Candidate forum hosted in Palm Desert with new districts up for election

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Desert City Council candidates are took the stage Tuesday night.

The Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce (PDACC) hosted the event at the Family YMCA of the Desert at 43930 San Pablo Avenue. Admission was free and open to the public.

The City of Palm Desert began transitioning to a five district system with the 2024 election. The transition began with the 2024 general election, when seats were filled for Districts 1, 2, and 3; 4 and 5 are on the ballot this year.

As it stands, Mayor Evan Trubee and Jan Harnik serve as at-large members on the council. After the 2026 election, all sitting council members will have a district and re-districting will be complete.

The candidates include the following:

• District 4
  • Jonathon Polly
  • Evan Trubee (incumbent)
• District 5
  • John Greenwood
  • Ralph Perry

A substantial crowd of interested voters filled the seats on Tuesday. Many engaged in lively conversations with the candidates before each candidate sat down to answer a number of questions. Three of the four candidates were in attendance; Polly, running for a seat in District 4, was sick and unable to attend.

Each candidate introduced themselves before responding to a series of questions selected in advance from submissions received from members of the community.

All four candidates were asked the same questions and provided equal time to respond. Topics focused on issues affecting Palm Desert residents, businesses and the future of the community, giving voters an opportunity to hear the candidates' perspectives, priorities and approaches to serving on the City Council.

For Palm Desert residents: you can learn more about the redistricting process and find your electoral district by visiting this website.

We're speaking with Palm Desert residents about the candidate forum this evening; we'll also be speaking with the candidates running. Stay with us for our full report at 10 and 11.