The Springs Insider October 25 by Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

The Springs TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) was created in 2016 in cooperation with the former Coachella, La Quinta, Cathedral City and Indio Chambers, along with the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians. It enhances and significantly improves the way businesses interact with each other and the community in the entire Coachella Valley. As a Regional Chamber, the GCVCC delivers services and benefits to its members on a scope not seen before in the area. Since inception, it has also launched the Desert Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce and the Indian Wells Business District.

The Springs Insider is produced by the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the City of Desert Hot Springs.

The Springs Insider is an official publication of the GCVCC. Distributed free to all residents, Chamber members and businesses in Desert Hot Springs.

To advertise please call (760) 347-0676. Please Note: The opinions and views expressed in all editorial material are those of the writer or person interviewed and are not necessarily those of the GCVCC, its Board of Directors, or the advertisers in The Springs Insider. The GCVCC endorses no person, political candidate or opinion unless specifically stated. The Springs Insider reserves the right to reject certain advertising submissions. For a list of advertising standards, please contact staff. The Springs Insider reserves the right to edit all submissions for grammar, length, and questionable content. Advertisers please note that colors may look slightly darker, or slightly lighter due to variables in the printing process. Questions or comments? Email us at info@GCVCC.org or call (760) 347-0676.

A Team Approach to Cancer Care

THE DESERT HOT SPRINGS CHAMBER: LOCAL STRENGTH, REGIONAL REACH

The Desert Hot Springs Chamber: Local Strength, Regional Reach

The Desert Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, as part of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC), connects local businesses to the power of a regional network representing more than 1,000 members. Together, we serve as a unified voice for business, bringing credibility, advocacy, and opportunity to every member who joins.

Credibility and Visibility

Membership provides an instant signal of trust and commitment. An enhanced online directory profile featuring logos, photos, and links ensures members are easy to find and recognized as serious community partners. Ribbon cuttings, milestone celebrations, and Chamber press coverage further elevate business visibility. With opportunities to be featured in newsletters, social channels, and publications like The Springs Insider, members gain consistent recognition throughout the region.

Networking That Works

The Chamber calendar is designed for connection. Mixers, social hours, and small-group lunch clubs provide dynamic opportunities to meet peers, build referrals, and form lasting partnerships. Whether through casual gatherings or formal programs,

members benefit from consistent, meaningful interactions that drive real business growth.

Advocacy With Impact

Membership also means a seat at the table when it matters most. Monthly legislative meetings, breakfasts with elected officials, and a formal policy platform ensure the business perspective is consistently represented. Members don’t just react to policy—they help shape it, with the backing of a regional chamber that speaks with a strong and unified voice.

Programs That Deliver

Practical support programs add even more value. Employer Connect, for example, helps reduce onboarding costs by reimbursing businesses for eligible new hires in their first 90 days. The Ambassador Program allows members to deepen involvement, gain recognition, and expand their networks by volunteering at events and supporting outreach.

At its core, the Chamber is a catalyst for commerce, a convener of leaders, and a champion for the local business community. For businesses in Desert Hot Springs, membership is more than belonging—it’s about growing, connecting, and having a voice in the future of our region.

For more information on joining, visit gcvcc.org or call 760-347-0676.

5 Reasons to Join the Chamber

Networking Opportunities – Connect with local business owners, community leaders, and potential clients at exclusive events.

Business Promotion – Gain visibility through chamber directories, social media, and marketing opportunities.

Advocacy & Representation – Have a voice in local government and business policies that impact your industry.

Educational Resources – Access workshops, seminars, and expert advice to help grow your business.

Community Involvement – Support local and show your commitment to the Coachella Valley region.

A Message from City Manager Doria Wilms

As we welcome the fall season, I am proud to share how Desert Hot Springs continues to grow stronger, more connected, and more vibrant.

This fall, we continue moving forward with transformative projects that will shape quality of life for years to come. From the nearly complete Fire Station 98 and upgrades along Hacienda Avenue, to major economic drivers like the new Amazon Logistics & Fulﬁllment Center, our city is preparing for both growth and opportunity. Work also continues on the Police Annex Expansion, further strengthening public safety for our community.

