During a recent Palm Desert city council meeting, residents voiced concerns on various pressing issues, including genetic engineering and veteran support.

Barbara Wasserkrug, a local resident, raised alarms about what she termed the \"genetic takeover\" of DNA, warning against the manipulation of human mRNA and DNA by scientists. She described her upcoming free informational presentation titled \"The Genetic Takeover of All DNA on This Planet, Including Humans,\" scheduled for July 12 at Desert Cities Baptist Church. Wasserkrug criticized the United Nations' role in regulating genome editing technologies, claiming it poses a threat to humanity.

In a poignant public comment, retired Army nurse Anna Margaret Thomas shared her struggles with home foreclosure, attributing her situation to changes in veteran benefits following the construction of a border wall. She expressed gratitude for President Biden's moratorium on VA foreclosures, which has provided her temporary relief. Thomas emphasized the importance of community resources, highlighting her positive experience with local veteran assistance programs.

The meeting also addressed routine city matters, including the cancellation of a housing commission meeting due to a lack of quorum. City staff requested the removal of certain items from the consent calendar, citing urgent concerns related to housing authority properties. The council discussed these items, ensuring that community needs remain a priority.

As the meeting concluded, the council members reiterated their commitment to maintaining decorum and encouraged residents to engage in future discussions.