Mark Talkington

The next steps involve conducting detailed traffic impact studies for options on both the north side and south side of the airport and bringing the information to the City Council.

"We're really primed to take Palm Springs to the next level, where it's not just individual tourist events or community offerings, but it's a global arts hub," said Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein.

The Casa Verona project, located at the east terminus of Verona Road adjacent to land containing the former Palm Springs Country Club, was originally approved in September 2022.

Renowned landscape architect Garret Eckbo design used mostly water efficient native desert plant species. Over time, most of the historic landscape was converted to turf – requiring increasingly more water.

The commission's decision to delay the funding vote sparked a broader discussion about the precedent it might set for future gifted artworks.

A review of license appeal cases over the past two years revealed that only 0.05% of cases were overturned. That low rate prompted questions about how well the community understands the ordinances.

Members of the Palm Springs City Council working on the issue propose shifting Human Rights Commission to human services focus; process expected to extend into 2025.

The council's decision allows Oswit Land Trust to proceed with restoration plans on land it owns, while ongoing disputes over leased parcels remain unresolved.

The changes under review would prohibit smoking in outdoor dining areas, parks, and common areas of multi-unit residences. They would apply to both traditional tobacco products and electronic smoking devices.

The commission is scheduled to reconvene on Nov. 17 to discuss which projects may need additional information from applicants. Presentations from selected applicants are tentatively planned for the Dec. 19 meeting.