Palm Springs Considers Major Change to How Mayor Is Selected

The City of Palm Springs is considering a major change to how its mayor is selected — and the decision could shift power back to voters.

City Council members are set to discuss the proposal at their next meeting, where they’ll weigh whether to move away from the current rotating system and return to a directly elected mayor.

Since 2018, Palm Springs has used a system where council members rotate into the mayor role each year. Now, some city leaders are proposing a return to an at-large elected mayor who would serve a longer term.

Supporters of the change say it would provide consistency and stronger leadership for the city. They argue a multi-year term would allow a mayor to better represent Palm Springs and follow through on long-term goals.

Councilmember Rhonda Hart says residents have expressed interest in having a direct say in who serves as mayor and want more continuity in the role.

Others agree the issue should ultimately go to voters.

However, not everyone supports the change.

Critics point to concerns outlined in a city staff report, including potential legal challenges under the California Voting Rights Act. Some former officials argue the proposal could open the city up to lawsuits and may not reflect the best interests of residents.

There are also concerns about campaign costs under an at-large system, with some warning that citywide races could favor candidates with more financial resources, potentially limiting access for candidates from less affluent areas.

City leaders are expected to review multiple options during the meeting, but officials say a “strong mayor” system — where the mayor takes on expanded executive powers — is not currently being considered.

The discussion is expected to be the first step in what could become a ballot measure, allowing voters to ultimately decide how Palm Springs selects its mayor.

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