Palm Springs adopts comprehensive legislative advocacy platform for 2025-2026

The Palm Springs City Council unanimously adopted a comprehensive legislative platform Thursday that will guide the city’s advocacy efforts with state lawmakers on key issues including homelessness, housing, economic development and climate resilience.

The 2025-2026 platform serves as a policy guide for city staff and legislative consultants at Townsend Public Affairs to pursue funding opportunities and engage with policymakers on issues aligned with the council’s strategic goals. 

Councilmember Grace Garner, who originally requested the platform at a May 28 meeting, said it will help the city respond quickly to legislative opportunities. 

Housing priorities include streamlined environmental review for infill and affordable housing projects, expanded access to low-income housing funding and addressing local needs like rent stabilization, and eviction protection.

With homelessness and behavioral health, the document outlines things like flexible funding for housing, mental health treatment and supportive services, and opportunities to help operate the city’s navigation center.

For economic development, the platform supports inclusive growth, art and culture initiatives, the cannabis industry, digital equity, and small business development.

Infrastructure priorities encompass transit improvements, active transportation projects and resilience-focused infrastructure, including modernization of the convention center and fire stations, Palm Springs airport enhancements and improved bicycle and pedestrian safety.

The public safety section calls for funding modern equipment, disaster resilience and violence prevention, with particular focus on vulnerable communities through mental health and outreach-based interventions.

Climate and sustainability goals include expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, reducing utility costs and advancing air quality and waste reduction initiatives.

Council Member Jeffrey Bernstein praised the recent legislative trip to Sacramento with Garner and suggested expanding advocacy efforts to include federal issues. 

“We have an airport, we have a lot of federal issues in our city,” he said. 

Shelby said it can be beneficial for councilmembers to take advocacy trips to Sacramento or Washington, D.C.

“[Advocacy trips are] something that has a lot of benefits even in areas like what we’re experiencing now with Washington, where it’s a little tough on California and some of our local jurisdictions,” Shelby said. “But they always love to hear from us, and they love to hear what’s important.” 

The council also authorized the city attorney to sign onto amicus briefs supporting positions outlined in the platform, allowing for quick responses to time-sensitive legal matters.

Shelby noted the platform doesn’t prevent the city from taking positions on issues not explicitly mentioned, as the advocacy team continues monitoring emerging legislation throughout the year.

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