COD Board of Trustees to use eminent domain to acquire mall for West Valley Campus

Today College of the Desert Board of Trustees unanimously agreed on using eminent domain to acquire the almost vacated Palm Springs Mall.

An attorney representing Palm Springs Mall owner, Haiming Tan, fought for the rights of the property at today’s hearing.

On behalf of the owner, Ronald Cole says he does not feel that the COD board is ready to make a final decision on eminent domain of the mall on Tahquitz Canyon, based on what he calls an inadequate offer.

“We don’t believe you’ve given a fair shot at negotiation,” said Cole in today’s hearing.

Lauri Aylaian, Palm Springs’ Director of Community and Economic Development says it’s time for action. She says the vacated land has resulted in over 650 complaint calls to Palm Springs Police from the community.

“You’ll see that the landscaping is dead and dying and that it is all together an eye sore in the community,” said Aylaian.

COD President, Dr. Joel Kinnamon says he is excited to finalize plans for the new west valley campus. A hospitality management program and film program will be introduced to the college.

Both parties say they are ready to move forward and make negotiations for the property.