Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Desert Hot Springs public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in environment
Encampment cleanup and habitat restoration in conservation areas
The Coachella Valley Conservation Commission reported it removed 260,000 pounds of debris and cleared nine encampments with zero law enforcement action, and is now receiving roughly $1 million in grants to decommission illegal off-road roads, install fencing and restore sensitive mesquite dunes.
Conservation fencing grant for Desert Hot Springs
A nearly $1.02 million grant package will fund over three miles of fencing and trail restoration on conservation land here, targeting illegal encampments and off-road damage.
Trash, illegal dumping, and property blight
Residents volunteering to clean homeless encampment debris near schools asked why the burden falls on citizens paying their own dump fees, and urged the city to step up.
Groundwater Protection from Cannabis Waste
Opponents questioned which water agency serves the site and how much water construction and operations would consume, amid drought worries.
Wildlife crossings on State Route 62
The Mojave Desert Land Trust pitched two wildlife overpasses on the Morongo Grade — a $5.4 million grant is secured and the city may be asked to pass a resolution of support.
Household hazardous waste disposal gaps
A resident flagged that auto parts stores in town often can't accept used oil or antifreeze, leaving residents without easy local disposal options. The mayor said staff will look at options with Desert Valley Disposal and the county.