HomeMy WebLinkAboutNon AgendaFrom:City of Palm Springs
To:City Clerk
Subject:*NEW SUBMISSION* Submit Public Comment to the City of Palm Springs
Date:Wednesday, December 6, 2023 9:13:50 PM
Submit Public Comment to the City of Palm Springs
Submission #:2865922
IP Address:76.93.232.179
Submission Date:12/06/2023 9:13
Survey Time:1 minute, 1 second
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Full Name/Nombre
Donald Utterback
City of Residence/Ciudad de residencia
palm springs,
Phone (optional) /Teléfono (opcional)
(760) 219-0401
Email (optional/opcional)
utterback_donald@yahoo.com
Your Comments/Sus comentarios
where is the trolley? Why is it gone?
Thank you,
City of Palm Springs
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12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
From:Cecilia L
To:Lauren Wolfer; Alyssa Chavez; CityManager; City Clerk
Subject:Fwd: Justice for Palm Springs Section 14 Survivors
Date:Wednesday, November 29, 2023 6:10:59 PM
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unless you are sure the content is safe.
To whom it may concern,
My name is Cecilia A. Lemus, I am a resident of Indio, California. Being born and raised in
the eastern Coachella Valley, I have always thought of Palm Springs as Hollywood's favorite
escape from the fast paced city life. My thoughts would travel to that of luxury, wealth, spas,
and private parties. Until I heard the hidden history of the destruction of Section 14. The
stories of the survivors and descendants of this horrific city-engineering holocaust were
moving. Palm Springs has come a long way in recognizing its shameful destruction of Section
14 due to the pressures received over this last year(s). I know that California, and Palm
Springs specifically, can do more (and is responsible) for their quest in justice and racial
healing. Please follow through on the commitment you made in the wake of the city's
investigation and commit your office's resources and power to advancing the requests of the
Section 14 survivors and descendants without any further delay.
Sincerely,
Cecilia A. Lemus
12/04/2023
Public Comment
From:Leonel
To:Brent Rasi
Date:Wednesday, November 22, 2023 7:53:31 AM
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unless you are sure the content is safe.
Hello Brent and my name is Leonel Ayala and I just want to say how happy I am that Palm
Springs has a program that helps those in need of rental assistance help, and me and my mom
Olga Lechuga, who I care for at home, really appreciate it more than you know. It wasn't that
hard to get approved, as I asked and received and we are forever greatful and I'm here for the
program if it ever needs anything, to do labor (painting) or what have you, as a way to show
my thanks, sincerely, Leonel and Olga.
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
From:Kevin
To:Brent Rasi
Subject:Rental Assistance
Date:Monday, November 13, 2023 3:13:39 PM
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unless you are sure the content is safe.
Hi Brent good afternoon,
My name is Kevin Moss and I recently received rental assistance from the City of Palm
Springs, processed by Ariel Tollfree-Williams. She was such a delight to work with and made
the application process as easy as possible. We both felt very comfortable around her and felt
genuine concern for our wellbeing and to keep us from loosing our apartment. Both myself
and Brandon Lesane are very much appreciative of the help we have received.
We have received rental assistance and utility assistance as well, with a total of 4 months.
The timeframe of getting help and assistance form your department, took about three weeks to
confirm for the first month of October. Then a week later confirming the extended rental and
utility assistance through the months of November, December and January.
We can’t thank you enough for all the help we have received and I hope this email helps to
let you know how very much we appreciated your services and housing assistance. Thanks
again!
Best Regards
Kevin
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
The City of Palm Springs
Rent and Utility Assistance Program
Recipient Testimonies :
My sincerest gratitude goes out to this program and its affiliates…
I’m a 33-year-old male who found himself facing homelessness in 2023 after leaving
San Diego due to exorbitant housing costs. The SoCal rental market’s strict requirements
with demanding >700 credit scores and monthly income multiples. It truly makes even
finding a home to rent feel like an impossible task. I had a rapidly failing business as a
result of the COVID pandemic. Like many others in the state was living mainly off my
saving and more personally by means the of an inheritance from my recently deceased
Father in Nov. 2019.
