Palm Springs secures pro housing designation to boost affordable housing initiatives

The Palm Springs City Council convened on May 28, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in housing initiatives and the city’s commitment to addressing homelessness. The meeting highlighted the recent achievement of a pro-housing designation, which city officials believe will enhance funding opportunities and position Palm Springs as a model for affordable housing across California.

Council member McGarner opened the discussion by expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the council and city staff in securing the designation. She emphasized that this achievement reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to affordable housing and the reduction of homelessness. McGarner noted that recent meetings in Sacramento with the Business Consumer Services and Housing Agency showcased the city’s progress and the positive impact of services like the navigation center, which has contributed to a decrease in the unhoused population.

Council member Bernstein echoed McGarner's sentiments, acknowledging the extensive range of programs discussed during their Sacramento visit, including initiatives for first-time homeowners and tenant relief. He praised the efforts of previous councils and current staff in pushing these housing initiatives forward, highlighting the collaborative nature of the work involved.

The council's discussions underscored a unified commitment to enhancing housing accessibility and support for all income levels in Palm Springs. The meeting concluded with a shared optimism about celebrating the new designation and the potential it holds for future housing projects and funding opportunities.