Daniel Pitts Challenges Incumbent in District 2

DESERT HOT SPRINGS — Following are Daniel Pitts’ responses to Uken Report’s Questionnaire.

UR: Age and occupation:

Daniel Pitts: 54, Board Certified Functional Health Consultant and Reflexologist Practitioner.

UR: Who or what motivated you to run for the City Council/Mayor?

Daniel Pitts: I see tremendous potential for Desert Hot Springs. However, if we continue to elect the same politicians, we can expect to see the same results. I am bringing a new vision, a fresh perspective, and a new set of eyes to the table. Many neighbors and supporters have encouraged me to run for City Council, recognizing what I accomplished while leading our local HOA.

UR: How long have you lived in DHS full time?

Daniel Pitts: Since 2015.

UR: What is your No. 1 priority for the city?

Daniel Pitts: I have four main priorities that I would like to see added for the city. My vision includes:: creating a safer environment, addressing homelessness, ensuring responsible budgeting, and promoting economic development. With my passion and experience, I am committed to MOVING DHS FORWARD.

UR: What makes you a better candidate than your opponents?

Daniel Pitts: I truly have the experience that matters. I am a seasoned public safety manager with over ten years of experience leading diverse cities throughout California. My collaborative efforts with local Sheriff Departments have significantly enhanced community safety and aesthetics, helping to maintain high property values. In addition to my public safety credentials, I have served as a Vice President and Regional Manager, overseeing the success of various community and corporate banking centers.

My dedication to community service extends beyond my professional life. I have played a vital role as a Board Member for the Town of Yucca Valley’s Chamber of Commerce, where I promoted local businesses. Additionally, I led Diversity DHS, a nonprofit organization committed to celebrating and advocating for diversity within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

As the former President of the Mountain View Homeowners Association in Desert Hot Springs, I implemented community programs that fostered connectivity among residents.

I am running as a nonpartisan candidate focused on enhancing Desert Hot Springs. My vision includes a four-part plan: creating a safer environment, addressing homelessness, ensuring responsible budgeting, and promoting economic development. With my passion and experience, I am committed to MOVING DHS FORWARD.

UR: Do you see yourself as a team player or an individual who will fight for your opinion? Why?

Daniel Pitts: I see myself as a leader who serves as the residents’ voice and helps carry that message forward to shape the people’s agenda. A great leader also knows how and when to foster collaborative relationships with other policymakers to ensure that progress is made smoothly and effectively.

UR: How do you deal with conflict? Give us an example.

Daniel Pitts: As a certified Advanced Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) professional, also known as a mediator, since 2006 with the Los Angeles County Bar Association, I frequently draw on these skills to help resolve conflicts.

During my time serving as President of our HOA board, I encountered various opinions and perspectives from both residents and fellow board members. On several occasions, I needed to step in to help reframe the issues between conflicting parties and assist in reaching acceptable resolutions for everyone involved.

UR: Does DHS need to change the way it’s been doing business? Change its image? If so, in what way?

Daniel Pitts: Absolutely, the city needs to be reimagined in many ways, particularly regarding economic development and addressing the lack of business growth. As a business advocate and a small business owner myself, I believe that businesses are the heartbeat of any community.

We should take a page from our neighboring city of Banning, which is successfully providing business incentives to attract new companies. Many businesses want to settle in Desert Hot Springs and call it home, but high commercial rents often drive them away.

I also believe that as city leaders, we need to collaborate with commercial landlords on Palm and Pierson, the downtown area, and the Highway 62 and Pierson corridor. By creating financial incentives for landlords, we can encourage them to work with potential new business tenants.

UR: In what areas does the city need to grow, if it does, and how will you make that happen?

Daniel Pitts: Our community needs more! To enhance Desert Hot Springs, we aim to attract a wider variety of retail shops, restaurants, and family-centered entertainment. This may include establishing a family arcade activity center and possibly a movie theater, as well as developing a robust tourism program. A family-first focus is crucial. Our local children represent the future of the community, and it’s essential that we create an environment where they can thrive. Let’s work together to make Desert Hot Springs a better place for all.