I was paying almost 4k per month at my short term (six-month rental) home in Grant
Hill (a neighborhood just north of downtown San Diego. I made the decision without
much choice to move inland with hopes of finding something more maintainable. Much to
my surprise I couldn’t find anything long term to rent. The struggling and despair
continued for nearly eight months. I began to search for reason to wake up and continue
each day, and by night sleeping in my car and the occasional strangers couch was my bleak
reality. Completely losing my last bit of hope, with rejections from 8-10 rental agencies per
week throughout Palm Springs. I felt like I was chasing shadows until the end of October
this year. I refused to give up when God insisted I woke up each day with blood in my
veins in love in my heart.
One evening in late October, after viewing a sister property I arrived at The 29
Hundred Apartments. Ruth the leasing agent actually heard me…her empathy and
understanding of where I was in my journey coupled with the kindness to meet me where I
was in that moment without judgement by giving me respect was enough to make me cry.
That was the first time in months I had felt heard by someone who was willing to help me
vs. judge me. She provided me with some information and encouraged me to apply for the
newest rent and utility program. I filled out and submitted my forms online. It was a Friday
and so I did my diligence by visiting the City office in person the following Monday to
insure the required documents were received. A smiling, courteous and informative
woman named Ariel the housing services administrator. After my interview with her, a
decision was made that same day. The 29 Hundred Apartments became my new place to
call home, at last piece of mind with shelter.
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
Having a roof over one’s head should be a right to every citizen in this country. The
safety and good health of a human is necessary to ensure the survival of that human. The
help from this Palm Springs housing association has re-transformed my life. It provides me
with the stability I needed to secure a job and regain my footing. To have the ability to get
ahead and not feel as though I’m constantly trying to tread water. The peace of mind that
has come with having a home was and is truly life-changing.
This newfound stability also re-ignited an old passion within me. The homeless
community has grown and is increasing by the day. Seeing what others are going through
with a Birds Eye compelled me to also pour and express my experiences, struggles, and
hopes into a series of artworks. Each piece individually depicts the true and harsh reality of
the homeless pandemic. A crisis driven by greedy landlords and a severe lack of housing
for those facing financial difficulties.
My journey wasn’t just about overcoming personal obstacles; it became a testament to
resilience, empathy, and the transformative power of compassion. It showed that even in
the darkest times, a helping hand and understanding can make an incredible difference in
someone’s life. My artworks aid as a voice for countless others going through similar
challenges, sparking conversations and fostering empathy among those who view them. It is
my hope to continue helping raise awareness by advocating for change in housing policies.
Best,
PS. PLEASE SEE ATTACHED ARTWORK
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
From:celeste
To:Brent Rasi
Cc:Ariel Tolefree-Williams; Roman Ruiz
Subject:Re: Ariel Tolefree and Roman Ruiz
Date:Monday, November 27, 2023 5:36:23 PM
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments
unless you are sure the content is safe.
Dear Brent,
I’m writing to let you know that I walked into City Hall last Monday towards the end of
the day. My friend Karen was also with me..
We were directed to the office for social services/ housing and had the greatest
experience meeting Ariel and Roman.
We both have fallen upon Finacial hardships, mine due to having 7 surgeries in the
past 2 years…
After I moved out of my last apartment, I’ve tried everything possible, consistently
since April to rent a modest studio apartment.
Corporate has taken over the PS renters Market and with low inventory, and higher
credit expectations, I spent over $500.00 in application fees and almost had given up
hope.
At 7:35 a.m. on Tuesday after meeting Ariel and Roman at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, she
had an apartment lead and followed up via email and making phone calls throughout
the day with the Management Company.
By Wednesday, she had secured a rental for me, much to my surprise. I’ve never met
two kinder people that are great listeners, paying attention to details, while also being
incredibly respectful, and genuinely compassionate.
This experience comes after very trying times, with no resources left to work with.
I signed a lease to my new place and am forever grateful for this program and the
absolutely brilliant team working at City Hall.
Ariel has offered solutions for my friends situation as well. I can’t say enough to
express my gratitude and
have to say that this experience has saved my life in many ways.
I will highly recommend this program to others in hard times. They went above and
beyond anything I could have imagined.
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
All My Best,
Celeste
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
From:Anthony
To:Brent Rasi; Ariel Tolefree-Williams
Subject:Rental Assistance Program
Date:Thursday, November 16, 2023 12:10:28 PM
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments
unless you are sure the content is safe.
