Cathedral City Fined $30,000 for Misuse of Public Funds in Measure B Mailers

Cathedral City has been fined $30,000 by the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) for violating state law by using public funds to promote a ballot measure.

The controversy centers around Measure B, which was approved by voters during a special election in March 2021. The measure imposed stricter rules on short-term vacation rentals (STVRs) and aimed to phase out most of them by 2023.

Ahead of the vote, Cathedral City mailed informational flyers and published content online about the measure. However, critics argued the materials unfairly promoted the measure’s passage rather than remaining neutral.

Opponents filed a formal complaint with the FPPC, alleging that the city crossed the legal line by using taxpayer dollars to influence the election outcome.

The FPPC agreed, issuing the $30,000 fine and concluding that the city’s communication efforts amounted to advocacy in violation of California law.

Measure B was part of Cathedral City’s broader effort to address neighborhood complaints and safety concerns related to STVRs. While the measure passed, this enforcement action serves as a reminder of the strict boundaries public agencies must follow when informing voters.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.