At the same time, the expansion of our Downtown Arts and Cultural District and the Phase II Mural Program—launching this fall and continuing into next spring—will highlight the creativity and spirit that deﬁne us. We also proudly celebrated the Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies’ Grand opening of the Desert Community Animal Center, an important milestone for regional animal care.

Guided by our 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, as laid out by our City Council, we are advancing community priorities: expanding housing, strengthening code enforcement, addressing homelessness, and enhancing neighborhood beautiﬁcation. Every step reﬂects our commitment to building a safer, cleaner, and more welcoming city.

As we look ahead, we know that every mural painted, every park enhanced, and every project completed is part of a larger vision—building a city that honors its past while embracing its future. Together, through creativity, compassion, and collaboration, we are not just moving Desert Hot Springs forward; we are creating a community where every resident feels proud to belong.

With warm regards,

Doria

W ilms

STRATEGIC PLAN IN ACTION: Turning Vision Into Progress for Desert Hot Springs

The City’s 2025–2027 Strategic Plan is no longer just a roadmap — it’s becoming reality. Across Desert Hot Springs, projects are advancing that reflect the priorities set by the community and City Council: strengthening public safety, modernizing infrastructure, improving parks, and expanding essential services. In July, we also celebrated the much-anticipated Grand Opening of the Desert Community Animal Center — a milestone that expands affordable veterinary care, spay/neuter services, and pet wellness resources in our city. Together, these milestones show how the Strategic Plan is guiding Desert Hot Springs toward a safer, healthier, and more vibrant future.

Top News

Fire Station 98: Strengthening Public Safety

At Hacienda Avenue and Long Canyon Road, the new 9,000+ sq ft Fire Station 98 is entering its final phase. Expected to open by late 2025, this Cal Fire–operated facility will expand staffing and improve response times. Follow us on our socials and stay tuned for grand opening details.

Hacienda Avenue Street Improvements: Building a Better Corridor

Work is advancing on the Hacienda Avenue Street Improvements from West Drive to Tamar Drive, with completion anticipated by March 2026. The project features 10,000 feet of new sidewalks, ADA-accessible driveways and ramps, landscaped parkways, bike lanes, 39 streetlights, and striped crosswalks—creating a safer, more connected, and welcoming corridor for our community. Stay tuned for continued updates as construction progresses.

PROGRESS YOU CAN SEE:

STREETS, PARKS & RECREATION UPDATES

Reflection Park Project

Work is progressing at Palm Drive and 8th Street, with completion anticipated by December 2025. The project brings pedestrian paths, decomposed granite, landscaping with irrigation, a monument sign, and 14 palm trees—transforming the area into a welcoming community space.

John H. Furbee Aquatics Center Improvements

Upgrades are in motion with completion expected by January 2026. Improvements include pool plaster, decks, gutters, and finishes, plus a new splash pad and water features—enhancing recreation and creating a more enjoyable experience for Desert Hot Springs families.

Wardman Park Shade Structures

Construction has begun on new shade structures over the little league baseball bleachers at Wardman Park. Completion is anticipated by January 2026. These additions will provide comfort and accessibility, creating a better experience for players, families, and the wider community.

POLICE ANNEX EXPANSION:

BUILDING A SAFER TOMORROW

A new era of public safety is taking shape in Desert Hot Springs with the construction of the 6,000+ sq ft Police Department Annex. Set to open in March 2026, this state-of-the-art facility will replace the aging trailers that have served for more than 20 years. The Annex will house the Detective Division, a modern Training and Briefing Center, and new locker rooms—giving officers the tools and space they need to better serve our community. Stay tuned as we reach new milestones in strengthening safety and trust across

Amazon Logistics and Fulfillment Center:

DRIVING JOBS AND GROWTH

Desert Hot Springs is proud to see progress on Amazon’s 700,000+ sq ft Fulfillment Hub. Recent progress includes office completion, warehouse construction, utility installation, and road improvements. Once operational, the facility will create about 1,400 jobs and strengthen the local economy. Stay tuned for the grand opening.

