Home Care In Palm Springs, CA

The denial means a Grit Development company must pay prevailing wages to construction workers on the project that transformed the former Desert Fashion Plaza site into a mixed-use development.

The California Supreme Court declined Wednesday to review a dispute over a $175 million Palm Springs redevelopment project, ending the developer’s challenge to state prevailing wage requirements and letting stand a lower court ruling against the company.

The denial means Palm Springs Promenade LLC must pay prevailing wages to construction workers on the project that transformed the former Desert Fashion Plaza site into a mixed-use development with residential units, restaurants, retail space and a luxury hotel. The developer now faces potential liability for back pay to workers.

The case centered on whether the project qualified as a “municipal affair” under California’s home rule doctrine, which allows charter cities to exempt themselves from certain state laws, including prevailing wage requirements, on local projects.

Palm Springs Promenade, created by Grit Development specifically for this project, contributed $143 million in private funds while the city provided about $51.36 million. The city’s contribution included funds to acquire public assets, street construction, parking improvements and change orders.

Michael Braun, president of Grit Development, could not be reached for comment Thursday regarding what may the next move might be for his company or the project.

In court documents, the developer argued the city maintained control over public funds through the Project Financing Agreement, making the project exempt from state wage laws. But the Fourth District Court of Appeal disagreed in June, finding that Palm Springs Promenade “retained substantial control over how its construction monies were spent” because an independent fund control agent, not the city, reviewed billing documents and disbursement requests.

The legal dispute began in 2017 when the Center for Contract Compliance requested the Department of Industrial Relations determine whether the project was subject to prevailing wage requirements. The department ruled in August 2018 that such wages were required, leading to court challenges that both Palm Springs Promenade and the city supported.

The League of California Cities had filed a letter supporting the developer’s petition for review, arguing the appellate decision threatened charter cities’ constitutional authority over public spending in public-private partnerships.

The decision establishes that private developers cannot claim charter city exemptions from state wage laws when they control most construction aspects, even with substantial city funding. The ruling could affect how cities structure future public-private partnerships in redevelopment projects.

Desert Water Agency (DWA) has adopted a new ordinance banning potable water irrigation on non-functional turf to meet state conservation mandates, but property management companies warn the rules could create financial hardships for HOAs unprepared for costly landscape conversions.

Ordinance number 80, adopted in early August in response to California Assembly Bill 1572, specifically targets grass areas that are not regularly used for recreational or community events, said Clark Elliott, conservation manager with DWA, during an Organized Neighborhoods of Palm Springs (ONE-PS) meeting earlier this month.

The bill, signed into law in October 2023, prohibits the use of water used primarily for drinking to irrigate non-functional turf on certain properties. DWA adopted the ordinance as part of broader state regulations requiring the 40% reduction by 2040 under the “Making Conservation a California Way of Life” legislation.

“The simple definition of non functional turf is turf that’s not regularly used for recreational or community events,” Elliott said. “When we have grass out there, we want people to actually be using it.”

The regulation specifically excludes single family homes and areas using recycled water, meaning individual homeowners will not be affected by the new restrictions. Non-functional turf includes small strips of grass in HOA common areas, medians and other decorative grass spaces where people do not regularly gather or play, including those outside their gates.

Functional turf that remains protected includes parks and golf courses, which typically use recycled water, Elliott said. These areas must have a clear, dedicated function, be used regularly, provide recreational benefit to the community and have a history of programmed events.

However, property managers question whether the distinction between functional and non-functional turf is clear enough for practical implementation. Bobbie Gaffney of The Gaffney Group, which manages 30 properties in the desert including several in Palm Springs, said the definition creates uncertainty for HOAs trying to comply.

“Almost all greenbelt area other than that that’s outside of gates or has a steep incline that couldn’t be used for recreation, could be considered recreational,” Gaffney said. “Kids can go out and throw a ball back and forth.”

The ordinance establishes staggered compliance deadlines based on property type. Government properties must comply by Jan. 1, 2027, while commercial, industrial and institutional businesses have until Jan. 1, 2028. HOA common areas and mobile home parks have the longest timeline, with a Jan. 1, 2029 deadline.