To City Council,
As a single individual trying to stay afloat during this inflation time in life, the rental
assistance program was a huge help, and a weight has been lifted from my shoulders. I really
appreciate the city's commitment in assisting their community and residents with this program
and keeping them in their homes. I spoke with Ariel when I called the city for the first time
when we got into October letting her know my situation and she was very responsive and
helpful letting me know she was going to send me the application and to turn it in as soon as
possible to get the process started. The application was very detailed and easy to fill out. After
spending all morning at the public library to print out documents that were asked, I met with
Ariel that same day to turn in my application. I wasn't sure how long the process would take
as i was worrying to receive an eviction notice but the process of getting the assistance was
very quick. It took a week or a week and half the most. I was happy and relieved that Ariel
was very nice and quick responding to my emails with my questions and seeing my rent being
taken care of in such a short period of time.
I really appreciate the assistance I've received from the city and program. I hope this program
continues to stay available for anyone who needs the help for their health and strength to
continue in a positive direction.
All the best
Sincerely,
Anthony
Get Outlook for iOS
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
From:zarifa
To:Brent Rasi
Subject:City of Palm Springs Rental and Utility Assistance
Date:Friday, November 10, 2023 10:37:16 AM
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments
unless you are sure the content is safe.
Ms. Ariel responded to my urgent need to engage my housing voucher, and benefit from utility assistance
with the urgency and care that was very comforting and encouraging. Without this program, I would NOT
have been able to make the move and improve my life. I have had a heart attack and am 75, she
demonstrated sincerity and care in capably addressing my timelines and resources. She is professional
and efficient and executing these delicate issues.
Thank you for letting me be heard.
Carolyn Live You .....Carpe Diem
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non-Agenda
From:Susan L
To:City Clerk
Subject:Move the ugly Marilyn statue
Date:Tuesday, December 19, 2023 2:34:36 PM
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unless you are sure the content is safe.
Move the Marilyn. How does this statue adhere to any HR regulations at the City of Palm
Springs. Leaving it in this prominent public place is at most promoting a mysoginistic
attitude, and is at least hypocritical.
First, what an ugly likeness of a gorgeous woman.
Second, basically it offends me that the PS City Council removed the Bogert statue but think
this one is OK. I guess offensiveness to women is not taken seriously. Legal action may ensue.
Third, not moving the ugly statue is disrespectful to the countless people who have contributed
financially to the museum and many other local organizations. It is they who have helped
make Palm Springs the fantastic community it is today. The statue, in its present location,
appears to be a rude gesture toward all of those people
Fourth, the refusal of the Council to find another more appropriate location is shortsighted and
offensive. It isn't this ugly Marilyn statue that attracts people to Palm Springs. Move it 200
feet and get it out of the direct path from Palm Canyon to the Museum. It will still be there for
people to ogle.
Respectfully,
Susan Lindsey Cohen, Architect
CA Lic # 23296
310.367.0431 mobile
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
From:zoltek
To:City Clerk
Subject:Public comment on resolution
Date:Thursday, December 14, 2023 10:09:04 PM
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments
unless you are sure the content is safe.
To the City Clerk of Palm Springs:
Please forward the following public comment to the Council members. Thank you.
*********
I wrote Councilmember Middleton that I thought it was a bad idea for the City Council to issue a
resolution in support of Israel -- and to comment on international affairs, generally speaking.
Now, I think my judgment have been confirmed by what has occurred in the aftermath of that
resolution. In its massive bombing of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, Israel is clearly guilty of war
crimes and crimes against humanity. 10-20,000 civilians have been killed, at least half of them
women and children (half of the population of Gaza is under 18 years old).
Schools, hospitals, mosques and churches (yes, there are Palestinian Christians; they're not all
Muslims) have been bombed. None of this has affected Hamas, which hides in underground
tunnels.
Children did not vote for Hamas, but the attitude of Israel appears to be that they are guilty and
deserve to die. Food, water, electricity, fuel and medicine have been cut off.
It's time for the City Council to issue a resolution calling for Israel to end the killing and obey
international law and humanitarian norms. After that, please -- no more resolutions on
international affairs.
Your truly,
Andrew Towne
1050 E. Ramon Rd. # 101
Palm Springs, CA 92264
(619) 517-2185
Sent with Proton Mail secure email.
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
From:Jeffrey Bernstein
To:City Clerk
Subject:Fwd: I am paying attention to utility greed and incompetence.