DOWNTOWN DESERT HOT SPRINGS WHERE CULTURE COMES ALIVE

Arts, Eats & Beats — ONLY AT DESERT NIGHTS ON THE BLVD.

Pierson Boulevard in Downtown Desert Hot Springs is transforming into a destination where art, music, food, and community come together. The momentum is building, and is becoming the heart of culture and connection in our city.

BLVD DESERT ON BLVD

Desert Nights on The BLVD: Arts, Eats & Beats

This fall, Pierson Boulevard between Cactus Drive and West Drive will come alive with Desert Nights on The BLVD., the city’s new signature concert series. Every 2nd Saturday, DJs will ignite the night with high-energy mixes under the desert sky, and every 4th Saturday, tribute bands will transform the boulevard with family-friendly performances.

Enjoy an evening filled with food trucks, local vendors, a festive beer garden, and activities for all ages. Desert Nights on The BLVD. isn’t just an event — it’s the beginning of a tradition that celebrates the energy, culture, and community spirit of Desert Hot Springs.

A New Farmers Market Experience

Adding to the excitement, a lively Farmers Market will launch soon, bringing fresh produce, local goods, and a true community gathering place to The BLVD.

LINEUP EVENT DATE

THE MURALS OF

DOWNTOWN DESERT HOT SPRINGS

Murals that Celebrate Our Spirit

After the success of Phase 1, which brought world-renowned artists like Shepard Fairey, Dabs Myla, Royyal Dog, Mr. B Baby, and more to our city’s walls, we are excited to launch Phase 2 of the Downtown Mural Project. In partnership with Known Gallery, 12 additional murals will be created, adding more vibrancy, creativity, and pride to the heart of Desert Hot Springs.

Engage in Your

CITY’S

In Desert Hot Springs, public safety is strongest when residents and the Police Department work side by side.The Citizens on Patrol (COP) program offers community members a meaningful way to contribute—serving as extra eyes and ears that help deter crime, support officers, and keep neighborhoods safe.

COP volunteers do much more than assist with traffic control or administrative tasks—they provide peace of mind. The commitment is just 8 hours a month—a small investment of time that creates a big impact. With training, radios, and support from the department, volunteers provide peace of mind while officers focus on urgent calls. By joining COP, you’re not just volunteering—you’re helping shape a safer, stronger, and more connected Desert Hot Springs.

For more info or to apply: DHSPD Citizens on Patrol citizensonpatrol@dhspd.com (760) 329-2904 ext. 348

DESERT HOT SPRINGS GROWS STRONGER WHEN RESIDENTS STEP UP. FROM LENDING YOUR TIME TO LEARNING NEW SKILLS, HERE ARE TWO WAYS YOU CAN BE PART OF THE CITY’S FUTURE.

Tom Pittenger, Police Service Administrator tpittenger@dhspd.com | (760) 329-2904 ext. 347 Explorer Program: Discover Your Future in Law Enforcement

Are you ready to step into the world of public safety? The Desert Hot Springs Police Department has launched the Police Explorer Program, giving youth ages 14–20 who have completed the 8th grade a unique chance to learn, lead, and serve.

Explorers get hands-on experience alongside officers, develop leadership and communication skills, and gain insight into real-world police operations. It’s more than a program—it’s a pathway to future careers and a chance to make a difference in your community today.

How to Apply:

- Complete both application forms. - Submit by email or drop off at the Desert Hot Springs Police Department.

For more information, email Officer Huerta at mhuerta@dhspd.com

KNOW YOUR CITY GET

CITY DIRECTORY

Desert Hot Springs is powered by a dedicated team of departments and divisions working every day to keep our city safe, connected, and thriving. From planning and infrastructure to recreation and public safety, each division plays a vital role in serving residents and supporting our community’s growth. Whether you need help with building permits, business licenses, recreation programs, or neighborhood safety, this directory connects you to the right team.

