Councilors Endorse Opponent of Palm Desert Mayor

Majority of City Council Does Not Support Re-election of Palm Desert Mayor

PALM DESERT — Karina Quintanilla is continuing to feel the fallout from a social media post she made about the “HATE” she has for the inclusion of “The Patriot Store,” which was featured in a local publication designed to promote El Paseo. She posted it under the banner of her role as mayor.

First, supporters of the store called on her to apologize, resign or be recalled. The mayor put a target on the backs of the store, the online publication, and the writer.

Then, in a direct shot across the bow of the Palm Desert mayor, who by the way is seeking re-election, the city issued a firmly worded news release saying the city “Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusivity.”

Now comes the disappointment and concern of her colleagues, albeit in a subtle way. Three of the five City Council members —Jan Harnik, Evan Trubee and Gina Nestande —are endorsing her opponent, Chris Scott.  Former mayor Sabby Jonathan is also endorsing Scott.

“I am endorsing Chris Scott for two primary reasons,” Harnik told Uken Report. “Palm Desert has always been a city that supports all businesses that operate within City guidelines and Palm Desert has been proud of its civility amongst the councilmembers.  Recently we have seen the opposite of that from the current District 1 representative. I believe Chris Scott has the integrity and demeanor to bring that back to our City”

Trubee said, “I am endorsing Chris Scott because I believe he is the best choice to guide Palm Desert to a safe, prosperous and harmonious future. He is an honest, hard-working family man whose roots run deep in our community. He understands what makes Palm Desert a great city and will be a solid leader for our residents.”

Nestande did not respond to a request for comment.

Former Palm Desert Mayor Sabby Jonathan minced no words in his endorsement for Scott. Jonathan said he has two reasons:

“I believe, and this is not a reflection on her personally, that Karina has been a disruptive influence on our Council, and in our City,” Jonathan said, “This has compromised both the Council’s and the staff’s ability to focus on the business of the City. And that, in turn, has hurt our residents and our businesses.

“I believe that Chris will be the polar opposite. I have spoken with him at length and am convinced that he will bring a level of respect and professionalism that is sorely needed on Council, and that he will be laser-focused on the issues that matter most to our residents and businesses.  In short, he will be a constructive and positive force on Council, which is what we very much need at this time.”

Quintanilla took down the post. She has never apologized.

Quintanilla has the right to free speech. She does not have the right to speak on behalf of the city.

The bigger question is whether Palm Desert needs an individual who spews HATE.