Measures

CV Link

I think Indian Wells joins Rancho Mirage in opposing the CV Link

TOT Tax Increase

They vote to raise it.

La Quinta

Linda Evans wins as Mayor.  Kristy Franklin and Victoria Llort win as well. Perennial candidate Steve Sanchez who is running for council is so enthusiastic, he has posted signs on Fred Waring in Indian Wells!! By the way, I was in La Quinta today and the amount of political signage has to be seen to be believed.

Sales Tax Measure Increase

Passes

Indio

I think Glenn Miller and Lupe Watson win re-election. But as with all local elections, there are subplots and ironies. Developer Nachhattar Chandi appears to striving to be the Harold Matzner of the East Valley as he has given over 41 grand to Miller and newcomer Joan Dzuro. Plus council member Mike Wilson, a ahem free spirit, has funded a mailer against Lupe Watson. This is traced back to Watson stopping the opening invocation at a few council meetings. Who says all politics isn't local and sometimes ridiculously petty?

Sales Tax Measure Increase

Passes.

We can check back Wednesday.  Or it being Riverside County, February 11th, 2017.

Steve Kelly is a blogger in the Coachella Valley and can be reached at svericker12@gmail.com or on twitter @skellynj

KESQ Goes Down Tabloid Road

The local TV news business can be tough in a small market like Palm Springs. As a news director your roster consists of a mixture of veterans and rookies. Your news department is also a profit center, one of the most important ones for your station. You want to get as many eyeballs as possible to look at your product. You need to be out in the community to build brand awareness.

Taking all this into consideration, it is still disappointing that KESQ is going down an easy rpath by having an "exclusive" interview with the brother of slain Palm Springs Police Officer Gil Vega tomorrow night. It also promoting this with the nonsensical title of "Beyond the Badge." All this takes place in the TV sweeps month of November. (Sweeps occur 3 months of the year and are critical is setting local ad rates.)

I willingly point out that I have many friends at KESQ and its sister station KPSP or Channel 2. I consider them fine journalists and they were even kind enough to have me on during the Steve Pougnet mess.

As a rule commenting on local media when I have been a part of it for 20 years is something I try to avoid. I know the ins and outs of the media business. It is only when something egregious takes place in my view that commentary is necessary. And this "exclusive" sets off all the alarm bells.

"Beyond The Badge" smacks of something that came out of the promotions department. There is no new content or story advancement here. In my opinion, it is the pure exploitation of a tragedy for ratings purposes. In essence therefore,it is the very definition of tabloid journalism.

Ironically last week the Palm Springs Police Officers Association, (PSPOA) denounced the Desert Sun's interview with the brother of the suspect in the killing of officer Vega and his partner Lesley Zerebny as "tabloid journalism" when it clearly was not. That is not the case here as the promo runs endlessly with Mr. Vega wishing he could have "changed places" with his brother. This is the kind of stuff papers like the New York Daily News or Los Angeles Herald lived on in a bygone era.

Whoever thought putting something like this on TV was a good idea and then promoting really needs to rethink this. Ratings arent everything.

Steve Kelly can be reached at svericker12@gmail.com or followed on Twitter at @skellynj

Inappropriate Attack On The Desert Sun By Palm Springs Police Union

"The names have been changed to protect the innocent." This disclaimer has been used on police shows since the 1950's. I once asked my Dad, a 23 year veteran of the FBI, what that meant when I was a kid. He was a kind man and he said that people who do horrible things have families  Those people should not be blamed for things they didn't do. The change of names was to protect them from public scorning.

Palm Springs is still reeling from the murder of 2 police officers earlier this month. The accused killer is now facing the death penalty.

The Desert Sun published an article including quotes from the brother of the suspect who is currently himself in jail. In it, he spoke abut some of the trauma his family is going through. It was clearly stated he was in jail and he in no way condoned his brother's actions. I thought it was very thoughtful. My only issue with it was it may have been published too early. If it were my call I may have waited.

The Palm Springs Police officers Association (PSPOA) went crazy on their Facebook page accusing the Desert Sun of moral equivalency and tabloid journalism. They also pointed out that the source from the article was in jail.

The PSPOA has a very checkered and controversial past. It has also been involved in feuds with the Desert Sun before. I truly believe that the members of the union have no understanding of either media or the role of journalism. Rather they just parrot charges of  "tabloid journalism" without understanding what they are saying.

Many of the tributes to Officer Gil Vega talked about him as a role model to some young relatives. An outstanding officer, he knew that some of them had been arrested. He was not judged by this. He  and Officer Lesley Zerebny are heroes. The police union is in pain and I understand that. Like many citizens I contributed at the fundraising drive for both officers and did my best to publicize the PSPOA event at City Hall.

Now is the time for healing and for supporting the officer's families. Ill informed vindictive rants that feel good temporarily but really are superfluous to the business at hand are an unnecessary distraction.

Steve Kelly can be reacher at svericker12@gmail.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj

Palm Springs Needs Time To Heal

Imagine my surprise yesterday, that whilst listening to the radio, I was informed the city of Palm Springs had hastily sent out an erroneous benefits letter to the families of the 2 recently slain Palm Springs police officers. Apparently there was some confusion about insurance coverage. What should have been a minor matter exploded into a debate that can only exists on talk radio. Assertions, assumptions by the hosts and uninformed opinions spewed back and forth. I get that. I was in that industry for 20 years. But it really never should have gotten to that. The 2 main culprits in this unnecessary drama were the city and the Palm Springs Police Officers Association.

In the future City Manager David Ready  should oversee the benefits process for both families period. He is now asking Doug Holland, soon to be departing City Attorney to look into the matter. The deaths of Gil Vega and Lesley Zerebny demand that all actions regarding their survivors must be overseen by the top and not by a junior city clerk.

The Palm Springs POA has to do a better job too. They obviously leaked this story to the media. A quick call to their attorney would have shown the letter was not accurate and well not clearly written, The city has acknowledged this. Instead it was attempt by whoever leaked this to needlessly inflame passions. While I have been critical of the PSPOA in the past, I chalk this up to an unfortunate yet over emotional reaction to a mundane matter.

It these times of sorrow, caution and common sense must prevail.

Steve Kelly can reached at kellyscorner227@gmail.com  or followed on Twitter @skellynj

Calling Out The Local Deplorables In Palm Springs And Riverside County

The great Tip O'Neill once said that all politics is local. The longer I write and talk about politics, the more that statement appears to be true. We here in Palm Springs and Riverside County have quite a few odious Trump minions. In no particular order, I present some of the local 2016. Deplorables.

Richard Grenell

The Log Cabin Republican and Palm Springs resident has appeared on Fox News where he is a contributor. Besides peddling conspiracies,  Grenell is one of Trump's high powered LGTBQ supporters who has said, "Trump is down with the gays." He also accused MSNBC correspondent Katie Tur of sleeping her way to her current post. Locally, he endorsed Rob Moon in the Palm Springs Mayor race last year.

David Wohl

Based in Riverside, this attorney got his start as a political pundit here on the CBS 2. Wohl is constantly on Fox defending Trump, occasionally going off the rails. My favorite story about him is when he tried interject himself in one of a myriad of cases involving Lindsay Lohan. She never hired him!! A complete publicity hound.

Nachhattar Chandi

Local gas station mogul and owner of the new Dunkin' Donuts in Indio. He is spending huge on the Trump campaign, On his payroll, he has former Riverside County big shot Tom Freeman.

Riverside County GOP

The local party had been in hot soup already. Nathan Miller a high official a ranking official was made to resign after he tweeted that Hillary Clinton should be hung. Couple this with the fact that at it's "Salute To Law Enforcement" in June, the guest of honor was Milwaukee Sheriff David Clarke. This wing nut has recently called for what some perceive as an armed revolt if Trump loses.

Marion Ashley

The 5th District Supervisor was a Trump delegate at the 2016 election. He has a history of backing extreme right wing candidates and ha always clashes with Democrats in his District. A myopic man who remains very powerful.

It will interesting to see if local Democrats, especially the newly arrived, will go to the parapets and fight the local fight  against this crew.

