Kimberly Barraza appointed president of Healthcare District Board

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - Kimberly Barraza was appointed the new president of the Desert Healthcare District & Foundation Board.

"It is an exciting time for the Healthcare District, as we enter 2026 and continue our strategic planning process which will help determine our Board and staff priorities for the next several years," Christensen said. "We look forward to supporting President Barraza and the entire Board as we work together to advance community wellness in the Coachella Valley."

Barraza joined the Board in November 2022, elected to a four-year term by Coachella Valley voters. She is a resident of the District's zone six, which encompasses a majority of Indio and Coachella.

She currently serves on the Program Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, and as chairperson of the Legislative Policy Committee. One of her first duties as president will be to appoint fellow Board Directors to various committees.

"I am honored to serve as Board President of the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation," President Barraza said in a written statement. "Our region continues to face significant health challenges, and this role comes with a responsibility to lead with transparency, collaboration, and a deep commitment to equity. I look forward to working alongside my fellow Board members, staff, and community partners to strengthen access to care, invest in prevention, and ensure our resources are used in ways that truly improve health outcomes for the residents of the Coachella Valley."

Completing the Board leadership for 2026, Directors Greg Rodriguez (zone one) and Dr. Daniel Logsdon (zone three) will continue as vice-president and treasurer, respectively. Director Leticia DeLara (zone seven), a former Board president, will serve as secretary.

The seven-member Board also includes Carole Rogers (zone two) and Evett PerezGil (zone four).

Following the resignation of Director Arthur Shorr on November 30, the Board's zone five seat is currently vacant. However, applicants are being accepted until 5 p.m. Jan. 5. (See the zone boundaries by visiting our interactive Hummingbird map.)

Interested residents are asked to submit a cover letter and résumé to Desert Healthcare District & Foundation CEO Chris Christensen to be considered for the Board seat. Applications may be submitted by email to info@dhcd.org. Interviews will be conducted by the Board at a special public meeting with the possible appointment of a new Director on Jan. 8.