Three candidates are vying for the lone seat in Zone 3 of the Desert Healthcare District in the Nov. 3 election. Mark Mathews currently holds the seat but announced earlier this month that he is retiring after 23 years of service to the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation.

He had qualified for the ballot before announcing his retirement so his name will remain on the ballot.

Zone 3 is the only zone on the ballot. Those seeking the seat are Kristal Granada, a CEO; Carmina Zavala, a mental health professional; and Joseph Paul Pradetto II. Former Cathedral City Councilman Shelley Kaplan qualified for the ballot but withdrew his name. His name will, however, remain on the ballot. He also sought a seat to the board in November 2018 but lost to Evett PerezGil.

Les Zendle is unopposed in his bid for re-election in Zone 1.

In Zone 5, Arthur Shorr is also unopposed in his quest for another term.

In Zone 7, Leticia De Lara is unopposed in her bid for another term and is not on the ballot.

The Desert Healthcare District consists of seven zones covering the Coachella Valley. Each zone has a population of about 60,000 residents, and is represented by a director on the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation Board. On Oct. 22, 2019, the Board unanimously approved the “Cholla 2” map, completing a public process that began in early 2019 to redraw the District and include the newly annexed area east of Cook Street.

Its vision is to connecting Coachella Valley residents to health and wellness services and programs through philanthropy, health facilities, information and community education, and public policy.

 

 

 

 

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  • Candidate: Shutterstock