Property managers warn the timeline may not provide enough time for HOAs to address the financial burden of landscape conversion. Gaffney said conversion costs run $7 to $9 per square foot, plus expensive design plans, and most associations have not budgeted for such expenses.

“Conversion now is expensive,” Gaffney said. “Associations haven’t budgeted for that. They just don’t have that kind of money.”

Property owners must self-certify their grass usage six months before their compliance deadline through a form that will be available on the agency’s website. For HOAs, the self-certification deadline is June 30, 2028.

Elliott warned that penalties for violations can reach $2,000 per verified violation, though DWA prefers to work with property owners making good faith efforts to comply.

“I don’t want to fine anyone $2,000,” Elliott said. “We are really trying to say, if you are making a good faith effort to comply, we will work with you within reason.”

The ordinance’s complete ban on potable water irrigation creates additional challenges for HOAs, preventing even minimal watering to maintain dormant grass or preserve irrigation systems. Gaffney said HOAs typically use about one minute of daily watering to keep “golden” grass from completely dying and to prevent irrigation valves from drying out.

“If it can’t be watered, that means we can’t even just let it go golden,” Gaffney said. “Which means either we’re going to have dirt all around our outside perimeter and entry to our properties, or it’s going to have to be converted.”

Both Elliott and Gaffney agree that communication and education are key to successful implementation.

While DWA typically faces challenges reaching property managers and HOA boards, which often control decisions about common area landscaping, Elliott said Palm Springs area managers have generally been more cooperative than those in other regions.

“We in this area actually have more success with property managers than most areas, but there are some resistant ones, definitely,” Elliott said during the meeting. “So we are working to hopefully help more outreach with specifically that group.”

The agency plans “H2 over HOAs” presentations to educate community leaders about water-related requirements affecting their properties. Elliott said these meetings address all water regulations, not just the turf ordinance, to help HOA board members understand their obligations.

Gaffney said her HOAs “have always been willing to comply with whatever mandates or restrictions were in place,” but expressed concern that most affected areas would be frontage spaces outside community gates, which could leave dirt patches visible along city streets if HOAs cannot afford conversions.

“I don’t think Palm Springs wants all of their frontage in the city to be dirt,” Gaffney said.

Recognizing these financial challenges, Elliott emphasized that DWA prefers collaboration over enforcement. The agency has found that most property managers in the Palm Springs area are willing to work with water conservation requirements, even when facing implementation difficulties.

“We are really trying to say, if you are making a good faith effort to comply, we will work with you within reason,” Elliott said, noting that DWA will take cooperative efforts into consideration when evaluating potential violations.

(This story was updated with new information.)

The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for the Indian Canyon area of Palm Springs due to excessive rainfall expected this afternoon.

Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas could occur, along with rises in small streams and arroyos that are normally dry, the agency said.

The flood advisory is in effect until 4:32 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 26.

The advisory means flooding is occurring or is imminent.

"It is important to know where you are relative to streams, rivers, or creeks which can become killers in heavy rains," NWS said. "Campers and hikers should avoid streams or creeks."

Heavy rains drench Coachella Valley on Monday

Heavy rain, winds approaching 50 mph and half-inch-sized hail were seen Monday afternoon in parts of the Coachella Valley and the surrounding San Jacinto Mountains as strong thunderstorms moved through the area. The storms had passed before sunset Monday evening.

Palm Springs received nearly half an inch of rain, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, while Coachella received 0.20 inches.

Rain did not fall evenly across the valley, even in areas that are close together. While the NOAA recorded 0.44 inches of rain at Palm Springs International Airport, one weather station Cathedral City received only 0.04 and another in Cathedral Canyon got 0.29 inches. Desert Hot Springs received no rain, according to the federal agency.

The highest rainfall recorded by the National Weather Service's San Diego office occurred south of Palm Springs, at the Palm Canyon Creek station, which is at 700 feet of elevation and was inundated with 1.42 inches of rain. Mount San Jacinto was also subjected to high totals, receiving 1.03 inches. That station is at 8,616 feet.