Meet our Mayor and City Council, who work alongside these departments to guide the

cityofdhs.org/departments/

CONNECTED

BUILDING DIVISON

Vanessa Osuna ext. 237

PLANNING DIVISON

Eva Lara ext. 251

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Judith Dueñas ext. 222

ENGINEERING DIVISON

Jesus Lopez ext. 221

RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Melissa Purcell ext. 139

CODE COMPLIANCE

Laura Harris ext. 271

CANNABIS COMPLIANCE

Laura Harris ext. 271

BUSINESS LICENSING / STVR

Kathlyn Palmer ext. 241

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

Valerie Rodriguez ext. 229

POLICE DEPARTMENT

Police Records ext. 236

ANIMAL CONTROL

Tillie Dean ext.450

CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE

Emily Haecker ext.115

For a more detailed list of services and online tools, visit our website anytime!

MAYOR

SCOTT MATAS (At-large) SMatas@CityofDHS.org (760) 200- 7428

MAYOR PRO TEM

GARY GARDNER (District 1) GGardner@CityofDHS.org (206) 669- 0548

DANIEL PITTS (District 2) DPitts@CityofDHS.org (562) 688- 8241

JAN PYE (District 3) JPye@CityofDHS.org (760) 600- 6060

DIRK VOSS (District 4) DVoss@CityofDHS.org (909) 730- 2773

THRIVING THROUGH GROWTH & LEARNING IN DESERT HOT SPRINGS

From the Senior Center to our schools and City Hall, Desert Hot Springs is investing in programs that strengthen wellness, leadership, and civic engagement.

Desert Rose Thrift Shop

Tucked inside the Senior Center, the Desert Rose Thrift Shop is open Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Beginning Saturday, October 25, the shop will also welcome visitors one Saturday each month—a perfect chance for students and residents to stop in and discover unique finds. Upcoming Saturday dates are October 25, November 22, and December 20, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Every purchase makes a difference, with all proceeds going directly back into programs that support our senior community. See you there!

Address: 11777 West Drive Phone: 760-329-0222

Civics Academy

The Civics Academy also kicks off this fall, offering residents, business owners, and employees a free, seven-week introduction to how their city works. For those who can’t join this session, the program will return, continuing to strengthen connections between the community and City Hall.

Senior Wellness Expo

The Second Annual Senior Wellness Expo returns on Friday, October 18, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Senior Center. The event will bring together health screenings, wellness resources, and community partners for a morning dedicated to senior health and connection.

Future Leaders Program

The Future Leaders Program is designed to empower high school juniors and seniors with real-world leadership skills, civic knowledge, and opportunities to engage with city leaders. This fall marks the start of a new session. While the application window has closed, it’s a program to keep in mind each year as it helps prepare the next generation of community leaders.

Together, these opportunities reflect how Desert Hot Springs is growing, learning, and thriving—through every stage of life.

demolished, environmental cleanup was completed, and the site was secured. Today, the parcel is fully cleared, regularly monitored, and no longer a hazard—reflecting the City’s commitment to safe, welcoming neighborhoods for all.

ON THE FRONT LINES OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS

Before the sun rises over Desert Hot Springs, while most of us are still asleep, the Critical Response Team (CRT) is already on the move. Made up of two Desert Hot Springs Police Officers, two City Compliance Officers, and four social workers from the Social Work Action Group (SWAG), the CRT is where compassion meets enforcement. They are out on our city’s main corridors at daybreak—the gateways that define how we see ourselves and how others see us—ready to face unpredictable challenges with equal parts care and authority.

Some mornings bring small but meaningful wins: connecting someone with housing support, linking them to mental health care, or directing them to substance treatment services. But when a situation threatens public safety, the response is immediate and decisive. Whether it’s a mental health crisis unfolding in public or substance use creating dangerous conditions, our team will not allow that behavior to put residents at risk. SWAG’s social workers focus on stabilizing the individual and offering resources, but our Compliance Officers and Police Officers step in to enforce order when it’s needed. Compassion matters — but the safety of Desert Hot Springs residents will always come first.

