John Thatcher Seeks DHS City Council Seat

John Thatcher to Run for Desert Hot Springs, City Council, District Four

DESERT HOT SPRINGS — John Thatcher, a hotelier in Desert Hot Springs, and a public relations practitioner said he plans to apply his experience and skills for the betterment of the community.

Thatcher, an innkeeper at Desert Hot Springs Inn, is seeking the District 4 seat in the city, which is the surrounding neighborhoods of Hacienda Avenue from Verbena to Long Canyon, and sections of Palm Drive to Camino Aventura.

“As a hotelier at Desert Hot Springs Inn, I’ve learned over the years that we have great potential here in the city for increased tourism,” Thatcher said in a statement. “I’ve had the opportunity to interview guests of the hotel and discover the nature of our tourism industry. I want to apply that knowledge to attract more tourists, and ultimately more transient occupancy taxes (TOT).”

Prior to moving to the desert in 2013, Thatcher actively worked in marketing, public relations and advertising in Orange County, Calif.

“I’ve enjoyed decades of working with businesses and government agencies, to increase revenue, and deal with issues that are critical to the organization. These experiences gave me insight on best practices, and how to solve challenges, and obtain positive outcomes. I believe that this knowledge will be valuable to our city.”

Thatcher’s priori es are economic development, tourism, and crime.

“We have the opportunity to bring more businesses to Desert Hot Springs, which supports our tourism industry, and with the increase in our tax base, our community can focus on public safety and enjoy more programs and opportunities for our citizens.”

Thatcher earned his bachelor’s degree from Chapman University, majoring in communications and public relations.

On April 5, 2022, the City Council adopted Ordinance 754 approving Map 1.1 as the final district map and establishing a by-district election process commencing with the November 8, 2022 General Municipal Election. Members of the City Council shall be elected by districts 1, 2, 3, and 4, with one (1) mayor elected at-large. Current Mayor Scott Mattas and current Councilmember Russell Betts are running for mayor in November.

Members of the City Council from Council Districts 1 and 3 shall be elected on a by-district basis began with the Nov. 8, 2022, General Municipal Election and every four years thereafter.

Members of the City Council from Council Districts 2 and 4 shall be elected on a by-district basis beginning with the General Municipal Election in November 2024 and every four years thereafter. One (1) mayor shall be elected at-large in November 2024.

Only registered voters residing in the Council District may vote for candidates running for City Council in that District.

Lookup your voting district using our Interactive Mapping Tool.