May 19 Daily Briefing: City starts recovery, paint store approved, tram’s summer hours, and more

Welcome to Monday. Yesterday, city officials gave us the first question at a news conference about the weekend’s deadly bombing. We didn’t ask about the suspect or investigation — we asked how the city might be able to help you, our neighbors, cope with the trauma. Many of you saw things no one should have to see. Others were shaken just reading the news. City Manager Scott Stiles said officials are discussing how best to support residents, and we’ll share any resources as they become available. In the meantime, if you’re struggling, talk to someone you trust. If you have no one, we’re just an email away.

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LEADING OFF

City begins recovery as FBI hunts for clues in clinic bombing

While the FBI continues its investigation, Palm Springs officials and residents are rallying after Saturday’s fertility clinic bombing that killed the suspected terrorist and caused damage to multiple downtown buildings.

Driving the news: The powerful blast at the American Reproductive Centers office in the 1100 block of North Indian Canyon Drive scattered debris over a 250-yard radius, shattered glass at nearby buildings, and injured four people in addition to killing suspected bomber Guy Edward Bartkus, 25, of Twentynine Palms.

• First responders successfully preserved all embryos and reproductive materials at the facility despite extensive damage.
  
• All the injured had been treated and released as of Sunday, according to law enforcement officials. The nature of their injuries was not known.

The investigation: FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis described the bombing as likely motivated by “nihilistic ideations” specifically targeting the IVF facility.

• Investigators are examining a possible manifesto and evidence suggesting Bartkus attempted to livestream the explosion.

The FBI ask: Investigators are seeking the public’s help tracking Bartkus’ movements before the bombing, particularly information about where he might have been in his silver 2010 Ford Fusion sedan with license plate 8HWS848.

• “We know where Mr. Bartkus was at about 6 a.m. We know the timeline of when he entered the city. However, we need the public’s help for identifying where he traversed within the city before the explosion,” Davis said.
• Anyone with information should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit this website.

The latest: City Manager Scott Stiles announced support will be coming for affected businesses and homes, including expedited permits and potential financial assistance. More information will be available at this city website.

• Roads near the scene were beginning to reopen Sunday afternoon and updates are being posted to the city’s Facebook page.

What’s next: American Reproductive Centers said it plans to resume operations in some form today, with Dr. Maher Abdallah stating, “This moment has shaken us — but it has not stopped us.”

Read our latest coverage | View images from Saturday

BRIEFLY

🏗️ Council overturns earlier rejection of paint store project after revisions

The Palm Springs City Council approved a Sherwin-Williams paint store in the Uptown District last week, overturning a Planning Commission rejection. The approval requires the building incorporate mid-century architectural elements.

• The Planning Commission had denied the project 4-3, citing inconsistency with the General Plan’s vision for the area. But owner Wayne Gottlieb rejected that determination, noting that he couldn’t develop the small vacant lot as mixed-use despite six years of attempts.
  
• The debate centered on whether councilmembers could deny a business permitted under current C-1 zoning. Planning Director Christopher Hadwin acknowledged a disconnect between zoning code and General Plan goals, suggesting policy changes were needed.
  
• Bottom line: Following the Planning  Commission decision, Gottlieb revised his plans to improve pedestrian access, add windows and enhance landscaping. He agreed to a request to give the building more of a mid-century feel. The project now moves to the Architectural Review Committee for design refinements.

Read our complete story

⚖️ Trial scheduled to begin for Palm Springs developer

A jury has been selected in the public corruption case against developer John Wessman, who stands accused of bribing former Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet for favorable treatment on city projects. KESQ reports that opening statements are scheduled to begin today at the Banning Justice Center.

• Wessman, 86, has pleaded not guilty to all charges while Pougnet, 62, recently pleaded guilty to nine counts of bribery by a public official, eight counts of illicit financial interest in public contracts, conspiracy, and three perjury counts. Pougnet is scheduled for sentencing on July 2 and could testify against Wessman.
  
• Prosecutors allege Wessman and developer Richard Meaney paid Pougnet at least $375,000 between 2012 and 2014 to buy votes and influence projects in Palm Springs, including the Kimpton Rowan Hotel and downtown redevelopment project.
  
• Bottom line: Wessman was a leading developer in Palm Springs credited with shaping the city’s modern downtown through multiple projects. The case began in 2017 when Wessman and Pougnet were indicted by a Riverside County grand jury.

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TODAY’S FEATURED EVENTS

Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregiver Support Group
2:30 p.m. | Mizell Center
This weekly support group offers a safe, confidential, supportive environment for individuals caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia.

California Community of Men’s Monday Coffee
4:30 p.m. | Play Lounge & Café
Join the group for coffee, chat, and chew! No RSVPs necessary.

Parks and Recreation Commission
5:30 p.m. | City Hall
This city commission will hold its regular monthly meeting both in person and virtually. You can see the agenda here.

Architectural Review Committee
5:30 p.m. | City Hall
The seven-member committee will hold its regularly scheduled meeting to review and make recommendations on building and landscape design. You can find tonight’s agenda here.

Conversational Spanish
5:30 p.m. | The Center
Join a dynamic and diverse group of people who get together to chat and strengthen their language skills. New attendees, register online here.

Adult Tap Dance Class
6:30 p.m. | Leisure Center Dance Studio
Adult intermediate tap starts at 6:30 p.m., and “absolute beginners” adult tap is at 7:30 p.m. (“Two left feet are optional.”) ($20)

See all events

SAVE THE DATE

• Ride of Silence on Wednesday at Ruth Hardy Park.
  
• Dip Into Summer free pool and park fun at the Palm Springs Leisure Center on Saturday.
  
• South Palm Canyon Drive bridge project meetings in person on May 29 and virtual on June 2.
  
• “Veils: A Requiem For Trayvon” film screening at the Cultural Center on Friday. ($18)
  
• Memorial Day Air Fair and Flower Drop at the Palm Springs Air Museum on May 26.
  
• Miralon Blood Drive with LifeStream Blood Bank at Miralon on May 30.
  
• 2025 Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week starts May 30.
  
  Submit your event

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AND FINALLY …

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s breathtaking views during the golden hour or catch a sunset from atop Mount San Jacinto, your opportunities are about to expand with the arrival of summer.

Driving the news: Tramway officials said last week the attraction will begin its extended summer hours on Memorial Day weekend, offering visitors more time to enjoy the mountain’s spectacular vistas and cooler temperatures through early September.

• The summer schedule runs May 23 through Sept. 1, with Friday and Saturday trams operating until 9 p.m. (final descent at 10 p.m.).

Holiday happenings: On May 25, the final tram up will depart at 9 p.m., with the last tram down at 10:30 p.m., while May 26 will see the last ascent at 8 p.m. and final descent at 9:30 p.m.

Beyond the ride: Mount San Jacinto State Park and the Natural History Association will host educational summer programs covering practical wilderness skills including backcountry navigation and minimalist camping techniques.

Why it matters: The extended hours and guided Sunday nature walks  provide both tourists and locals additional opportunities to escape the desert heat while exploring either the Desert View Trail or Long Valley Nature Trail with knowledgeable guides.

Details: Find more information here.ds the official title “Sir Ronald Oliver OMS” after being granted Knighthood by the Sovereign Nation of Sealand in 2018.