Parks & Recreation Commission approves agreement with newly formed foundation

The Palm Springs Parks & Recreation Commission on Monday approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the newly formed Palm Springs Parks Foundation. 

The MOU “outlines the separation between the Commission, as you all focus on policy and procedures and work in coordination with the department, whereas the foundation will work towards helping to raise funds in areas that have some gaps,” said a member of city staff on Monday. 

The MOU focuses on three pillars of focus for the foundation — water, shade, and activation — and also ties into the city’s parks and recreation master plan.  

The agreement also makes clear the foundation will operate as an independent nonprofit, retaining control over how funds are raised and spent, while making recommendations to the city on how money should be used.

As part of its fundraising strategy, the foundation will be able to offer naming rights for parks and facilities, with larger donations tied to longer-term recognition.

The city will remain responsible for maintaining parks and facilities, and the initial agreement runs for one year before coming back for evaluation and potential renewal.

The Palm Springs Parks Foundation is a nonprofit incorporated a little over a year ago with the intention of serving as a fundraising partner for the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. 

“Our vision is to create vibrant public spaces that foster health, joy, and connection,” states the foundation’s website. 

Other cities utilize parks foundations to bolster funding for city parks and programs. The Los Angeles Parks Foundation, for example, was established in 2008 and has since raised over $47 million for Los Angeles city parks. 

“Parks are vital to the health and spirit of a community. Thoughtfully designed public spaces strengthen neighborhoods, create a sense of belonging, and connect community members of all ages to the natural environment. When people feel safe, supported, and welcomed, they are able to grow, explore, and thrive,” the Palm Springs Parks Foundation’s website continues. 

The MOU will next go before city council for final approval at its May 27 meeting. 

The commission also received updates on several parks projects currently underway across the city: 

• Desert Highland Park: The city expects to receive new playground equipment soon, which will be stored until the park is ready for installation. The playground replacement project should be underway by late spring. 
• Demuth Park: Construction began March 2 on multiple park improvements, including new restrooms, dog park renovations, turf conversions for the youth sports fields, and expanded parking at Demuth Community Center and the softball fields. The target completion date is October 2026. 
• Public art installations are underway in multiple city parks. The AIDs Memorial should be installed in Downtown Park by late summer or early fall; a new shade-providing dragonfly bench for Sunrise Park is currently in the engineering phase; and the city is awaiting an update on a grant to restore the Richard Wyatt Jr. mural on the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center. 

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