Feb. 14 Daily Briefing: Commission controversy, police look into trail troubles, and more

Happy Valentine’s Day to all who celebrate! Are you expressing affection with metallic balloons today? Your power company would like a word. Last year, these balloons caused over 800,000 power outages and sparked wildfires by hitting power lines in SCE’s service area. What does this have to do with Valentine’s Day? That’s when issues with the balloons typically begin to spike. So, if you want to show that your love has taken flight, we’d urge you to consider offering chocolates, flowers, and cards, especially with a statewide ban on electrically conductive balloons looming in 2031.

🎶 Setting the mood:  “L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole

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LEADING OFF

Commission chair’s alleged behind-the-scenes decision sparks controversy, possibly violated Brown Act

A city commission chair’s reported efforts to alter a unanimously approved decision behind closed doors has sparked controversy and may have violated meetings rules.

Driving the news: The city’s Human Rights Commission (HRC) handed out its annual Community Service Awards Monday evening. However, the awards presented did not reflect those that were approved by the Commission on Jan. 8.

Details: The awards approved on Jan. 8 were supposed to be kept secret until a city press release could be issued. However, the names were shared on social media before the press release was issued, setting off a scramble after some community members learned about one of the awardees and reportedly approached HRC Chairman Hugo Loyola with complaints.

Behind the scenes: The Post has learned that after receiving the complaints, Loyola allegedly asked the city to delay releasing the list of honorees, writing, “I’m gathering the evidence. We might have to rescind a nomination.” 

• Eventually, sources said Loyola negotiated privately with those who brought the complaints and some in city government, hoping to reach a compromise. 
  
  
• In the end, the compromise was reportedly reached, and the awards presented Monday evening were not those that were approved by the full commission.

At issue: The fact Loyola and at least one other HRC commissioner may have attempted to handle the matter in private instead of immediately seeking input from city officials and bringing the matter to the entire commission for a vote has been the source of a scramble at City Hall.

• Because none of the discussions and the decisions that followed occurred in an open public meeting or were subject to a vote, Loyola’s actions may violate The Brown Act, which governs how the HRC must conduct its business.

Previous complaints: Controversy involving the Human Rights Commission is not new. In 2022, a group of residents – Friends of Frank Bogert (FFB) – sued the city over a decision to remove a statue of former Mayor Frank Bogert from in front of City Hall.

• At the time, the group claimed a report considered by the HRC – which was chaired by current Mayor Pro Tem Ron deHarte – was riddled with false information impugning Bogert and that some of it was plagiarized. 
  
  
• The group’s lawsuit did not advance, but they continue to request that the HRC correct or retract the report, to no avail.

Click here to read the complete story.

BRIEFLY

🎭 Historic Plaza Theatre management partnership formed

The Palm Springs Plaza Theatre Foundation has partnered with Oak View Group (OVG) to manage the historic Plaza Theatre, they said to ensure high-quality programming and sponsorship once renovations are completed in Fall 2025.

• The partnership sees OVG, which manages a portfolio of sports and entertainment venues worldwide, including Acrisure Arena, in charge of daily operations, talent acquisition, and sponsorship opportunities starting in March.
  
  
• Palm Springs City Manager Scott Stiles, heralded the agreement as a major economic boon, set to enhance downtown Palm Springs and draw premier cultural events to the area. In December, the city approved a $26 million construction contract for the project.
  
  
• Bottom line: In a recent development, Kevin J. Corcoran, vice president of the Plaza Theatre Foundation, noted OVG’s previous $1 million donation and decision to waive management fees, showcasing their ongoing support for the theater’s success.

🚓 Police investigating reports of lewd conduct near trail

The Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) is asking for help as it works to address numerous complaints of lewd conduct near the Bud Furer Equestrian trail off South El Cielo Road.

• Police said via social media on Tuesday they are attempting to address the inappropriate behavior that is disrupting the enjoyment of the public space for residents and visitors.
  
• The trail is a popular spot for recreational, tourism, and family activities, and the department said it’s committed to preserving the area for all to enjoy. 
  
  
  
• Bottom line: Members of the public are encouraged to report any instances of lewd behavior they may witness. The department’s non-emergency line 760-327-1441.

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Walk of Stars dedication for Jacques Caussin
3 p.m. | Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center
The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce will pay tribute to modernism visionary Jacques Caussin with the 466th star on the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars. 

Sustainability Subcommittee on Climate Action
5 p.m. | City Hall
According to the agenda, committee members will discuss shade structures, a ban on woodburning fires, and more. 

The Mod Squad Variety Show
5 p.m. | The Palm Springs Cultural Center
Enjoy an evening of live music at the valley’s “Happiest happy hour!” This week features hosts Jeff Stewart, Francesca Amari, and Wayne Abravanel. ($10)

“Witchland”
7 p.m. | Revolution Stage Company
“Witchland” combines elements of traditional theatrical storytelling with immersive haunted elements. The story is based on the author’s experiences growing up in Richland, Washington, deemed the most toxic place in the Western Hemisphere. ($25)

Rock the Park: Cash, The Killer, and the King
7 p.m. | Downtown Park
The free concert series this week will feature a joint tribute to Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley.

SAVE THE DATE

• Palm Springs Modernism Week starting Thursday and going through Feb. 25.
  
  
• Palm Springs International Jazz Festival on Feb. 24 and 25.
  
  
• Mizell Center Third Wednesday Speaker Series on Feb. 28.
  
  
• An evening with PSIPC and Friends on Feb. 29.
  
  
• 26th Annual Hike 4 Hope at the Art Smith Trailhead on March 3.

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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 Oliver Boy, a 10-year-old male mixed breed who’s been at the shelter since December. Staff at the shelter say he’s a good addition to any loving family because he’s had experience with other dogs, cats, and kids. 

• Staff also said the devoted and gentle senior is always up for some quality couch time.

If you’re interested: You can visit the shelter at 4575 E. Mesquite Ave. Make sure to check current hours here or by calling the shelter at 760-416-5718.

• Take a look at all the other pets at the shelter here. And get a jump start on adoption by completing the form here.