Date:Wednesday, December 20, 2023 8:51:14 AM
Jeffrey Bernstein
Mayor
City of Palm Springs
cell: 442-305-9942
Jeffrey.Bernstein@palmspringsca.gov
City Hall is open Monday –Thursday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and closed on Fridays.
Begin forwarded message:
From: Megan Marrella <civicinput@newmode.org>
Subject: I am paying attention to utility greed and incompetence.
Date: December 19, 2023 at 10:50:24 PM PST
To: Jeffrey.Bernstein@palmspringsca.gov
Reply-To: MeganMarrella@gmail.com
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or
open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe.
Dear City Council Member Jeffrey Bernstein,
SoCal Edison wants to pad their pockets by taxing consumers–your constituents–
with an arbitrary and unfair Utility Tax. I understand they’ve hired a bunch of
lobbyists to get local cities to support the utility tax. This sort of special interest is
very upsetting to average voters like myself.
I trust that you would never support charging hardworking folks like me even
MORE for a basic necessity.
I urge you to take a stand against Edison and not fall for their manipulation.
Protect your constituents from this unquestionable abuse of their position and
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
their power.
Sincerely,
Megan Marrella
MeganMarrella@gmail.com 92264
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
From:Jeffrey Bernstein
To:City Clerk
Subject:Fwd: Utility bills are out of control
Date:Wednesday, December 20, 2023 8:51:23 AM
Jeffrey Bernstein
Mayor
City of Palm Springs
cell: 442-305-9942
Jeffrey.Bernstein@palmspringsca.gov
City Hall is open Monday –Thursday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and closed on Fridays.
Begin forwarded message:
From: Amy Penn <civicinput@newmode.org>
Subject: Utility bills are out of control
Date: December 19, 2023 at 10:50:12 PM PST
To: Jeffrey.Bernstein@palmspringsca.gov
Reply-To: penn@amypenn.com
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or
open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe.
Dear City Council Member Jeffrey Bernstein,
Southern California Edison is out of control. Every month, we consumers pay for
its incompetence and greed–more than $4 billion for its mismanagement of the
shuttered San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant (yeah, I’m paying attention).
Now, they want to charge the highest fixed charge Utility Tax in the nation. And
an Edison lobbyist is running around trying to drum up support from local elected
officials like you.
They’re going to charge me money before I even turn on the light switch, that’s
an outrage!
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
This tax would hurt California’s working class and elderly the most, especially
people who live in apartments and small homes. As you know, it’s already hard
enough to make ends meet, and a utility tax hurts people on fixed and limited
incomes even harder.
If asked, please do not sign on in support of the utility tax.
Your constituents are counting on your support.
Sincerely,
Amy Penn
penn@amypenn.com 92264
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
From:Jeffrey Bernstein
To:City Clerk
Subject:Fwd: Oppose the fixed rate Utility Tax
Date:Wednesday, December 20, 2023 8:51:31 AM
Jeffrey Bernstein
Mayor
City of Palm Springs
cell: 442-305-9942
Jeffrey.Bernstein@palmspringsca.gov
City Hall is open Monday –Thursday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. and closed on Fridays.
Begin forwarded message:
From: "\"Julia D'Elia\"" <civicinput@newmode.org>
Subject: Oppose the fixed rate Utility Tax
Date: December 19, 2023 at 10:48:35 PM PST
To: Jeffrey.Bernstein@palmspringsca.gov
Reply-To: Jade51453@gmail.com
NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or
open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe.
Dear City Council Member Jeffrey Bernstein,
California’s Utility Monopolies are taking greed to the next level. They’ve
already convinced our legislators to make every California ratepayer pay an
uncapped utility tax on their energy bill. Now, they are trying to drum up support
from local elected officials. It would be the largest utility tax in the nation, and
make consumers pay no matter how much energy they use.
I did my homework, and Edison’s annual gross profit in 2022 was $12.6
BILLION.
How much more abuse do we have to take from the utilities? They have caused
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda
blackouts and are still charging us for the San Onofre power plant mess. Their
mistakes cost taxpayers billions. Average people have had enough. We can’t
afford to pay for utility incompetence anymore.
Please do not sign your name in support of this deceptive and abusive utility tax.
Sincerely,
Julia D'Elia
Jade51453@gmail.com 92262
12/14/2023
Public Comment
Non Agenda