Kathleen Fitzpatrick Seeks Second Term on La Quinta City Council

LA QUINTA — Kathleen Fitzpatrick, 71, first elected to the City Council in 2016, is seeking a second term in the Nov. 3 election.

She is one of three people seeking two open seats. The others are Richard Gray and Steve Sanchez, an incumbent. Each of the seats is a four-year term.

Uken Report asked each of the three qualified candidates a series of idential questions. Following are responses from Fitzpatrick.

Uken Report (UR): Occupation

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: City Council Member; Retired Superintendent of Planning and Development, Department of Recreation and Parks, City of LA

UR: Why specifically do you want to be on City Council?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: La Quinta, like every city, is facing unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic. I desire to continue my service to leverage my experience, both professionally and with our Council, to work through the challenges we are going to face as a city. Aside from the work we need to do to secure our financial future, there are many projects that we are starting or are underway that I want to bring to fruition. Everyone in La Quinta knows about SilverRock Resort, but there are other projects, too, like the redevelopment of Highway 111 and the expansion of the Village. These projects are examples of a vision we have been working on to grow the future economy of La Quinta.

UR: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment either in or out of office?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: My greatest accomplishment has been raising a family. Aside from that, I’ve had   good fortune to have a long career in the public sector, where I helped plan and construct many public facilities that to this day continue to help people lead a healthy, active life. Both accomplishments have given me a considerable advantage in the experience I bring in serving La Quinta on its Council.

UR: How do you define leader and leadership?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: I define leadership as the ability to digest and synthesize information on complex issues, the ability to ask for and listen to input from other people and, then make decisions and take action in the best interest of the city and its residents. Good leaders listen and have the ability to work collaboratively to make good decisions and move the community toward a common vision as  participants rather than spectators. Good leaders align their words with their actions and build trust. Trust is the essence of leadership.

UR: Do you fit this definition?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: Yes, I do fit the definition. Experience has taught me that quite often if you listen to others you will hear the right answer to most problems or disputes.

UR: What are your top three goals for La Quinta?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: My top three goals for La Quinta are:

  • Work toward our economic recovery from the pandemic, supporting our residents
    and small businesses alike.
  • Resolve our short-term rental program. Collectively wee must improve and
    strengthen our program to ensure the fabric of our city neighborhoods and the quality
    of life for our residents is secure.
  • Continue our capital improvement programs and long-term planning efforts to
    maintain and improve the quality of life in La Quinta.

UR: COVID-19 has taken a toll on the Coachella Valley’s economy. What specifically will you do to help La Quinta rebound?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: I think La Quinta has been at the forefront regionally and demonstrated proactive leadership in protecting the health and safety of residents and our businesses. We have assisted our community with access to current, factual information. We allocated $1.5 million from our Economic Disaster Reserves to help our businesses with rent and utility payments. We have helped local businesses plan for alternative ways to open their business safely. Our business programs are examples of the can-do attitude our Council brings to an emergency. We will continue to support our businesses going forward with programs and permit processes that will help them open safely and as quickly as possible.

UR: You are all well-known. What is one thing people don’t know about you?

Kathleen Fitzpatrick: One thing that most people do not know about me is that I have run 13 Los Angeles Marathons. I continue to run because I enjoy it – just not as far or as fast!

UR: Tell us one good thing about each of your opponents.

Kathleen Fitzpatrick:.

  • Steve Sanchez is a combat veteran and he deserves our appreciation for his service.
  • Richard Gray: I don’t actually know Mr. Gray but I commend him for running for Council. I always appreciate when people step up to the plate and volunteer to work for the community.

Image Sources

  • Kathleen Fitzpatrick: Kathleen Fitzpatrick