Coachella City Council to Address Vacant Mayor Seat Publicly at April 8 Meeting

Coachella's City Council took its first formal step Wednesday night toward filling the mayor's seat, agreeing to place the topic on the agenda for their upcoming April 8 meeting. Council members stressed they want the process to be transparent as the city works through a sudden leadership change.

The meeting, held just one day after former Mayor Steven Hernandez pleaded guilty to a felony count of conflict of interest and resigned, began with a closed session before opening to the public at 6 p.m.

Hernandez admitted to entering into a contract tied to the Coachella Valley Association of Governments that benefited him financially, connected to the regional Housing First program. He stepped down shortly after entering his plea.

Under city rules, the council has 60 days to either appoint a new mayor or call for a special election. Wednesday's meeting did not include a decision on which direction the city will take, but by agreeing to publicly agenda the item for April 8, council members signaled they intend to keep residents informed as that choice takes shape.