Former Rancho Mirage Councilor Dana Hobart Passes

Longtime Public Servant Dana Hobart Dies

RANCHO MIRAGE — Former Rancho Mirage City Councilmember G. Dana Hobart, is being remembered as a friend, mentor, and civic leader. Hobart, died Saturday at age 93

“His loss will be felt by the entire Coachella Valley,” Mayor Ted Weill told Uken Report. Yesterday, we lost not just a statesman, but a true friend.

Hobart, an attorney, was first elected to the City Council in 2002. His near 20-year reign ended when he stepped down in November 2021, to spend more time with family. His term was scheduled to end in November 2022.

“Dana Hobart was a pillar of Rancho Mirage — a man of vision, integrity, and tireless dedication,” Weill said in a tribute to Hobart. “His decades of public service left a lasting impact on our city through thoughtful leadership, bold action, and a genuine love for the community he served. From undergrounding utility lines to strengthening city finances and championing civic initiatives like the observatory and amphitheater and the Rancho Mirage dog park, Dana shaped a better future for all of us.

“But to me, Dana was more than a leader—he was a mentor and a dear friend. Ours was a friendship built over many years, through countless conversations, shared values, and a mutual commitment to public service. Dana saw something in me before I fully saw it in myself. He encouraged me—persistently, sincerely—to get involved in local government. He believed in thoughtful, dedicated leadership, and he believed I had what it took to serve. It was his unwavering support and quiet persuasion that inspired me to run for City Council and ultimately serve as his colleague.

“Working alongside Dana was one of the greatest honors of my life. His passion was contagious. His intellect was sharp. His principles never wavered. Even in the most difficult decisions, Dana approached public service with humility and the conviction that government must always serve the people—not politics, not special interests, but the people.

“His legacy is etched in the very fabric of our city, but his impact reaches even further—in the leaders he inspired, the friendships he nurtured, and the example he set,”

Hobart spearheaded the city’s decision to pull out of the CV Link – a $100 million 40-mile biking, jogging, walking and golf cart path that Coachella Valley Association of Governments planned to connect with all of the cities.

The initial proposal from CVAG would have brought CV Link onto Highway 111 in Rancho Mirage, which council members said was a safety concern.

Ultimately, the council put the question of whether to participate in CV Link to a vote of its residents. They rejected having the project come through Rancho Mirage.

Hobart’s opposition to CV Link strained his relationships with some, but he pressed forward believing it was the right decision for Rancho Mirage.

Mayor Pro Tem Dana Hobart Lynn Mallotto told Uken Report that Hobart was a “Rancho Mirage fixture for decades.”

“He was a man that served tirelessly for his community.  He served with passion, tremendous insight and most importantly, integrity,” she said.  He fought fiercely on issues that were paramount to Rancho Mirage residents that voiced concerns. He listened to the constituents – both residents and business owners. Whether it was a minor neighborhood issue, a ballot measure or a negative opinion, Dana graciously thanked the residents and business owners for their input. Dana Hobart also took an opportunity to share all sides of the issue so residents could make an informed decision, especially if negative rhetoric influenced an individual’s perspective.  Dana always had his facts to back up his position, and with the facts before an individual, this often changed their viewpoint.

Hobart’s accomplishments and contributions were many, Mallotto said.

“Dana Hobart served with several city councils over the years accomplishing and contributing to the City of Rancho Mirage we know today.  The amphitheater, the dog park, the undergrounding of utilities.  Working with community leader Marilyn Bauer to establish the observatory at the Rancho Mirage Library.  Dana’s focus extended far beyond city initiatives and his vision for a financially sound city was paramount for the residents.

“Dana knew the value of community involvement, encouraging residents to volunteer for a commission or to be part of the solution confronting the community.   I moved back to Rancho Mirage from Cathedral City in 2003.  I lived across the street and four doors to the north of Dana and Vicki Hobart.  He welcomed me to the neighborhood and was so proud to share that the undergrounding of utilities was taking place at that time. Dana knew I worked for the City of Cathedral City at that time and often stated he would like to see me on a Rancho Mirage commission.  His daily walks with his dogs were timely giving us the opportunity to have many a discussion in my driveway of current events on a valley, regional or national level or the history of Rancho Mirage.  He was a great proponent of democracy and our Constitution.  He treasured both as the north star for society.   Though we did not agree on all points, he respected my thoughts and opinions.  In all transparency he changed my perspective on some issues, as well.

Two months ago, Dana visited City Hall, greeted with warmth, hugs and the respect of employees.  He had deep concern and care for all those that served Rancho Mirage.  This was his extended family.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.