Steve Kelly is a blogger/broadcaster based in the Coachella Valley. He can be reached at kellyscorner227@gmail.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj

Awful Tragedy In Palm Springs Begs Answers On Gun Control

Like many residents of the Coachella Valley I was physically sickened by the killing of police officers Gil Vega and Lesley Zerenby. Unlike many of my friends, I support capital punishment in some cases and this is one where I feel it could certainly apply. Not only am I saddened but I am angry as well.

A report in the Desert Sun details the type of weapon used in this cowardly, vile ambush. An AR-15, armor piercing bullets and a bullet proof vest were utilized by the suspect. I am aware the he is a felon and as such not allowed to legally possess such a firearm. But alleged illegal access to such fire power obviously was no precursor to obtaining these weapons.

Palm Springs is in a county where the presiding Sheriff calls the AR-15 "America's musket". Yes, the same model gun that was used to kill the wife of one of his deputies. Palm Springs is also the town where 2 misguided council members voted against an ordinance that requires a the reporting of stolen weaponry.  Our county shooting range is used by the vile NRA to put on shooting clinics. Yes that is the same NRA that has opposed banning armor piercing bullets since the 1980s and also has fought any attempt to ban the AR-15 weapons in any shape or form,

 The same crowd that so loudly wants the death penalty and to "lock them up" is so strangely silent on our police being outgunned. Or they propose ridiculous solutions. One local media wag thought police should now be armed like the military, of course forgetting that a militarized police force will create so many more problems. How about getting rid of military style weapons that are openly sold at gun shows like the one our Sheriff Stan Sniff promoted on his Facebook page?

Now anyone mentioning sensible gun legislation will now be accused of politicizing this tragedy. So be it. If anything good can come out of this horrible incident, the shining of the light of exposure on these gun zealots in local government may be one thing.

In a Valley Voice back on June 17, 2016 in reference to RC Sheriff Stan Sniff, I wrote:

What I do not agree to is a sheriff who is using his office to further the objectives of a rabid band of irresponsible zealots who may one day use legally purchased assault-style weapons against the brave men and women he command.

I stand by that and hope after the services next week, leaders in the Valley will join together to address this issue.

Steve Kelly can be reached at kellyscorner227@gmail.com or @skellynj on twitter.

Your News My Views 10-7-16

Well a lot of stuff has been going on locally, so let us get right to it.

Your News: Desert Trip is ready, set, go.

My Views: This should be fun. Yeah the parody of it writes itself but I hope everyone has a good time. And that Roger Waters keeps his shirt on! Please. Also will be fun to see Palm Springs try to claim this as theirs. Considering that many newer residents of Palm Springs have never been to Indio, this one is rich.

Your News: Desert Sun endorses all 3 incumbents in Indian Wells Council race.

My Views: Not too surprising as peace has descended upon the good leaders of Indian Wells. It was amusing that the Desert Sun endorsed Doug Hanson and never mentioned the infamous hamburger "going where the sun doesn't shine" incident. That whole incident led to one of the best headlines ever in the Desert Sun. Mr. Hanson's son wrote a Valley Voice with the banner reading MY DAD DOESN'T NEED THERAPY. Classic

Your News; Desert Sun endorses Measure HH in Cathedral City

My Views; A big win for them.

Your News; Desert Sun does not endorse Greg Pettis in his re-election bid.

My Views: Interesting. Pettis who basically runs the city behind the scenes must not be too thrilled. He is running in tandem with John Aguilar. Instead the Desert Sun has endorsed Aguilar and Planning Commissioner Sergio Espericueta. I harbor no doubts that Pettis will be re-elected, Mr. Espericueta has been the subject of a whispering campaign that he is not proficient in English and is also a stooge being run by former Mayor Kathy DeRosa. Ms. DeRosa has vigorously denied any involvement in the campaign I guess those whispers did not dissuade the Desert Sun

Your News: Greg Rodriguez mounts good campaign in the 42nd District race against Chad Mayes.

My Views; Never easy to take on an incumbent and especially if that incumbent is the Assembly Minority leader. In order to prevail, Greg will need a huge plurality in Palm Springs. Considering that Mayes is a Liberty University graduate which is a red flag to the LGBTQ community, it will be a race if Rodriguez gets one.

Your News: I see Gary Jeandron, former PSPD Chief and failed Supervisor and GOP Assembly candidate at Starbucks today in Palm Desert.

My Views; Always a little sad because he is one of the few politicians who does not speak to me. Jeandron was a reasonable Police Chief but afterward, he started hanging out with a real mean segment of the local GOP. I called him out on that. I did decide and let discretion be the better part of valor as I did not ask him how his 2012 "investigation" into Dr. Raul Ruiz was going?

Have fun if you are heading to the concert.

Steve Kelly can be reached at svericker12@gmail.com or @skellynj

Start Me Up!! Old Man Looks At This Life As Local Media Tends To Be Blowin In The Wind On Desert Trip

It sure is going to be a crazy 2 weeks here in the Valley as rock legends take the stage for Desert Trip. It will be interesting to see how the local media treats the spectacle. There have already been a few signs and they are not promising. Fawning coverage fueled by a need to be "hip" may equal a toxic, non-crafted brew. With past as prologue, here may be a few things you may be reading in upcoming days complete with helpful translations.

Statement: They may not be young, but they still know how to rock.
Translation: Old people dancing is just frightening.

Statement: It's just like when I was at Woodstock.
Translation: If your 19 year old self could garner access to a time machine. it would show up in 2016 just to beat you up.

Statement: Famed LA Designer/Chef/DJ/Hairstylist Oogie Boogie spotted in the crowd.
Translation: No one except those who watch Bravo at 430 in the morning has the foggiest notion who Oogie Boogie is.

Statement: The following celebrities were seen at Desert Trip..
Translation: I thought fill-in-the-blank was dead.

Statement: The Riverside County Coroner's Office is continuing to investigate but a heart attack is suspected.
Translation: All in all, Bob is now just another urn in the wall.

Statement: You would think at his/her age they would have known better.
Translation: Acid and being 70 don't really go hand in hand.

Statement: The crowd was hip and not the replacement kind.
Translation: Can't I turn a phrase?

Statement: Can't wait till next year!!
Translation: I wish Forest Lawn would stop sending me those mailers.

Steve Kelly can be reached at svericker12@gmail.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj

Measure HH In Cathedral City

I had a great time at the Desert Sun's political pop-up event on Saturday. There were of course, a lot of local candidates there. The sane, the reality-challenged, the good, the bad and the ugly. It was great to see a lot of folks I haven't seen in quite some time. At some of these events, I feel like Methuselah. In a fast moving area like the desert, I suppose that should be expected.

There were also issue tables as well. Since many of you know I live in Cathedral City, I paid particular attention to both the sides on Measure HH, the Charter City Ballot Initiative. I found it both interesting and flattering that both groups asked me I were running for council in 2018. I'll take a flyer on that for now. What was intriguing is what I learned about HH on both sides of the issue.

No On HH

The opponents of HH are really focused on one portion of the initiative. That being the end of the direct election of mayor and going to a council rotation system, Really nothing was said about the other aspects of a charter city such as more control in state relations and better contract negotiating ability. It was all focused on the mayoral question.

Yes On HH

This is the city powers baby. Nothing wrong with that. But they have a lot of work to do. I got a great explanation on one aspect of HH that many in the public do not know. The start of the mayor's rotation does not commence till 2018. Stan Henry will serve as mayor for 2 more years.

My Thoughts

A lot of the usual players in Cathedral City politics are here. The Yes on HH say a directly elected mayor with only a 2 year term leads to division on the council. Perhaps, but the mayoral rotation system has led to problems in at least one city out here, Indian Wells.

The city fathers say they all like each other so that can't happen. Harmony on city councils is like love in spring. Wonderful while it lasts, but usually oh so fleeting. At some point a council member is going to be elected who the rest don't like.

By the way, hats off to the YES on HH video on youtube. It plays EDM music while someone who is 35 years younger than anyone on the council dances.

If you live in Cathedral City, read both the pro and con. They have both some good arguments and some not-so-good explanations. Then vote.