Monday's rainfall more than doubled the monthly average in the Palm Springs area. NWS says the region typically gets an average of 0.14 inches in August.

The agency also recorded 3,886 lightning strikes across Riverside County, 178 of which were "cloud-to-ground" strikes.

The NWS issued a flash flood warning at 3 p.m. for most of the western side of the Coachella Valley, as well as Whitewater and Highway 74 between Anza and Palm Desert, warning of "life-threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses."

Powerful storm begins

The weather service first reported tracking a storm over Mt. San Jacinto at 2 p.m. The storm system then began to move eastward into the Coachella Valley.

“Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects,” the weather service said as the storm started into the valley. “Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”

The weather service advised people to seek shelter inside during the storms. Much of the Coachella Valley was affected, along with Whitewater, Sky Valley and other nearby areas.

The weather service said up to an inch of rain had been recorded in some areas by 2:30 p.m. and warned people to move indoors because of lightning strikes.

"In hilly terrain there are hundreds of low water crossings which are potentially dangerous in heavy rain," the weather service added. "Do not attempt to cross flooded roads."

The weather also brought the temperature down dramatically. As of 3:30 p.m. Monday, the National Weather Service showed the temperature as 71 degrees at Palm Springs International Airport, on a day with predicted highs of just over 100 degrees. After the storm cleared, temperatures rose into the low 80s by the evening.

The stormy weather in Palm Springs could continue for another day, as there’s a 40% chance of precipitation in Palm Springs on Monday night and a 60% chance during the day Tuesday, according to the weather service. The chances drop starting Tuesday night.

The weather is expected to be mostly sunny with highs in the low 100s starting Thursday through the weekend.

Storm causes road closures and delays

Cathedral City announced several street or late closures Monday due to the rainstorm.

Dinah Shore Drive was closed in both directions between Cathedral Canyon and Via De Anza, but later reopened. Two southbound lanes were closed on Date Palm Drive at Los Gatos, leaving only one lane open.

"Our crews are working hard and will remain on site until water recedes and roads can safely reopen," the city shared on social media.

A tree was also reported down at Ocotillo Park, and a crew from Desert Recreation District was responding.

La Quinta paving work on Highway 111 delayed to Tuesday

Due to Monday's inclement weather, work on the Highway 111 Pavement Rehab Improvement Project between Washington Street and Jefferson Street in La Quinta was postponed until Tuesday.

The westbound lanes will remain closed, with paving rescheduled from 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 26, through 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 27. The reopening is now set for Thursday, Aug. 28.

All eastbound lanes and driveways along Highway 111 between Washington Street are now open.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway closed for the remainder of Monday

At 3:30 p.m., the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway suspended operations for the remainder of the day due to heavy rainfall. The Tram Cam, which shows a live feed on the tramway's website, recorded an accumulation of 2.56 inches of rain on Monday.

East valley power outages, flood warning

An unplanned power outage affected the unincorporated community of North Shore, near Mecca and the Salton Sea, beginning around 3:34 p.m. on Monday.

According to IID's website, about 1,109 customers were without power at one point. But as of Monday evening, the outage was no longer listed on IID's website.

IID advises customers experiencing outages to call 760-335-3640 or 1-800-303-7756.

As the storm continued heading east, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning at 4:42 p.m. on Monday for the eastern Coachella Valley — including Coachella, Thermal and Mecca — in effect until about 5:41 p.m., warning of "minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas" as well as "water over roadways."

At the time the warning was issued, local law enforcement reported heavy rain from thunderstorms in the area. Minor flooding was already occurring, with .25 to .5 inches of rainfall recorded.

The weather service said an additional .25 inches of rain was expected, which could result in minor flooding.

Flooding prompts warnings at Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park reported that "severe monsoonal storms" hit the park Monday, with flash flooding reported both inside the park and along its boundary — especially near the north entrance and into Twentynine Palms.

"Do not attempt to drive through moving water on roadways," the park advised on its website. "Avoid unnecessary travel."

