Palm Springs homeowners raise concerns over proposed utility undergrounding project, assessments reaching nearly $139K

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Some homeowners in Palm Springs' Old Las Palmas neighborhood are raising concerns over a proposed utility undergrounding project that could leave property owners facing assessments of more than $100,000.

According to residents, proposed assessments in District 1 range from approximately $92,000 to $139,000 per parcel, not including financing costs or the additional expense of connecting individual homes to the underground utility system.

Some longtime homeowners and retirees say the potential financial burden could make it difficult to remain in their homes.

Residents are now calling on the Palm Springs City Council to postpone an October 28 assessment hearing, giving property owners more time to review the project's costs, financing options, construction impacts and supporting documents before ballots are counted.

Among those raising concerns are residents who say they have lived in the neighborhood for decades, including one homeowner who says he already paid to have the utility lines serving his property placed underground.

News Channel 3 is working to hear directly from affected homeowners and city officials about the proposed project, how assessments are calculated and what options may be available to residents.

News Channel 3's Raymond Kalra is getting answers from homeowners and city officials. Watch his full report tonight at 6 p.m. on News Channel 3.

Stay with News Channel 3 for continuing coverage.