Make no mistake—this work is not easy. It takes courage to approach someone in crisis, knowing the risk. It takes grit to have the same conversation with someone who has relapsed again and again. And it takes resilience to clear the same illegal dumping site, only to find it trashed the very next day. Yet the CRT shows up daily—driven not by convenience, but by commitment: love for this community and determination to keep it safe.

BEYOND THE FRONT LINE:

HOW RESIDENTS CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

Illegal dumping is one of their toughest battles. Mattresses, furniture, and trash left on sidewalks and vacant lots don’t disappear on their own. When bulky items aren’t scheduled for pickup, they often end up scattered across our streets and desert. That responsibility falls on the CRT Team—hauling debris, restoring order, and protecting the image and health of our city. They will keep doing the work, but it is not sustainable unless we, as residents, do our part.

And here’s the truth: Desert Hot Springs is taking this seriously. Enforcement of dumping violations is increasing. Fines are real, and accountability will follow. At the same time, resources exist to do things the right way: schedule bulky item pickups with Desert Valley Disposal at (760) 329-5030 or trash@desertvalleydisposal.com, and report illegal dumping at cityofdhs.org/illegal-dumping.

What keeps the CRT moving are the wins: an unhoused resident finally choosing stability, a street corner cleared for families, or a resident’s simple thank-you. But they should not carry this burden alone. Every resident has a role in protecting the safety, dignity, and pride of our city.

The CRT Team does not step into this work because it is easy. They do it because they believe in Desert Hot Springs. And as a city, we are committed to backing them with both compassion and enforcement. Every day, they put themselves on the line. The least we can do is stand with them—and take responsibility for our part in building the safe, clean community we all deserve.

cityofdhs.org

DESERT HOT SPRINGS WHERE LOCAL MATTERS

Story by: GCVCC Staff

Desert Hot Springs is a community defined by its people, its culture, and the unique businesses that make our city vibrant. Every time we shop, dine, or enjoy services locally, we are helping to strengthen the heartbeat of our town. Supporting local businesses means keeping dollars in our community, sustaining jobs for our neighbors, and preserving the distinctive character that makes Desert Hot Springs such a special place to live and work. We’re shining a spotlight on six businesses that are making a difference right here at home — building community while enriching our daily lives.

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum

Cabot’s Pueblo Museum is more than a historic site — it’s a living testament to the pioneer spirit and desert artistry of Cabot Yerxa, who built his Hopi-inspired pueblo with reclaimed materials over decades. Wander through its 35 rooms filled with artifacts, indigenous pottery, and the unique architectural touches that tell stories of early homesteading in this rugged land. The museum offers guided and self-guided tours and invites community members to become volunteers or members of “Team Yerxa.”

As a local institution, Cabot’s Pueblo is an anchor of cultural identity for Desert Hot Springs. It draws tourists into town, boosting nearby businesses, while giving residents a tangible connection to our desert heritage. When we visit or donate,

we help the museum continue to preserve Cabot’s legacy — and preserve a piece of what makes DHS special. Visit at 67616 E . Desert View Ave ., Desert Hot Springs • cabotsmuseum .org • (760) 329-7610 .

Food Now DHS (Family Services of the Desert)

Food Now is a vital lifeline for many in our community, providing food assistance, outreach, and support to families facing food insecurity. Through partnerships, they provide 200 ready-to-eat meals weekly to unsheltered clients, maintain a pet food distribution program, and offer home deliveries to those with limited mobility. Each year, Food Now distributes nearly a million pounds of fresh produce, dairy, proteins, and grains out of its DHS location.

By supporting Food Now — whether via donations, volunteering, or local advocacy — we help keep our community safer, healthier, and more resilient. These services reduce stress on families, help children stay nourished, and contribute to the social fabric that binds DHS together. Local support ensures the services remain responsive to our specific neighborhood needs — not outsourced or stretched thin by outside systems. Find them at 14080 Palm Drive, Suite E, Desert Hot Springs • thefamilyservicesofthedesert .org • (760) 288-7878 .