Steve Kelly is a blogger/broadcaster in the Coachella Valley, He can be reached at kellyscorner@gmail.com or on Twitter at @skellynj

HUUUGE Trump Supporter In The Desert To Open First Local Dunkin' Donuts

Let me state for the record I love Dunkin' Donuts. When I used to fly back home to New Jersey, I always stopped at the counter in Newark Airport for an apple crumb donut. When I was covering Angels Spring Training in Arizona, it was great to see them in Tempe. I longed for the day they would come to the Coachella Valley.

That day has arrived and like so many other days  in my life, it is bittersweet. 3 trips to the doctor in 2 weeks and 5 bags of prescription pills may mean Dunkin' and I will only have our memories. Plus like soda with no fizz, it was rather flat to find out who the new owner is.

Nachhattar Chandi is the man in the dough, literally anf figuratively. He owns a bunch of area gas stations. He also employs Tom Freeman, a long time GOP operative and former county official. And Mr. Chandi has spent half a million dollars, yes half a million dollars to fund a Donald Trump Super Pac. This even sparked protests at one of his gas stations last month.. I'll give Chandi this, it does take a lot of sprinkles to open a business in a heavily Hispanic area while giving half a million to support Trump.

In a week where Mr. Trump has made headlines for his comments on other people's weight, his biggest supporter in the Valley is getting set to open up a donut shop. Rather ironic one would say. Will East Valley Dems speak up on this? Will any Indio leaders comment on this? Or will they remain silent!!

In an intense election season, it will be interesting to find out.

Steve Kelly is a blogger/broadcaster based in the Coachella Valley and can be reached at KellysCorner227@gmail.com or on Twitter @skellynj

Road Construction In The Valley All Wet

After having a brief but needed visit from the rain gods, it is quite apparent that many of our local streets are more suited for Cambodia than the Coachella Valley. Shoddy construction, engineering flaws and ridiculously long lengths of projects combine for a witches brew of transportation poison here in the Valley. Here are a few examples:

Valley Flooding

While we are blessed to have very few days of inclement weather, it is ridiculous that the same areas flood year and after year with little or no effort being taken by elected officials or CVAG to to alleviate the situation. They should be raising hell about it. I realize that there supposedly is being a bridge scheduled to be built on Vista Chino between the Cathedral City and Palm Springs but does anyone have a timetable on that?

The flooding on the Cathedral City side of the Dinah Shore Drive Bridge is ludicrous. This bridge is only 16 years old and there has been no attempt at seriously addressing this problem.

Length Of Construction

Why is it that most Valley road construction takes a huge amount of time?  (I'll provide part of the answer blow. It's a classic.) While I am grateful that the addition of 2 lanes and a traffic light at Vista Chino and Gene Autry which commenced construction in 1951 was recently finished, I still wonder about the construction on Bob Hope and Frank Sinatra administration. Started recently, at the pace it is going. it may be completed in time for the tricentennial, in 2076!!!

Partial Reason For Glacial Delays

This s a good one. For 15 years, I have been arguing that the Valley via CVAG needs to partner with and engineering school and get an underground schematic map. Then add to it as new utility lines are installed. There is currently no such map. Many a road project in the Valley is delayed when they hit unmarked utilities. It would be worth spending up to 500 grand to get this started. It would make a huge difference in our Valley. What makes this situation even more disturbing is the fact many of these pipes were laid so long ago. In the 1980's and 90s. Yes many of our towns have no idea what lies beneath.

Political Will

Roads are neither liberal or conservative. gay, straight or bisexual. They will get you to your destination whether you are white, back or brown. Your net worth or lack thereof means nothing. To wrap it up, safe transportation should be the top priority of every elected official. The staffs of all should co-operate in this manner, Will they?

Hold on while I get my scuba mask and oxygen tank while I traverse down Cathedral Canyon.

Steve kelly is a blogger and broadcaster in the Coachella Valley. He can be reached at KellysCorner227@gmail.com or followed on twitter at @skellynj

Rotating Mayors Make Me Spin Right Round In Palm Springs and Cathedral City

One of the benefits of modern communication is the ability to keep up to date as to what is going on at home. While on my trip to the Northwest I was able to keep up on local events. As we head down the stretch in the local election season, voters in Cathedral City will be asked to vote on whether or not to become a charter city. There are benefits to doing so.

I remember this debate well almost 2 decades ago in Palm Springs. I think there is merit in becoming a charter city as far as city state relations and the negotiation of municipal contracts. Now please bear in mind I never tell anyone how to vote as I feel you are far too intelligent to be swayed by any word written or spoken. What I don't understand is why the abolition of the direct election of mayor is tied into this? It really has nothing to do with a charter city. I think there is a driving force and I will get to that soon.

Currently La Quinta, Cathedral City, DHS and Palm Springs all have directly elected mayors. In DHS and Cathedral City, the directly elected mayor serves only a 2 year term while the council serves 4 year terms. In Palm Springs and La Quinta, the mayor does a 4 year stint like the rest of the council.

I will be the first to admit, that the currently structured system for electing mayors in both DHS and Cathedral City has caused chaos. Too many times. a sitting council member with nothing to lose has taken a "free shot" at a sitting mayor. This does cause disharmony as sometimes local politicos have thin skins. Shocking I know.

Now proponents of rotating the mayor among council members say it is more efficient and since the posts are largely ceremonial, it should be no big deal. The arguments pro and con are laid out well in this piece by Hank Plante. (Note to my friend, while the age joke about the Rancho Mirage council is funny, the members of the Palm Springs council all have fully paid up AARP cards.)

In Palm Springs, the move to a non-elected city council appears to be being pushed by the 876, er 241, er 53 members of the Ethics Task Force. (I'm sorry, the number of members is still ridiculous.) I think this is an end around campaign finance limitations. Let's face it, the last election was ludicrous with Council member Ginny Foat's run being financed well into 6 figures by one man, Harold Matzner. By eliminating the direct election of mayor, you eliminate this problem. Clever and it will be interesting to see if it comes out in the wash shortly.

In Cathedral City unfortunately it appears that the end of the direct election of  mayor is being touted for a different reason. Many of the pro comments on both social and traditional media either obliquely or openly refer negatively to former mayor Kathy DeRosa. Some current city council members had a difficult relationship with her. Kathy has been out of office for a few years. If the council is serious about changing the role of mayor, the debate on the charter and the change to a mayoral rotation system has to be elevated.

In my 21 years of living in Cathedral City, this has been one of the best councils I have ever seen. But right now, the argument in favor of a rotating mayor seems to be based more on past grievance than on positive governance. If this continues, it may affect the vote on the charter question.

Steve Kelly is a writer and broadcaster based in the Coachella Valley. He can reached at KellysCorner227@gmail.com or #skellynj on Twitter.

Foat And Mills Misfire In Gun Debate

Last night the Palm Springs City Council voted 3 to 2 to enact in my opinion, some sensible gun control ordinances. Basically they involve basic safety procedures and the reporting of missing or stolen firearms. As can be expected these days, NRA zealots protested the move. Kudos to Geoff Kors for proposing the legislation. It will come back for a final vote n a few weeks.

As far as the gun safety aspect of using trigger locks or locking up a weapon, I have had some personal experience. My father was in law enforcement for 36 years and every night he came home, the gun went into a locked box. Then he gave up his gun when he retired. There were 6 boys in the house and my dad was very safety conscious. 

Now the 3 2 vote was one to take note of. Kors was joined by JR Roberts and Mayor Rob Moon. Moon is interesting because he was a career military man. Roberts said he was a gun owner.

On the other side both Chris Mills and Ginny Foat were equally interesting albeit misguided in their stated reasons to oppose the ordinances. Let me make it clear, both of these representatives have the right to vote their conscience. What was jaw dropping for me were the reasons the duo stated.            

Mills stated he felt the new laws could only work in a reactive manner. There would be no active deterrent. There is no way he can know that. A long and distinguished public career in Palm Springs seems to be ending as a contestant in an Abe Simpson sound-a-like contestant.

Next up was Ginny Foat who said as a gun owner there was no way she was not removing the gun she keeps next to her bed.  Given her "colorful" past, (No I am not going in full detail but you thought it about too.) one may have thought Ms. Foat would have been a tad more measured in her comments. And as it appears to be more and more, one would be wrong.

