Walmart closer to building in Desert Hot Springs

Walmart is a step closer to building a supercenter in Desert Hot Springs.

The city is moving forward with a bid to hire a planning consultant for the project.

Walmart has already purchased land on Palm Drive and completed an environmental analysis, according to Mayor Adam Sanchez.

The next step is getting approval from the planning commission.

Mayor Sanchez says the big box store will not only be an added convenience to residents but also help with the city’s financial troubles.

“Many of our tax dollars are spent outside of the city, we we need the retail dollars, the sales tax and that will pump in about $300,000 on a yearly bases to the city’s coffers,” said Sanchez.

Sanchez expects the planning commissions recommendations to come before the city council by the end of the year.

If approved, Walmart could open by the end of 2016.