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

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

The Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce (PDACC) is hosting the event at the Family YMCA of the Desert at 43930 San Pablo Avenue. Admission is free and open to the public. The event runs from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

The City of Palm Desert went from a two district system to a five district system starting 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

Each candidate will have an opportunity to introduce themselves before responding to a series of questions selected in advance from submissions received from members of the community.

All four candidates will be asked the same questions and provided equal time to respond. Topics will focus 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.

Each candidate will also receive time at the conclusion of the forum to provide a closing statement.

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.