Both Foat and Mills are up for re-election next year and it is hard for me to see either one of them running again. But it is Palm Springs and as we all know, anything can happen. And usually does.

Steve Kelly is a logger/podcaster based in the Coachella Valley. He can reached at kellyscorner227@gmail.com or on twitter @skellynj,

Shots Fired Against The NRA In Palm Springs

2 proposed ordinances in Palm Springs, spear headed by Councilman Geoff Kors  involving firearms safety legislation may be seen as opening salvo against Riverside County Sheriff Stan Sniff.  Basically they would call for guns to locked securely and to be reported immediately when missing or stolen. This all seems to be very reasonable.

Now some have mentioned that these proposed ordinances are a reaction to the mass killing of LGBTQ members at the Pulse night club in Orlando, Florida. In the past few years we have seen mass murder occur at not only a gay night club, but also at an elementary school. a movie theater, and a holiday party. Gun control,like no other issue we face, transcends identity politics. It is an issue that with the exception of a few zealots almost all the American people agree on. More safeguards on firearm ownership.

How Sniff will react to this is unfortunately predictable. Our Sheriff constantly badgers our local elected officials on any sort of sensible gun legislation. His own Facebook Page is full of pro-NRA propaganda. You can rest assured Palm Springs will be hearing from him soon.

And when that time occurs, I trust that the city will stand firm. I hope other Valley cities will follow Palm Springs as well and pass similar ordinances. Though I am not holding my breathe on Indian Wells.

Steve Kelly is a broadcaster and blogger ased in the Coachella Valley. He can be reached kellyscorner227@gmail.com or on twitter @skellynk

How Will You Commemorate The Raid On Palm Springs City Hall?

It will be one year on Thursday since a joint Federal-County Task Force raided Palm Springs City Hall. I will be in the Northwest but in keeping with the spirit of Palm Springs, I propose several activities to which those of you who are still here can partake in to mark this momentous occasion.

The Chris Mills Prediction Sweepstakes

In keeping with the tradition of Councilman Chris Mills saying in May 2015 that anyone who thought the DA would raid Palm Springs was "ridiculous", contestants can make predictions as well. I for one, predict that the City will collect not one dime on the Hacienda Cantina lawsuit.

The Find Steve Pougnet Contest

Joined by Broadway Celebrity Carol Channing, contestants can try to find the former Mayor who is at the heart of the probe. He did promise to return here often, but like Forever Marilyn he has vanished. Unlike Marilyn, I doubt he is coming back soon.

The Hamilton Burger Contest

Join soon to be let go City Attorney Doug Holland as you attempt to give out the worst possible advice to fellow contestants. Then deny you gave the advice. This game comes with its own Freedom Of Information Act request forms.

Nothing To See Here

You and your fellow revelers will be told that something that happened is "no big deal" or "get over it" by a helpful chorus of PS "Insiders".

Congratulate Yourself On Breathing

Take a cue from Palm Springs City Officials and congratulate yourself for doing what you have no choice but to do.  In their case, it is co-operating with document requests and other items. They are being transparent, true but they have no other choice.

Blame The Messenger

Just like some in the community blame the Desert Sun for the problems Palm Springs faces, blame someone in your life for what you have done. Assume a false aura of moral superiority and  with a smidge of condescension.

The Mid-Modern Red Carpet

My favorite. Stroll down the red carpet with other VIPS while listening to Frank and Dean at the Prairie Schooner Lot. You will feel like the million bucks that Palm Springs undercharged Rich Meaney when he and his partners purchased that lot.

All in all please have yourself an Aftab Dada Doo time.

Steve Kelly is a writer/podaster based in the Coachella Valley. He can be reached at kellyscorner227@gmail.com or via Twitter at @skellynj

Black Lives Matter Comes To Palm Springs

The Black Lives Matters Movement came to Palm Springs last night and their protest march and rally was a complete breathe of fresh air in the Valley. This group, which has been maligned and labeled as a hate movement similar to the KKK by right wing media, put on a well organized, friendly rally. If these people are a hate movement, so is your local church choir.

It was a completely diverse crowd, that included people of all stripes braving the heat. Protests tend to draw interesting types but fortunately there was only a few such at the march. I was struck by what a wonderful job the organizers did. Everyone was made to feel welcome. Even an aging white guy like myself. I can not stress enough that the young people who were the organizers were just terrific.

As I said last night, a big tip of the hat to PS Councilman Geoff Kors, his partner PSUSD member James Williamson and future PS Council candidate Lisa Middleton for showing up to support the protest. I did see representatives from Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia's office but none from Chad Mayes or Jeff Stone's office.

The Palm Springs Police Department was out and they did a nice job. Lt. Mike Kovaleff is a great role model to newer officers. He mingled with the crowd and was totally professional. I do wish other officers would have followed his cue but since a forum is being planned between BLM and the police, the issue should right itself.

Before the march, I was curious to see whether local LGBTQ groups would show up. I have often wondered in the past 6 months whether Palm Springs is turning into a single issue 1% community. I am pleased to say I may be jumping the gun on that. There were many LGBTQ members and groups who showed up last night.

Having lived in the Valley for a quarter century, it was completely rejuvenating to see how much the Valley has grown politically.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or on Twitter @skellynj





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BLM March To Test Progressive Movement In The Valley

How progressive is the Coachella Valley? That question is about to be put to the test with a Black Lives Matter protest scheduled in downtown Palm Springs next week. The event starts on Monday, July 25th at 7PM at Frances Stevens Park.

Of course, participation may be less than can be expected depending on how warm the weather is and people being out of town. So far BLM has done a good job of using social media to get the word out. And to their credit, the PSPD has acted professionally. The PSPOA (Palm Springs Police Officers Association) has uncharacteristically also been restrained. This is also welcome.

This being Oz with a plethora of new residents, many do not realize the problems faced historically by Latino and African Americans in the Valley. It was only a few years ago that Palm Springs finally apologized for the disgraceful behavior used in clearing Section 14 of minority residents back in the 60's.

My late brother Tom was an avid car collector. One of his pride and joys was a 1960's Chevy low rider. One weekend in the 90's, while he was visiting me in Palm Springs, we were pulled over twice by PSPD in the span of 4 hours. Imagine both officer's surprise when the passengers were 2 red headed Irishmen!!! The first official reason given was an obstructed plate and the 2nd was a faulty tail light. Neither was remotely true and we went on our way. I imagine that if we were Latino, the result would have been different.

If white readers want a surprise, ask your friends from the Black and Latino community how many times they have been pulled over or had their license plates run by local police.. I bet you willed be shocked at the answer.. I was working on a radio program last week when a black gay rights activist who lives in Palm Springs explained how many times he has had his plates run when a police car is behind him at a red light. He was obviously a perfectly respectable man and you could feel his sadness whilst recalling this?

Now this is not to imply that we are living in the Jim Crow South. But it does imply that we have some of the issues that BLM is protesting about right here. I am also wondering if any local elected officials will join the protest? There are no council meetings scheduled for Monday Night. Some are attending the Democratic Convention in Philadelphia but some will be at home.I bet that answer is zero.

This Wednesday, I will have lived in the Valley for 25 years. There has been much change for the better. The West Valley has become more diverse with a heavy import of LGBTQ residents. That diversity has greatly improved the landscape of the West Valley with a corresponding taking of political power, But that occurrence has not bridged the racial divide in the Valley. Monday night, a large diverse crowd at the protest would go long way to doing so.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or on Twitter at @skellynj

Tribe Parks It In Palm Springs

The announcement yesterday that the Agua Caliente Tribe is building a parking structure in downtown Palm Springs has thankfully generated little if no comment. This stands in marked contrast to the hysteria that occurred when the tribe tore down the Spa Hotel. The outcry from the modernist movement in town was such that cats from Beaumont to Blythe fled in terror.

Much of that can attributed to the fact that many of the newer residents of Palm Springs have no idea that Palm Springs sits partially on an Indian Reservation. Since a lot of the residents are retired they get active in city affairs. While that is to be commended, it would be more helpful if people would actually learn local issues. The "I have been coming to the desert for years, or I have owned a home here for years", statements irk me.In reality that makes one a tourist or a part time resident.

