New Palm Springs City Council sworn in
Historic changes were made with the Palm Springs City Council Wednesday evening.
The two longest-serving councilmembers, Chris Mills and Ginny Foat, have retired and new councilmembers Christy Holstege and Lisa Middleton have been sworn in.
“I thought wow look at all she’s done. Are you going to take my whole speech probably,” said Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon.
Dozens of people thanked councilmembers Foat and Mills for their combined 30 years of service on the council.
“Thank you for your insight, your trust, your unwavering support for all these years and best wishes for a long and bright future,” said Eric Chiel, Executive Board Member at One PS.
“I want to thank you for allowing me the privilege to represent you for the last 16 years and in the future, we need to continue to look for leaders in our community. Have a passion to lead this city to greater things for all of us,” Mills said.
Foat received a special award from leaders of the cannabis industry. They say she helped grow that sector to where it is today. Foat ended her speech with advice for the two incoming council members.
“I wish you my best and despite all the accomplishments, we have left you a lot to do and to the residents of this city that you for the 14 years of your advice, your truth, and your support thank you,” Foat said.
With Lisa Middleton and Christy Holstege officially sworn in, the Palm Springs City Council is now the first ever all LGBT city council in the country.
“The kind of actions that made my election possible took place over the last 15-20 years in this city. I am thrilled to have an opportunity to represent Palm Springs and Palm Springs values throughout this state and throughout this country,” Middleton said.
“It takes a diverse voice. I work to make a living in Palm Springs. I want to raise kids here, and I think that’s important. I have to represent all of us, each and every one of us who lives in Palm Springs and I’m really looking forward to build a Palm Springs that works for all of us,” Holstege said.
Councilmember JR Roberts was appointed Mayor Pro Team of the council, taking over that spot from Ginny Foat.