Between one and two inches of rain had been recorded, with a warning of "life-threatening flash flooding" of creeks and streams, as well as in urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

"Flooding is occurring or is imminent. It is important to know where you are relative to streams, rivers, or creeks which can become killers in heavy rains. Campers and hikers should avoid streams or creeks," the National Weather Service's Phoenix office said.

The west entrance of Joshua Tree National Park on Park Boulevard, the park's busiest entry point, was already scheduled to close to all vehicle traffic from Monday, Aug. 25, through 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29. The closure allows the park service to do pavement work as it prepares to open a new entrance station farther into the park with more entry kiosks, as a way of trying to prevent traffic backups.

Published on September 5, 2025

Palm Springs, California, is renowned for its warm desert climate, mid-century modern architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. But in recent years, the city has become just as celebrated for its open, inclusive, and welcoming atmosphere. This year, the destination is elevating its image with the launch of the “You Be You” campaign, a dynamic initiative designed to encourage visitors to express their true selves without hesitation.

Palm Springs isn’t just a location—it’s a mindset. Known for its rich history of artistic expression, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, and wide-reaching cultural appeal, the city has long been a sanctuary for those seeking to escape the pressures of daily life and simply be themselves. The “You Be You” campaign amplifies this message by inviting visitors to embrace their authentic selves, whether they’re solo travelers, couples, or families.

From the swaying palms and star-studded skies to the striking desert mountains that create a breathtaking backdrop, Palm Springs offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. With a thriving cultural scene, luxury accommodations, and legendary events, it’s the ideal place to unwind and celebrate individuality. Whether you’re exploring its vintage-inspired glamour or immersing yourself in its thriving arts scene, Palm Springs provides a refreshing environment where everyone feels at home.

Campaign Focus: Celebrating Individuality

Palm Springs has long stood as a beacon of freedom, creativity, and acceptance. With the launch of the “You Be You” campaign, the city is reaffirming its reputation as a sanctuary for self-expression. The initiative aims to highlight the city’s longstanding legacy of inclusivity, artistic freedom, and personal expression. The campaign is also a call to action for those seeking a vacation where they can truly be themselves, surrounded by like-minded individuals and a community that celebrates diversity.

The heart of Palm Springs beats in its diversity, where each visitor can feel a sense of belonging. The city offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, historical exploration, and modern luxury. Visitors can wander through mid-century modern homes, explore the vast and scenic desert, or simply relax by the poolside, basking in the sun as the mountains frame the horizon.

For those looking for a cultural touchstone, Palm Springs offers an array of museums, art galleries, and music festivals. The city has become synonymous with artistic creativity, housing both established artists and emerging talents. From visual art to music, Palm Springs provides a platform for expression across a wide variety of forms. This campaign reaffirms that there’s no need to fit a mold in Palm Springs—everyone is encouraged to embrace their true identity.

What Visitors Can Expect from the Campaign

The “You Be You” campaign encourages visitors to experience Palm Springs in their own unique way. Whether they are drawn to the desert’s natural beauty, the mid-century architectural style, or the eclectic dining and shopping scenes, there’s something for everyone. Key elements of the campaign include:

Palm Springs: A Destination for All Seasons

Palm Springs is more than just a summer getaway—it’s a year-round destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you visit during the warm summer months or the cooler winter season, the city’s charm remains constant. The “You Be You” campaign shines a light on the freedom Palm Springs offers throughout the year, making it the ideal destination for those seeking a space to express their individuality while enjoying the best of desert living.

Why Palm Springs?

The allure of Palm Springs is undeniable, and it’s easy to see why travelers are flocking to this desert oasis. The city’s rich history, combined with its modern appeal, creates a perfect harmony for those seeking relaxation, culture, and adventure. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, exploring mid-century modern treasures, or diving into the cultural offerings, Palm Springs provides an exceptional backdrop for visitors to recharge and reconnect with themselves. The “You Be You” campaign enhances this by offering a clear message: Palm Springs is a place where everyone is free to be their authentic self.