The city has very little control over tribal land. The billboards one sees on Dinah Shore Drive or on Gene Autry Way are on tribal lands. The city has no jurisdiction on these parcels. That is just a one example of some of the nuances in Palm Springs.

In the past few years, the relationship between the tribe and the city deteriorated. Regardless of who was at fault, it is extremely important that this not occur again. For Palm Springs to succeed, the city and tribe must be on the same page. Tribal rights must be respected. The tribe was here long before the city and will remain long after.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed @skelly

Boom Goes The Dynamite And Common Sense In Cathedral City

Well here we go again. Another July 4th in the desert. I was driving today with an non-political friend of mine in Cathedral City and she remarked, "Why are they selling fireworks in the middle of a drought?" Why indeed?

I have been fighting the battle against "safe and sane" fireworks for at least a decade. It defies common sense. In the last few years, a lot of citizens in Cathedral City have joined in the fight. To his credit, Councilman Shelly Kaplan fulfilled a campaign promise to bring it to the Council's attention last year. It failed.

The reason give for that failure wass the fact that non-profits in the city raise money selling fireworks. A few years ago, St, Louis Church used the money they raised to send kids to see the Pope!! Today's Desert Sun even chimes in with a planted article on how a local church is feeding the homeless by selling fireworks. Ex Cathedral City Councilman Chuck Vasquez is prominently featured in the story. Is this the only way to raise money?

The Desert Sun, opining on this topic last year somehow equated fireworks sales with military service!!! Yeah there will be no Pulitzer for that editorial.

The sale of fireworks in the desert, suffering through a drought of biblical proportions is absolutely insane. Anyone with an ounce of common sense can see that. It is lunacy.

The city needs to work with non-profits to ensure that they can have safe and sane fundraising!! The sale of fireworks is an action that contains no sparkle. None at all

Steve Kelly can be reached at @skellynj or at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com

RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF DOES NOT PASS SNIFF TEST ON GUNS

As the fallout continues from the shooting at the Pulse Night Club in Orlando, once again responsible Americans are asking how did Omar Mateen legally purchase the AR 15 Assault Weapon that he used in part to slaughter 49 innocent people?

As usual; the NRA and their fellow travelers are trying to block any sensible look at stopping these weapons from getting into the hands of terrorists or lunatics or both. Somehow, this all Barack Obama's fault.

As a journalist, I am strong believer in the Bill Of Rights. But as a citizen of Riverside County, I am perplexed by the fascination with firearms by Sheriff Stan Sniff Jr. A look at his official, not private Facebook page show a complete and rather unhealthy obsession with guns. It contains ads for gun shows. NRA propaganda. Sniff uses both his official position and stationary to write letters opposing any attempts at sensible gun legislation. I didn't realize all this was part of his official duties. I am pretty sure it isn't.

Now even though he is Sheriff, Mr. Sniff doesn't lose any of his rights as a citizen. But his political positions belong nowhere on official stationery. It is baffling to me why the Board of Supervisors hasn't asked him to cut this out. This isn't his first time.

In 2013 the Sheriff attacked Senator Diane Feinstein for proposing an assault weapons ban after the massacre in Newtown. Connecticut. I wrote a Valley Voice piece on the subject then. I was attacked not be Sheriff himself but his pals in the Cowboy Action Shooting group to which he belonged. These people dress up like Wyatt Earrp and Annie Oakley and fire guns. Think Zane Grey on LSD.

As part of his vocal attack on Proposition 47. Sheriff Sniff constantly brings up that the stealing of a firearm is now treated way too leniently under the statue. You know what, I agree with him. I think the law should be changed in regards to firearms. What I do not agree to is a Sheriff who is using his office to further the objectives of a rabid band of irresponsible zealots. Who may one day use legally purchased Assault Weapons against the brave men and women he commands.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting or followed on Twitter @skellynj

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Unsocially Yours In Palm Springs

Drama on social media involving Palm Springs and elected officials seems to be a recurring issue. The fact that a recent event has now hit the local press is embarrassing. I encourage all elected officials in that town to think seriously about what they post. Yes there are unfair things said on these sites. But as public figures,because you have a bruised ego, a petty disputs should never be fought out on the internet. For a few reasons:

First as a public figure, part of the price you pay for office is sometimes people act unpleasantly. Want to wear the fake construction helmet and hold a shovel while getting your picture snapped at a projec? Then be prepared to be yelled at if there are potholes. 

Secondly, No one likes a martyr or excess drama. And some of the responses I have seen on social media by public officials are more melodramatic than Days Of Our Lives. Palm Springs is a nice place. Nice people too for the most part. Think before you type.

Finally, do what I do. If I find someone is getting too personal or ridiculous I block the person. Life gets simpler. 

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasitn.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj

Mr. Sanders Comes To Cathedral City

It was a nice day here in the Valley. Not too hot for May which sometimes can be brutal. Of course political interest was sparked by the appearance of Democratic Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders (I-VT) at Big League Dreams in Cathedral City.

Without getting into the policy issues and differences among the 2 Democratic presidential candidates, I thought I would just offer some general observations.

The campaign staff and law enforcement were absolutely terrific. The event went off without a hitch and as a press corp invitee, I can tell you these people were total pros.

The organizers said they were going to get 6,000 people there. I would estimate they got between 3500 and 4000. Not bad for 3 days notice.

Lots of young people and little kids there.

Credit must be given to Councilman Greg Pettis of Cathedral City and the Oderkirk family which owns Big League Dreams for getting this rally. It was good for the city and the Valley.

The crowd was well behaved. Some foul language but not a lot. Many were college students.

Finally, I was amazed that a 74 year old could give a 50 minute speech. Like him or not, that was impressive.

On a side note, I did feel like a dinosaur when the lady handling the press asked me if I had ever covered a Presidential candidate's appearance before. I said I had and to her utter befuddlement and amusement, I told I had covered John Anderson for a few events in 1980!! She told me she had no idea who that was as she been born in 1991. Ah, youth.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com. Follow him on Twitter @skellynj

An Open Invitation Palm Springs Residents: Feel The Bern In Cathedral City

When news of Bernie Sanders impending campaign rally Wednesday in Cathedral City broke, all I could think was bravo. I am proud of my town getting such an event. And to my friends and residents of Palm Springs, I extend to you a hearty welcome and invitation to cross into the wild and exotic world of Cathedral City.

While we may lack vegan cosmopolitan drinking hipsters and the 2009 9th place runner up chef from some faux reality TV show, we have some great dining options. From Wienerschnitzel to Boys Hamburgers to Applebees and Don and Sweet Sues, you can find great food.

Despite what you may have heard at OnePS meetings, no passport is required to crossover to our town. There is no 10 foot Trump-like wall on on Vista Chino, Ramon or Highway 111. If you really want the full Cathedral City experience, may I recommend you take the line 30 bus. Many of the people who clean Palm Springs hotels and houses and  cook in your Palm Springs restaurants do so every day. A bit rough I know but what an adventure.

I believe at tomorrow's rally, there will be no red carpet. But if you want to go carpet shopping, hit Perez Road. You can even go to Trader Joe's on 111. (We now forgive Palm Springs's attempt to steal it a few years back.)

We hear that Palm Springs is 'the new Hamptons." Well then, we are the new East Hampton. The town that makes Palm Springs work. Come on over and check us out. You may have Leonardo, but we have Monty Hall!!

And yes we too have had our political scandals. We even had one of our council members wear a wire undercover in the investigation of a colleague. City Hall raid, how declasse!! Plus we sell fireworks!!

A few weeks ago in jest, the esteemed journalist Hank Plante referred to Indio as "Greater Palm Springs." In following his lead, I welcome all of "Greater Cathedral City", including our quaint suburb of Palm Springs to "Feel the Bern" tomorrow at the epicenter of the universe. Palm Springs, er Cathedral City.

Steve Kelly can bre reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or on Twitter @skellynj.

Mr. Holland's Palm Springs Opus And Other Thoughts

Well it was quite a night Wednesday at the Palm Springs City Council. I was watching the proceedings at home at first and then decided to pop on in. I know how much some members of the city council enjoy being in my presence. Well here are some of my takeaways from all the excitement.

The public comments section is torture. Half the time taken up last night was about an issue I support but  of which the council has zero jurisdiction. And zero influence.