Dazzle Beauty

Dazzle Beauty is our local boutique for cosmetics, fragrances, hair extensions, skin care, and more — all from a small shop on Palm Drive. Their carefully curated inventory emphasizes highquality, cruelty-free products, with new items added regularly to keep things fresh. Whether you’re seeking everyday essentials or something bold for an event, Dazzle Beauty offers a personal experience you won’t find in big-box chains.

By choosing Dazzle Beauty, we help sustain local jobs, preserve the character of our retail strip, and nurture a business

whose success depends on our loyalty. That relationship means more responsive service, a chance for our neighbors to shine, and a beauty hub that reflects the tastes and culture of DHS itself. Stop by 66292 Pierson Blvd, Desert Hot Springs • dazzle-beauty .com • (760) 288-2433 .

Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis

Perched on Miracle Hill, Azure Palm Hot Springs is a crown jewel of the city’s spa legacy. The resort features free-flowing mineral pools, private in-suite tubs, a Finnish sauna, a Himalayan salt room, and a full menu of spa treatments — all designed to renew body and spirit. Their café emphasizes healthy fare, pressed juices, and locally inspired dishes.

Beyond being a treat for locals and visitors, Azure Palm helps anchor our city’s identity as a spa destination. Guests who come for the waters also explore nearby restaurants, galleries, and shops — all of which benefit from their stay. When we celebrate and support Azure Palm, we invest in the reputation and vitality of DHS as a unique place to heal, rest, and thrive. Visit at 67589 Hacienda Ave, Desert Hot Springs • azurepalmhotsprings .com • (760) 251-6700 .

Desert Community Animal Center

The Desert Community Animal Center, newly opened in DHS, fills a long-standing gap: affordable, accessible veterinary care for our region. It offers wellness visits, walk-in vaccinations, a spay/neuter clinic, pet food bank, and end-of-life services — all priced with affordability in mind. The center is operated by Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies and is intentionally designed to serve DHS and its surrounding communities as a local resource.

With the center now in town, pet owners no longer have to travel long distances for essential services. By supporting the animal center — through donations, volunteer time, or choosing adoption locally — we strengthen a compassionate, caring infrastructure that keeps pets (and their people) happier and healthier in Desert Hot Springs. Visit at 13700 Palm Drive, Desert Hot Springs • desertvet .org • (760) 416-5719 .

Delicias Mexican Cuisine

Born from a love of Mexico City’s vibrant food and culture, Delicias Mexican Cuisine brings authentic flavor and artistry to the heart of Desert Hot Springs. Founded by Angie and her husband Armando, Delicias was created to share the “Magic of Mexican City food” — colorful plates, creative cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere where friends, families, and couples can connect over every meal.

The menu is a celebration of tradition and innovation, from their beloved tacos and enchiladas to fresh ceviches, brunch favorites, and signature margarita flights.

Every detail at Delicias reflects passion and pride — from the handcrafted recipes and décor inspired by Mexico City’s streets to the genuine warmth of its service. Whether you’re celebrating, grabbing a casual bite, or discovering your new favorite dish, Delicias feels like home with a touch of fiesta. Visit at 66121 Pierson Blvd, Desert Hot Springs • ilovedeliciasmexicancuisine .com • Open Mon–Thu 11 AM–9PM, Friday- Sat 10AM9PM, Sun 9AM–9PM .

Every one of these businesses — from cultural gems like Cabot’s Pueblo Museum to vital services like Food Now and the Desert Community Animal Center, to innovative housing, local beauty, and world-class spa experiences — adds to the rich fabric of Desert Hot Springs. When we choose to shop, visit, donate, or participate locally, we are making an investment in our neighbors, our economy, and our shared future. Supporting local is not just about convenience — it’s about pride, resilience, and belonging. Together, we can keep Desert Hot Springs thriving.

To learn more about businesses in Desert Hot Springs and throughout the Coachella Valley, visit gcvcc.org

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