Indio Proposes New Ordinance to Address Vacant Buildings and Boost Downtown Business Growth

City officials in Indio are looking to move forward with a proposed ordinance aimed at addressing vacant and neglected buildings, a step they say could help attract more customers and new businesses to the downtown area.

Over the past several years, the City of Indio has focused on revitalizing its downtown core by supporting new local businesses and improving public spaces. Now, city leaders are turning their attention to long-standing vacant properties, which they describe as eyesores that can hinder further economic development.

City Council member Glenn Miller emphasized that unmaintained buildings pose both safety concerns and economic challenges. According to Miller, vacant structures that are not properly secured can deter potential tenants and investors who might otherwise be interested in opening businesses downtown.

Under the proposed ordinance, property owners would be required to maintain vacant buildings by ensuring they are secure, clean, and safe. This includes keeping doors and windows locked, maintaining alarms, and preventing unauthorized access. City officials say these measures would make properties more appealing to prospective tenants and help prevent misuse of the buildings.

Miller noted that the responsibility would fall on business owners, landlords, or property owners, with the city enforcing compliance while also offering support. “We want to make sure it happens,” he said, “but at the same time, we want to help property owners bring new businesses into their buildings. It helps them, it helps us, and it helps our community by bringing in jobs and economic growth.”

Local residents and business supporters see the proposal as a positive step. Caleb Calderon, who has lived in the Coachella Valley his entire life, believes the ordinance could benefit existing businesses while preserving the character of downtown Indio. He says revitalization efforts have already made a noticeable difference and that addressing vacant buildings is a necessary next step.

City officials say details of the ordinance will be discussed soon. According to Miller, the proposal is expected to be placed on the agenda for Indio’s next City Council meeting on the 14th, where council members will consider how best to move forward.

If approved, the ordinance could mark another milestone in Indio’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its downtown economy and improve the overall appearance and safety of the community.