There really needs to be better interaction between staff and council. Several times Geoff Kors politely talked about receiving information at the last minute. This has to improve.

We could all do without the segment council members commenting on what they do in the community. Although mercifully short last night, the temptation to blow their own horns is omnipresent.

After a nearly hour and half sign ordinance debate, I went home. I have sat through Palm Springs sign debates in 3 different decades now. The city always screws up. They will impose an ordinance, it will be challenged and they will lose in court. Sun will rise in the East too. So back to the computer.

I was pleasantly surprised by the 5-0 vote on changing the city attorney to an in house set up. I thought Geoff Kors and Rob Moon did a great job in framing the debate. I'm sure because of legal ramifications or legal advice, they were never going to bring up the real impetus behind the change. That of course being the questionable legal advice of Doug Holland before and after the raid on the PS City Hall in September. The fact that a hybrid system (In house attorney plus law firm for help.) is being considered means they want Holland gone. I caution readers that this change will take place slowly over probably 5 or 6 months complete with the usual "search for the best candidate" mantra taking place. I do think city council members should state for the record that they would not support bringing Mr. Holland or his firm into a hybrid set up. Not a lot of fun in Costa Mesa today as Doug Holland has to explain to his partners about the loss of a million dollar contract.

The debate over the hiring and continued employment of former DA Rod Pacheco was an interesting insight into the decision making process in Palm Springs. 3 of the people who were there when he was hired, council members Chris Mills, Ginny Foat and  city attorney Doug Holland spoke about the reason for the hire. Curiously, city manager David Ready was silent.

Basically all 3 spoke of the shock of the raid on Palm Springs. Holland said he hired Pacheco because of the former DA's contacts in law enforcement and his expertise. He took responsibility and for that he should have been let go. Ginny Foat spoke passionately about how torn she was and scared for the city. To her credit, she did acknowledge that she knew the hire would be controversial. No one addressed the form of payment to Pacheco nor was who signed off on the hire totally clear. Mr. Ready was as quiet as a church mouse.

Chris Mills, who in May opined that the thought of a raid on City Hall was laughable was on another planet last night. He talked about how much value the city had gotten from Rod Pacheco and how Pacheco had started the task force that raided Palm Springs. The latter point is bogus as a 1 minute google search proved. He was the lone vote to keep the Pacheco contract. No way he runs again in 2017.

Geoff Kors and Rob Moon focused on Pacheco's unsuitability. JR Roberts stuck to the absurdity that the only reason Pacheco was controversial was because of Warm Sands and if it it had never happened, no one would be complaining. But it did happen. And Rod Pacheco was not just hostile to the gay community.

Anyone who has done an hour's research on Pacheco knows he did a lot more odious things. He shut down county civil and juvenile courts for 2 years in the his no plea bargain reign. I repeat my assertion that no other city in the Valley including the traditionally conservative Cove Communities, (Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert and Indian Wells) would touch this guy.

My biggest takeaway from last night is that Palm Springs may and I emphasize may be in a new era. Finally.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj.

All Eyes On Ginny Foat Tomorrow Night

When the Palm Springs city council meets tomorrow night, all eyes will be on veteran council member Ginny Foat. Despite losing her bid for Mayor, she remains a formidable presence in the city. And on Wednesday night, she will decide the fate of City Attorney Doug Holland.

The council will discuss and may vote on whether or not to hire an in house attorney or continue with outside counsel. Mr. Holland works for the Orange County law firm of Woodruff, Spradlin and Smart where he serves as a director. His firm is currently contracted to the city. And while the city council could vote to change firms, it appears that option is not going to be exercised. It will be in house or no house tomorrow night.

The Desert Sun has called for an in house attorney. This being Palm Springs, no one really wants to address why this matter is being brought up. Well, I will. The main reason the city is having this discussion is because of the perception of screw ups by Mr. Holland Whether it be the bizarre hiring of possible reality-challenged former DA Rod Pacheco to advise the city on the process involving the raid on City Hall or convoluted redevelopment land sales, Doug Holland has certainly been under intense scrutiny recently. It certainly didn't help when City Manager David Ready apparently threw him under the bus in a dispute with the local newspaper.

Tomorrow night Ginny Foat could be the deciding vote  for a recommendation to go to an in house counsel. She and her holdover colleague Chris Mills, have shown great reluctance to vote to change anything they feel tarnishes the prior council's legacy. Firing Doug Holland would do just that. But keeping the situation status quo may cause more tumult in the city that desperately wants to move forward.

Right now there appears to be 2 votes in favor of going to an in house counsel. Mayor Rob Moon and Geoff Kors. I believe Chris Mills will vote no. I also believe J.R. Roberts will follow along with Ms. Foat's line of thinking. I have no idea how she will vote so this will be interesting.

Oh and as for the contract with Rod Pacheco. That is on the agenda as well. It is item 4C. You may note that the name Rod Pacheco does not appear anywhere. But the law firm name of Theodora Oringher does. That is because of the Rube Goldberg way in which Pacheco was hired and paid. All through a third party which one may reasonably assume was to mask his hire. Bizarre.

Steve Kelly can be followed on twitter at @skellynj or e mailed at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com

Your News My Views

Back by popular demand, Your News My Views:

Your News: Classic Rock Show scheduled in the fall at the Polo Grounds in Indio.

My Views: This show could be fun. God knows this is Woodstock for seniors. The line up includes many "mature acts." It is expensive so let us see how the tickets sell. For God's sake, hopefully no panties will be tossed at the stage. If the Rolling Stones play Start Me Up, it may be for a defibrillator.

Your News: Both PS Council member Ginny Foat and PS Mayor Rob Moon selected as Hillary Clinton delegates for the 2016  Democratic Convention.

My Views: Hope they sit next to each other on the trip to Philadelphia. It would a great bonding exercise. Odds of that happening, same as snow in July in Palm Springs.

Your News: Lawsuit charges discrimination and claims children barred from playing outside at apartment complexes.

My Views: As I recently posted, most of this activity took place in Palm Springs and involves lower income Hispanic residents. They have zero political clout in Palm Springs. So far, absolute crickets from the "progressive" leaders of Palm Springs. Have not seen one statement from OnePS. There has been more discussion of the Forever Marilyn Statue than these real life human beings. Is Palm Springs becoming a 1% community?

Your News: Greg Pettis and John Aguilar seek re-election to the Cathedral City council.

My Views: The status quo will remain supreme in Cathedral City. The power block in town will back these 2 100%, although Hispanic residents may be upset at Greg Pettis. He works for Jeff Stone who made some outrageous comments during the Murrrietta stand off 2 years ago.

Your News:  Riverside County spends 44 million dollars on consultants to learn how to save money.

My Views; Face palm. Why is John Benoit given a free pass on this?

Your News: Indian Wells to vote on CV Link

My Views: Surprised Larry Ellison and the big hotels haven't weighed in. One would think they would be in favor of this project. CV Link suffered from a really poor roll out. Its troubles were of its own making.

And finally, I wrote a few weeks ago I was surprised that former PSPOA union head William Hutchinson was selected to be the Palm Springs Police Public Information Officer based on his prior very public disdain for the media. Well it took all of  5 days after that blog for the Palm Springs Police Department to stop sending me releases. Not a big deal because I have other means at my disposal but pettiness thy name is Wi, ah skip it. I don't need a jaywalking ticket. But thanks for being a loyal reader

STeve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed on Twitter at @skellynj

Frank Tysen Bitter After All These Years

Almost 20 years ago, Frank Tysen had a legitimate voice in Palm Springs politics. I would often chat with him when something was happening. But in he late 90;s, things started to go off the rails. He had a big fight with Mayor Will Kleindienst about restaurants having live music till 2 in the morning and disturbing his guests. Frank was right, he was lied to about the ordinance and it's enforcement. One of the low lights of this event was the then city planning director going at night around the corner from a restaurant taking decibel measurements. At an open city council meeting he declared, "I heard sound but it wasn't noise." What the French Toast?

But even after resolution, Frank became somewhat more of a bitter character. Lawsuits threatened all the time. Palm Springs changed but Frank never did. It was almost as if he was waiting for a chance to become a consequential player again in Palm Springs and Measure J gave him that shot.

