Coachella City Council to Meet for First Time Since Mayor’s Arrest — But His Case Isn’t on the Agenda

The Coachella City Council is preparing for its first meeting since Mayor Steven Hernandez’s arrest — but one notable omission is raising questions.

City officials confirm the mayor and his ongoing legal case will not be discussed during tonight’s meeting.

Hernandez was arrested and indicted last month on multiple felony charges, including conflict of interest and perjury. Prosecutors allege he voted on city contracts that could have personally benefited him. Despite those charges, Hernandez still holds the title of Coachella’s mayor.

Tonight’s council agenda does include a closed session item listed as “anticipated litigation,” though it remains unclear what that refers to — or whether it’s connected to Hernandez’s case.

For now, city business is expected to continue as usual, with the mayor not in attendance. Council members will move forward with other city matters as the legal process unfolds.

The regular meeting begins at 6 p.m. at Coachella City Hall. We'll be present at the meeting and bring you all the latest updates.