Oct. 30 Daily Briefing: Next steps for vacation rental rule proposals, COD agreement official, and more

Welcome to Wednesday, everyone, where we have it on good authority that blockbuster movies will still be showing in the city. Rumors were flying on social media yesterday that Regal Cinemas would be closing this weekend, but what was next could only be guessed. A source confirmed the closure — which appears to be part of bigger issues for the chain — but that the movie theater will live on in another form and continue to show first-run films. Expect a brief closure for the transition to take place, we were told, but few other disruptions.

🎶 Setting the mood: “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo

LEADING OFF

Measures to enhance awareness of short-term rental rules remain up for discussion

Members of the Palm Springs Administrative Appeals Board plan to discuss possible changes to the city’s short-term vacation rental ordinance with Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein before moving forward with the suggestions, it was decided earlier this month.

Driving the news: The board has been exploring new strategies to ensure real estate agents and property buyers are well-versed in the city’s short-term rental regulations, following concerns about insufficient information dissemination. 

• Board members officially considered possible ordinance enhancements at their Oct. 23 meeting. 

At issue: Looking to improve awareness and compliance with local vacation rental policies, board members discussed requiring escrow and title companies to include details on rental restrictions and permit requirements in the closing packages for buyers.

• They also discussed mandatory registration for property management companies with the city and adherence to Palm Springs’ short-term vacation rental rules, including penalties for advertising unlicensed properties.

Raising awareness: The board is also considering launching a public awareness campaign, which would use newspaper ads, TV spots, and seminars to educate property owners about the rental regulations.

• This effort is part of a broader strategy to ensure that both new and existing property owners are continuously reminded of their responsibilities and the legal requirements for renting out their properties.

Next steps: The recommendations are still preliminary, with board members planning to consult with Bernstein before presenting their suggestions to the Palm Springs City Council for final approval.

• City staff are also reviewing current appeal forms to ensure they are comprehensive, covering all types of appeals beyond just vacation rental issues.

What we’re watching: The board’s next meeting, tentatively scheduled for Nov. 13, could provide further insights into the progress.

---

BRIEFLY

🤝 City, COD officially end dispute; campus groundbreaking coming

The Desert Community College District and the city of Palm Springs have officially settled a dispute related to a college-owned parcel of land and a California Public Records Act lawsuit, with College of the Desert (COD) officials reaffirming a commitment to build a satellite campus here.

• Under the terms of the agreement, approved by the City Council last week, COD commits to constructing the Palm Springs campus as planned at a former mall site at East Tahquitz Canyon Way and South Farrell Drive. If the college defaults on the commitment, the city will be able to acquire 110 acres off Tramview Road it once gave the college at no cost. 
  
  
• Coachella Valley voters approved bond measures B in 2004 and CC in 2016, totaling $924.3 million, with the understanding that a campus would be built in Palm Springs and other communities. Disputes arose over transparency and the college’s commitment to the campus in 2021, resulting in a lawsuit filed by the city, which will now be dropped. 
  
  
• Next steps: College officials are actively preparing for the Palm Springs campus groundbreaking, scheduled for Nov. 14, with completion set for fall 2027.

🌿 Board upholds fine for alleged unlicensed cannabis operation

A Palm Springs resident has been fined $5,000 for allegedly running an unlicensed cannabis operation from his home, despite his claims that the plants were hemp. The Palm Springs Administrative Appeals Board upheld the fine after a hearing on Oct. 23.

• During an Aug. 21 search of an East Tachevah Drive property, code enforcement officers found indoor grow rooms, drying areas, outdoor cannabis plants, packaging materials, and labels suggesting commercial production and distribution. 
  
  
• The resident, who lacked the necessary permits for adult-use cannabis business activities, maintained that the plants were only hemp but did not provide test results to support this claim. He acknowledged his involvement with cannabis as a consultant and developer of over 20 licenses.
  
  
• Bottom line: The board, frustrated by the lack of conclusive testing to differentiate between hemp and cannabis, ruled based on the evidence of illegal cannabis activity.

---

TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Sunshine Sisters Breakfast
8 a.m. | Rick’s Restaurant
Join other Palm Springs Sunshine Sisters for breakfast and conversation! Free to attend for members.

Bellydance with Paulette Rees-Denis
11 a.m. | Step by Step Studio
Experience this powerful and divinely feminine dance (but yes, men can dance too!) a cultural blend of Moroccan, Middle East, African, and contemporary moves to dance in our circle. ($60 – $80)

Rotary
12 p.m. | Hilton Palm Springs
One hour Luncheon gathering with weekly changing programs. See newsletter for update. 

Visions of Desire
12 p.m. until 8 p.m. | Cultural Center
The Tom of Finland Foundation presents a special exhibition comprising original artworks by Tom of Finland. Featuring works from the Foundation’s permanent collection, the exhibition includes 20 pieces that span the spectrum of the artist’s career.

Halloween Carnival and Haunted House
4 p.m. until 7 p.m. | Desert Highland Unity Center
The city’s Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a fun and frightful carnival and haunted house at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center. Make sure to wear your best costume for the contest! ($1)

Annual State of the City & Awards
5 p.m. | Palm Springs Art Museum
Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein and members of the city council will share district updates, recent accomplishments, and new ideas with residents and businesses at this event put on by The Palm Springs Chamber of Commerce. Admission to the State of the City program is free. A cocktail reception from 5 p.m. until 6 p.m. is $65.

Film Night: “Tom of Finland” and selected shorts
5 p.m. | Cultural Center
Enjoy a special screening of Tom of Finland (2017), which brings to life Tom of Finland, one of the most influential and celebrated figures of 20th-century gay culture. The evening begins with selected shorts. ($15)

Hugs For Pride 2024
5:30 p.m. | Palm Springs Surf Club
This event benefits Free Mom Hugs. Emcee and performance by Paige Turner, special guest Renee Dalo, and an exceptional performance by Anita Rose O” Hara. Dance to the sound of DJ Lady Pink at the lazy river and pool party. ($50- $175)

Desert Blues Revival
7 p.m. | Agua Caliente Casino
Come listen to authentic Blues, Soul, R&B, and Rock from all over the globe right here in your backyard every Wednesday. ($17)

SAVE THE DATE

• Greater Palm Springs Pride from Friday through Sunday.
  
  
• Bow Wow Ball Friday at Boozehounds.
  
  
• La Cage Aux Folles at Palm Canyon Theatre starting Thursday.
  
  
• Palm Springs Pride 5K Run & Walk on Saturday.
  
  
• Desert Film Society Screenings starting Saturday.
  
  
• Deep Pit BBQ at Los Compadres Stables on Saturday.
  
  
• Palm Springs Food & Wine Festival on Nov. 9 and 10.
  
  
• Desert Air on Nov. 15 and 16.
  
  
• Kewet Native American Learning Day and Market on Nov. 16.

---

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 come in and meet any of the multiple black cats available for adoption at Frisky Business Cat Cafe.

• “Did you know that black cats typically spend 75% longer in shelters?” owner Claire Rogers asked recently. “The myth that black cats are unlucky or ‘evil is just that — a myth! There’s no scientific link between fur color and personality.”

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

• All cats available at Frisky Business come from the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. They are spayed or neutered and can be adopted while you sip a delicious beverage or enjoy a tasty treat. 

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