To be clear, I did not like all of Measure J. I am not going to rehash old arguments. The people voted in favor of it. It was time to move on. Frank never moved.

When you have developers and a lot of cash, money talks and all else walks. I thought the citizen involvement in the downtown redevelopment was more of a public relations ploy and a feel good thing. I thought the real battles would be in the planning area. (I was right.) Regardless, again the people had spoken.

Then Frank and his group filed their first lawsuit. They were paid 50 grand to drop it. Frank has threatened lawsuit after lawsuit and according to Michael Braun of Wessman Development, he may now have filed another.

This is just flat out wrong. A given is that there have been some mistakes in the process, of course. But it is time for the BS to stop. The people of Palm Springs have spoken on numerous occasions. Another lawsuit now will not stop downtown from getting rebuilt. But it may drive away investors and businesses who are tired of this stupidity.

In my opinion, Frank Tysen was wronged by a City Council. That was over 20 years ago. The war is over. Drop the lawsuit Frank. It is finally time to let go.

Steve Kelly can reached at kellyscorner59@gmail.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj.

Palm Springs It Will Get Darker Before The Dawn

Saturday, I had the honor of being at the Stonewall Democratic cook out. (Point of disclosure, I attended with my step-son who now interns at Democratic Party headquarters.) At this LGBT event, most people were curious about the recent drama at Palm Springs City Hall and because I have written about it, they asked about it. I enjoyed the event very much and came away with several impressions.

First of all. there is more coming out on the Rod Pacheco hire. One of the best lines about was from an unnamed wit who said, "Rod Pacheco was a unifier. Gay. straight, bi-sexual, transgender, progressive, conservative everyone is united. Pacheco is a few fries short of a Happy Meal".It was equally insane for him to be hired. A panic move and when you add in the Warm Sands hateful stand he took, I feel safe to say he is gone. Sooner rather than later.

I also see no way Doug Holland or his law firm stays. If hiring Pacheco is the best legal advice you can give, it is time to go.

As for City Manager David Ready remember all Mayor Moon is asking is for his evaluation to be moved up 2 months. Even if the Mayor wants to dismiss Mr. Ready, he needs 2 other votes. If Mr. Ready was more involved in the hiring of Mr. Pacheco than he is now stating, those votes may be easy to find.

I will admit I poked a stick into a hornet's nest the last few days on this blog but I feel that someone has to ask questions. I appreciate both the official and unofficial input.

I must say that I think the next 3 months will be crazy in Palm Springs as all things continue to unravel. But as much of a downer that may be, there is a silver lining. That being the new leadership in Palm Springs.

I have been critical in the past of Geoff Kors and Mayor Moon. It has been my experience in over 15 years of doing this, the mature politicians respect the job you do and can still be civil. Both of these men were that and more on Saturday. We had jovial, informative discussions.

I was impressed by Mayor Moon keeping the whole City Hall situation in perspective. And Mr. Kors demonstrated some outside of the box thinking on a few issues that I think will surprise and impress people when they are rolled out.

The key issue I see before the City Council is that it must continue to make a break with the past. That is hard to accomplish right now because 2 members of the current council are looking at their legacy including the last 4 years.. And that is taking up too much oxygen in the room.

Steve kelly can be reached at skelly@rbroadcasting.com aand @skellynj on twitter

Courage Talks Cronies Walk In Latest Palm Springs Drama

I was very impressed the other night watching Mayor Rob Moon keep a campaign promise about looking for more transparency in city government. Now most people would think that looking at the contract and employment of a City Manager who was in charge while City Hall was raided would be a reasonable action. Not apparently for some members of the Palm Springs City Council,

3 members, Ms. Foat, Mr. Kors and Mr. Roberts all have expressed varying degrees of indignation at Mayor Moon proposing this. Now let's cut through the nonsense and say exactly what was asked for.

David Ready, the Palm Springs City Manager, has an annual performance review in July. Mayor Moon wanted to schedule the review earlier. He did not say Mr. Ready should go. If one looks at the calendar, the review would take place in May. That would be 2 months before the currently scheduled. 2 months earlier!! Oh the heavens

Then there was this gem from councilman J.R, Roberts on a potential Ready review courtesy of the Desert Sun:

“My fear is there is great collateral damage even in making public statements the way that he did because it sends the rest of the staff a scary message, quite frankly. That they might be losing their boss, or in our case, our chief-of-staff,”

In one of the worst kept secrets in Palm Springs, Mr. Ready earlier in the year had expressed interest in maybe going to Santa Monica. Yet, I saw no signs of panic emanating from City Hall if he was to depart.

Now I like Geoff Kors personally. but he is now early in the running for the dumbest thing said in a public meeting this year by a Coachella Valley elected official. When discussing whether or not the hiring of former DA Rod Pacheco as a consultant should have disclosed.

"I was unaware that this information was not shared with the public when Mr. Pacheco was retained and believe that the hiring of legal counsel should always be disclosed unless it would somehow jeopardize the city's legal position,

How could you have been unaware? You were here in September running for office. This tells me that a bright mind like Mr. Kors is pretty oblivious to his new home area. An outcry equal to if not surpassing the current one would have been forthcoming if Pacheco's name had been released in September. A little less time at cocktail parties and a little more time hanging out at Bit Of Country may be in order for Mr. Kors. He is not a councilman from the Bay Area but one from a medium sized town in Riverside County and he should be aware of happenings in the last 10 years here both in Palm Springs and the County.

The writing is on the wall for both David Ready and City Attorney Doug Holland. And I applaud Mayor Rob Moon for picking up the pen.


Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or on Twitter @skellynj

The Good The Bad The Ugly In The Rod Pacheco Debacle In Palm Springs

As the gentle breezes of the evening made their way into Palm Springs last night, little coud one imagine the a hurricane force wind was about to roar out of the Palm Springs Council Chambers, Mayor Rob Moon has called for a performance review of City Manager David Ready, a look at whether or not to ditch City Attorney's Doug Holland's law firm and also take a gander at the consulting contract secured by former Riverside DA Rod Pacheco.

                                                            The Good             

3 people, Roger Tansey, Robert Julian Stone and Barbara Beaty were eloquent and spot on discussing the odious hiring of Pacheco as a consultant after the September 2016 raid by a joint task force at Palm Springs Cit Hall. Now a lot of attention was paid to Pacheco's role in the notorious Warm Sands sex sting years ago. Even I harped on that in yesterday's blog. While that in itself is dreadful, as someone pointed out all of Pacheco's tenure as DA was awful. 

Mayor Rob Moon was forceful and courteous demanding a closed session meeting regarding. Ready, Holland and Pacheco. He also caught Ginny Foat off guard as she was "perplexed" by the call for a special meeting. And wisely ignored her.

The Desert Sun ran a strong editorial that has called for a similar review.

                                                          The Bad

The whole "Dog ate me homework" explanation of why Pacheco was hired was convoluted. Doug Holland had to know this guy was radioactive. The intricacies of how he was and is still being compensated scream out to the heavens that Palm Springs was trying to hide his employment

Newcomer J.R Roberts did himself no favors when he called the fight over Pacheco, "Blown out of proportion." Not the most brilliant thing uttered in the illustrious chamber..

                                                            The Ugly

Council member Ginny Foat and her explanation of  Pacheco hiring was self-serving at least and responsibility shirking at best. In her melodramatic speech, she even said the janitorial staff was depressed when City Hall was raided? It is possible because I was depressed listening to her. It is fairly obvious she still can not accept her election loss to Rob Moon last fall. Ms. Foat can see the "legacy" of the prior council becoming not one of progress but one of crony capitalism marred by bureaucratic arrogance and incompetence.  

   
All in all the star of the night was Mayor Moon who kept his eye on the prize and would not be deterred. It is going to get interesting around here.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj

                                                 

Will The Gay Community In Palm Springs Demand Doug Holland Get Fired Over Rod Pacceco

In an eye-opening article, the Desert Sun's Barrett Newkirk disclosed that following the FBI raid last September, the city hired former Riverside County DA Rod Pacheco to help with explaining to city officials, how to deal with the joint federal-county task force. It was recommended by city attorney Doug Holland. Obviously, Holland was in a panic mode when he brought up this idea. And since it is Palm Springs, and city officials have a need to be clever, it was done in private and Pacheco's law firm was paid and his name was kept out of it. Not a huge sum under 20 grand but still crazy.

