Akkerman Makes Second Bid for City Council

Gregg Akkerman Announces Campaign Kickoff Event for Palm Desert City Council

PALM DESERT — Gregg Akkerman, a retired university professor with a Doctorate Degree in the Humanities from the University of Northern Colorado, on Monday officially kicked off his campaign for a seat on the City Council here representing District 2.

He also ran unsuccessfully in 2022. He was one of five people seeing a seat in District 2. That’s when Palm Desert was comprised of only two geographical districts.

On Jan. 25 this year, the Palm Desert City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1406 establishing five single-member council districts. The incumbent council members will continue to serve and complete their existing terms.

The transition to single-member council districts will commence with the General Municipal Election of Nov. 5, 2024, for the election of three members of City Council representing Districts 1, 2, and 3. The transition will be complete following the November 2026 election for two members of City Council representing Districts 4 and 5. You can learn more about the redistricting process by visiting www.redistrictpd.org, including an interactive map where you can locate your district.

Click here to access the District Locator Interactive Map.

The official nomination period opens July 15, 2024, and closes on Aug. 9. If an incumbent fails to file by the deadline, the nomination period will be extended through August 14, 2024. Please note that the extension period would only apply to District 1 as no other district has an incumbent member.

Others who have expressed an interest in the District 2 seat include: Jan Harnik, Kathleen Kelly, Faith Messenger and Joe Pradetto.

As a small business owner, former university professor, and engaged resident who serves on the Parks and Recreation and Civic Engagement committees, Akkerman is devoted to the future of Palm Desert and its residents.

In announcing the campaign, Akkerman said, “I am excited and humbled to announce my campaign for Palm Desert City Council in District 2. Growing up in a working-class family, I never thought I’d find myself running for office. … I’m not a politician. I’m a small business owner, educator, and family man who is committed to serving my community and ensuring the best for Palm Desert’s residents.”

It’s time for a new generation of Palm Desert leaders who will respect our past while including ALL OF US in a better future, Akkerman said.

“We know that what Palm Desert needs is water conservation over surf parks; affordable housing to reduce homelessness; and a focus on local business and education that reduces crime, strengthens opportunity, and keeps our families safe,”.

Akkerman said he’s running for City Council because the community needs new leadership that’s ready to bring common-sense solutions and prioritize the needs of our neighborhoods. He said he looks forward to meeting with residents on the campaign trail.

Akkerman will host an official campaign kickoff event on Wednesday, May 1 at 5:30 p.m. at the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce, 72559 Hwy 111, Palm Desert. Light food and refreshments will be provided. The event is open to the public and attendees are encouraged to RSVP at info@greggakkerman.com.

To learn more, visit www.GreggAkkerman.com.