News
Operation Relentless Sun Continues As Summer Approaches
Tonight, the Palm Springs City Council will vote on whether to allow a homeless shelter to open overnight as we approach the summer heat. Earlier this year, the Palm Springs Police Department launched Operation Relentless Sun, an effort to clear the streets.
“We’re just trying to make sure that we can do whatever we can to help them either get on their feet or enforce laws when they break the laws or deter crimes from happening.” says Lieutenant Mike Villegas of the Palm Springs Police Department.
Operation Relentless Sun was originally created to combat a growing homeless population in the City of Palm Springs, as well to provide them with resources and hopefully reconnect them with family and friends.
“The whole intention behind this is to get a control of the homeless issues that is happening here in the City of Palm Springs that are impacting residents, businesses, and pretty much the entire community.” says Lieutenant Villegas.
The operation started on February 1st, with officers driving around the city finding what they like to call “hot spots” and identifying who stayed in these areas. One being on Ramon Rd. and Crossley, where there were about 30 tents propped up on the sidewalks.
“It took us about a month before we were able to work with a lot of the homeless people there because it became a public safety hazard. People were defecating and would urinate on the sidewalks, there was drug use and stuff. So working with them, and every day staying on top of them, we were finally able to clean that area up.”
But after identifying a homeless individual, the department does their best to get them help.
“Our city is currently working to try to get a navigation center on the North side of Palm Springs open, but obviously we’re looking at something sooner. They’re also looking at putting in emergency shelter, so we can get beds so we can help some of these homeless people out there too, just to get them resources.”
Even with the Access Center in the City of Palm Springs, Lieutenant Villegas says there’s a bigger issue.
“The bigger issue is that we just don’t have enough resources as far as navigation centers or shelters or beds to provide for the homeless. We have one here in the City of Palm Springs, our Access Center which is just outside of the police department, there’s only 15 beds there.”
The City Council is scheduled to vote tonight, on whether to allow the access center to open overnights.
By: Tiani Jadulang
April 27, 2023
Latest Instagram Posts
An anti-nepotism rule will be discussed and voted on at tonight’s Coachella City Council meeting - that would ban city council members from appointing their own family members or household members to commissions and committees. Tune in to our 8:30 p.m newscast and our socials and website as our @newsbyalondra brings us the latest details on that final vote.
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What’s your favorite NFL team?
A major cleanup is underway after powerful waves damaged 14 beachfront homes near Capistrano Beach in Orange County. Residents are concerned their homes could remain vulnerable without protective measures in place. Crews are clearing debris, while efforts to bring in protective boulders were delayed by high tide. #California #OrangeCounty #CapistranoBeach #CoastalWaves #Beachfront #WeatherNews
Two new Girl Scout cookies are coming in 2027 🍪 Meet Sparkables: a crunchy oatmeal cookie with chocolate chips and colorful sprinkles, developed with Partake in a facility designed to avoid the nine major food allergens. And for the pups: Patch Pals 🐾 Soft-baked, blueberry muffin-flavored dog cookies in four adorable designs. Both will be available online beginning in January. Which one are you most excited to try? #GirlScouts #GirlScoutCookies #NewCookies #DogTreats #FoodAllergyFriendly #CookieSeason
It’s more than just dancing — it’s fitness, confidence and community. A Coachella Valley dance studio is helping adults move their bodies, have fun and step into their power, one class at a time. And during Beyoncé’s birthday week, the energy was turned all the way up. “When in doubt, twerk it out.” See how VXN Worldwide Dance Company is getting the Valley moving — and building confidence along the way. Read more at NBCPalmSprings.com. #CoachellaValley #PalmSprings #Dance #Fitness #Community NBCPalmSprings
☕️ Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. What are you going to be for Halloween? 🎃
Labor Day traffic is picking up in Palm Springs. If you’re heading out, our Maria Noble Valdez has what you can expect on the roads here. Be sure to stay tuned with NBC Palm Springs and nbcpalmsprings.com for more Labor Day coverage #LaborDay #LaborDayTraffic #PalmSprings #TrafficUpdate #i10
Who makes the NBC Top 3, winner will be announced Sunday night on NBC Palm Springs, with the player who makes the number one spot winning a $250 prize from @hondaofthedesert! Comment below if it will be 1) Cael Woody with the dot under pressure, 2) Tatum Webster with the pass breakup, 3) Ivan Garza with the rushing TD, 4) Sean Meza with the toe tap, or 5) Jesus. Valenzuela with the strong hands #fypage #fridaynightlights #top3 #hondaofthedesert
Me On A Plate is back! We head over to @tacquila_ps to talk to chef David Arreguin about his love of spice, being the seventh of nine children, and his drive to always follow his passion. Check it out now on our website nbcpalmsprings.com
Nearly a year after wildfires tore through Mountain Center, the scars are still visible along the Palms to Pines Highway. Now, fire crews are working to repair those burn areas and reduce the risk of flooding, erosion and mudslides when heavy rain arrives. The work includes fire-line suppression repairs, water bars and other measures designed to slow rainwater and keep burned soil from washing away. CAL FIRE Riverside County Battalion Chief Ryan Lubin says the steep terrain, dry brush and limited access continue to create challenges for mountain communities. With El Niño conditions expected to bring periods of heavy rain, officials say preparing now could help protect homes and communities from the aftermath of wildfire. The message from firefighters: preparation can save lives. Read the full story at NBCPalmSprings.com. #MountainCenter #Highway74 #PalmsToPines #CALFIRE #Wildfire WildfireRecovery FireSafety CoachellaValley SanJacintoMountains