Pacheco, the Zika virus of ex-DA's, is largely known for a first and only term that was marred by behavior that was eccentric and vicious. Some of the low lights included:

Trying to set up his own SWAT Team

Losing 500 grand in a lawsuit to a former prosecutor of the year who was moved 3 times in 20 months for not supporting him in an election.

Refusing to plea bargain cases which basically closed down Riverside County courts. Judges had to be brought in at great expense to clean up the mess.

Travelling around to news conferences with his own podium and spokesman Michael Jeandron at the ready. Jeandron is the son former PSPD Chief and failed political candidate Gary Jeandron.

Having a jury trial for a man charged with vandalism after cutting a cactus in Corona.

Spending a couple hundred grand tinting windows in his office building.

Wanting to void plea deals for about 80 kids who were caught in an underage drinking sting at Coachella Fest. Yeah, I know none of us ever did that. The judge who did the pleas thought he was nuts and an Appeals Court slapped this nonsense down but not before thousands of dollars was spent.

And finally, after the disastrous Warm Sands sex sting, Pacheco wanted the men who were arrested to plead guilty and become registered sex offenders!!! What a mess!!

The gay community was in an uproar about this event and rightfully so. The sting cost the Palm Springs Police Chief his job. The LBGT community came together and now does numerous outreach with the police.

By hiring Pacheco, the city has slapped members of that community in the face. Now to be clear, the new mayor and council people did not vote on this contract. But they can vote to end it. And they really may want re-think Doug Holland's tenure as well. Decisions made in panic lead to trouble. 

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com and on Twitter @skellynj on Twitter

Palm Springs PD Picks Media Critic To Deal With The Media

Over the last few weeks. I have received several e mails from the Public Information Officer (PIO) of the Palm Springs Police Department. The PSPD has an officer who deals with local media in helping to disseminate information involving public safety incidents. These are helpful and informative. But imagine my surprise when I noticed the name of the new PIO. It is none other than Sergeant William Hutchinson, the former head of the Palm Springs Police Officers Association.

Prior to getting this role, Mr. Hutchinson had a rather colorful history with the local media he is now collaborating with. This history includes:

A cringe worthy appearance on the television show COPS, It is too painful for me to watch again, but it is on YouTube for the not so faint of heart.

A ridiculous attack on Desert Sun reporter Brett Kelman.

Refusing to cooperate with the Desert Sun in their investigation surrounding the 2012 shooting death of  AJ DeVillena a US Marine.

Participating in a 2012 "News Conference" attacking Raul Ruiz.. It was a desperate attempt to help Mary Bono Mack in her failed re-election bid.

Spearheading a now defunct lawsuit against the City of Palm Springs  to block it from releasing the names of police officers involved in on duty shootings. The Desert Sun had made a request.

In the interest of full disclosure, I blocked him from my personal social media accounts after a number of scurrilous posts. It just became a waste of time.

In his new role, I wish Sergeant Hutchinson well. I am a firm believer in redemption and second chances. Perhaps he will gain a new found respect for the job done by the local media and the vital role it plays in our society.

If however, he doesn't change his prior negative attitude, it is going to get very frosty in Palm Springs, very fast.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed on Twiitervat @skellynj.

Steve Pougnet Story Yet To Hit Rock Bottom

In a story earlier this week, the Desert Sun and reporter Kia Farhang continued the investigation of former Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and his ties to developers. A big deal was made of a check written to the city for the Hacienda Beach and Cantina Club from an account by Union Abbey. Union Abbey was of course the company run by Rich Meaney who also ran the Hacienda Beach and Cantina Club.  Meaney also paid Mayor Steve Pougnet over 200k to "consult". He is also at the heart of the FBI raid in Palm Springs. Not to mention his Hacienda Beach and Cantina Club has defaulted on 186 grand it has to pay back the city for violating terms of a city incentive program. Plus Union Abbey had no license to do business in California since 2009 because of a tax dispute.

While the $64 dollar check was small potatoes, the article itself brought up some interesting points. It may have been unfair to ask city manager David Ready if he was familiar with the check but seeing "The best city manager in the country, (Steve Pougnet's words)" channel Sergeant Schultz of Hogan's Heroes was classic. The "smartest" guy in the room did really not have any answers.

The following also jumped out at me as it describes yet another "consulting" contract for Pougnet from developer Stephen Mitchell.

Mitchell and his wife Nancy paid Pougnet as much as $100,000 for consulting work in 2012. Stephen also wrote Pougnet an $8,000 check for his 2007 mayoral campaign.

Like the Meaneys, Stephen Mitchell has declined to say how much he paid Pougnet and what work the former mayor did for his company.

"That's between him and me," Mitchell told a Desert Sun reporter in September. "I just hope everything turns out OK."

So the mayor got yet another 100 grand from a developer? Now I love the fact Mitchell won't disclose what the mayor did. I hope members of the corruption task force read this interview. If I were on it, I would be at Mitchell's office in about 5 minutes.

Questions still abound though. And among them for me are these:

What did Steve Pougnet do for at least the 300 grand he received over 3 years from now 2 different developers?

Was Rich Meaney, who appears to not have the funds to buy a postage stamp let alone 200 grand, merely a conduit, paying Pougnet, for a 3rd party? If so, who? And why?

Why didn't the city require that recipients of the city grant fund program like the Hacienda Beach and Cantina Club purchase a surety bond to cover the grant? It would have guaranteed the city repayment of the money.

How could David Ready and city attorney Doug Holland have no inkling or sense that something was wrong?

Oh well, more details and maybe indictments may emerge shortly.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed on twitter @skellynj.

Visit Palm Springs Gets What It Paid For

I wonder this morning what the tourism and modernism people in Palm Springs are thinking after they read this article in the Guardian. Penned by architecture critic Oliver Wainwright, it is about his recent visit to Palm Springs.

After talking about Bob Hope's house. he moves on to the Alexander homes in Palm Springs.  And this next paragraph certainly caught my eye.

“The architects had a sincere and modest agenda conceiving a remote suburban paradise for the lower middle class when they were built,” says architectural historian Nicholas Olsberg. “Now they are trophy homes for mostly gay Los Angelenos. People redo the kitchen, neutralise anything quirky, put in a few Bertoia chairs, rent them out and use them for a couple of weekend parties every year"

Gay Trophy homes? Pretty classic.

What makes the article even more entertaining is that Mr. Wainwright's travel from the UK for this piece was paid for by Visit Palm Springs, the local tourism bureau. While I have never liked the practice, it is common in the travel press and as long as it is properly disclosed, it meets accepted journalistic standards. Plus after these closing paragraphs, I doubt they will invite Mr. Wainwright back.

That so much period architecture remains intact here is something of an accident. The surrounding desert land was always so cheap that, when the modernist bungalows became unfashionable, developers simply built on plots further out. But such is the current fetish for 50s nostalgia, there seems to be little thought given to what’s coming next. A gargantuan mall and hotel complex is currently rising out of the ground in the centre of the city, in the form of a crass out-of-town box, while much recent development follows the clichéd Jetsons-meets-Flintstones desert vernacular, with stick-on boulders and angular canopies.

Still, perhaps it’s a fittingly lobotomised aesthetic for this strangely lifeless town, a place where little happens but stewing in the heat by the pool, cosseted from reality by a pristine blanket of midcentury design. As Dunning puts it: “It’s where LA comes to get over a hangover. And often doesn’t go back.

The man certainly knows how to turn a phrase. Lobotomised aesthetic!! Indeed! It is certainly a testimony to his integrity that Wainwright writes what will outrage some in Palm Springs. The official reaction to this will be of course to ignore it. Except for me, no one will link to it. Why it may not even merit a thumbs down from the Desert Sun's editorial page.

I am probably the only one brave, er stupid, er crazy enough to bring this to your attention. While I personally don't agree with all the author's conclusions, it is nice to see a different point of view once in a while.

Steve Kelly can be reached at skelly@rrbroadcasting.com or followed on Twitter @skellynj