Key Features of Palm Springs’ “You Be You” Campaign:

Conclusion

Palm Springs’ new “You Be You” campaign is more than just a promotional initiative; it’s an invitation for travelers to connect with their true selves in one of the most open, accepting, and beautiful destinations in the world. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or a quiet retreat, Palm Springs offers the perfect environment for self-expression. It is a place where individuality is not only accepted but celebrated, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to break free from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

By embracing the essence of Palm Springs’ inclusive and vibrant spirit, the “You Be You” campaign is positioning the city as the ultimate destination for travelers seeking authenticity, joy, and self-expression. Whether it’s lounging by a luxurious pool or exploring the vast desert landscapes, Palm Springs offers endless opportunities to live and travel unapologetically, creating an experience unlike any other.

Happy Tuesday, where we hope you’re dry and we offer you a heads up about traffic: A portion of Ramon Road is closed today — from the west side of Belardo Road to the west side of Palm Canyon Drive — as crews remove and replace the existing asphalt concrete, following yesterday’s utility work. Tomorrow brings another closure for the eastern section — from Palm Canyon Drive to Indian Canyon Drive — then utility adjustments Thursday before nighttime striping work begins Friday and continues through Sept. 12. Need to register your thoughts? Contact Matich Corp. at 909-228-1659 or the city’s project hotline at 760-846-5477.

LEADING OFF

Community celebrates as city opens temporary library at Rimrock Plaza

Palm Springs opened its temporary main library location Monday morning at Rimrock Plaza with regular patrons waiting at the doors and community supporters bearing celebratory gifts. The move allows library services to continue while the main branch undergoes renovations expected to last at least 18 months.

Driving the news: The city’s main library off Sunrise Way closed for renovations, forcing staff to relocate operations to a 6,000-square-foot space at 4721 East Palm Canyon Dr.

By the numbers: The temporary location houses 15,000 items carefully selected from the city’s total collection of 90,000 items, with the remainder stored in a warehouse on city property.

What’s available: All library services continue at the new location, including computer and Wi-Fi access, printing, passport services, the Friends of the Palm Springs Library bookstore, and programming for children, teens and adults.

Community response: Residents showed strong support on opening day, with former board members bringing flowers and a regular visitor presenting a two-layer cake shaped like books with “Next Chapter” written in frosting.Looking ahead: Library Director Jeannie Kays said the positive response to the South Palm Springs location has her thinking about future expansion possibilities, including potential north and south branches alongside the renovated main library.

Read our complete story

BRIEFLY

????? Storm brings flash flood warning to Palm Springs

A storm system triggered a flash flood warning in Palm Springs and surrounding areas Monday, with wind gusts reaching 54 mph and temperatures dropping 31 degrees.

TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

10 a.m. | Palm Springs Convention CenterPSP and its partners are hiring for about 200 open positions across a wide range of roles ahead of the Coachella Valley’s busy tourism season.

12 p.m. | Hair of the DogThe Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce will hold its August Leads Lunch. No RSVP needed.

2:30 p.m. | The CenterThis low-impact fitness class led by ACE Certified Instructor Jase offers gentle choreography, strength work, and balance training to support your body & mind. All at your own pace!

6 p.m. | James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity CenterJoin staff from the city’s Parks and Recreation Department in an engaging discussion and review the conceptual designs for the new playground at Desert Highland Park.

6 p.m. | PSUSD HeadquartersThe Board of Education meetings tonight; check out the agenda .

SAVE THE DATE

AND FINALLY …

???? Each week, The Post partners with a local animal shelter to feature one or more of the many animal companions ready for a new home in our community.

Today, we invite you to meet this big-eyed beauty, Blondie, an 11-month-old FIV+ Tabby-Siamese mix cat available for adoption at the Frisky Business Cat Cafe.

If you’re interested: You can visit Frisky Business at Rimrock Plaza (also where Von’s is located) at 4781 E. Palm Canyon Dr., Suite F. Look for the cafe’s current hours .

But wait: Don’t want to adopt but still enjoy cats? You can book a time to hang out in the cat lounge by .