Measure J Oversight Commission begins review of record 52 community-initiated proposals

The Palm Springs Measure J Oversight Commission is gearing up to review a record 52 applications for community-initiated projects, with funding requests spanning a wide range of city improvements.

At their regular monthly meeting Thursday evening, commissioners discussed the evaluation process for the proposals, which include requests for street paving, facility upgrades, and community improvements like sidewalks and stop signs.

“We’re going to have our hands full and a lot of work over the next 30 to 60 days,” said Chair Peter Sipkins, addressing the commissioners.

Vice Chair Andrea Davis outlined the review process, explaining that commissioners have until Nov. 15 to individually evaluate and rate all 52 proposals using an online submission form. “The sooner we can get that done, the better,” Davis said, noting the tight timeline before the commission’s next regular meeting in November.

The applications seek funding from Measure J, a one-cent sales tax approved by Palm Springs voters in 2011 and appearing on the ballot again this year. The tax generates approximately $21 million annually, with a portion set aside for community-initiated projects.

City Engineer Joel Montalvo provided updates on ongoing Measure J-funded projects, including the main library remodel, which is 90% complete in design and expected to begin construction in May 2025.

Montalvo also reported that the $9 million street paving project funded by Measure J last year has been completed under budget.

As commissioners prepare to review the new proposals, questions arose about the city’s existing processes for some requested improvements.

Montalvo cautioned that one application for a four-way stop sign would still need to go through the city’s established evaluation process, even if funded.

“If the commission grants funding for a four-way stop that’s being requested and it doesn’t meet the process that we have to evaluate, we will not install stops,” Montalvo explained.

Commissioners also sought clarification on projects requesting improvements to facilities in Sunrise Park, including the Boys and Girls Club and Mizell Center.

Director of Finance Kris Mooney confirmed that the city owns the Mizell Center, while the Boys and Girls Club owns its building but leases the land from the city. He told commissioners that previous commissions have funded projects for both organizations, regardless of ownership structure.

The commission previously recommended a $500,000 cap on individual project funding, but Mooney reminded them that the City Council had suggested flexibility for compelling projects.

“If you like a project and you think it’s a compelling project and it’s over $500,000, then please consider,” Mooney advised.

As the review process begins, commissioners expressed enthusiasm for the community engagement demonstrated by the record number of applications.

“I just want to thank the 52 applicants who all spent an incredible amount of time submitting their applications for this process,” said Davis . “I’m excited to actually review all these projects, as I’m sure my fellow commissioners are.”

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.

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