Ralph Perry Eyes New Palm Desert District 5 Seat

Will Ralph Perry be First Councilor Elected from District 5?

PALM DESERT — Palm Desert uses five single-member City Council districts. The November 3 General Municipal Election will include Districts 4 and 5. This election completes the City’s transition to five single-member council districts., marking the first time a candidate will be elected from District 5.

Voters in Districts 4 and 5 will elect City Council representatives for full four-year terms.

Residents can use the Palm  Desert Voting Districts Look-Up  to confirm their City Council district.

UR: Why are you a better candidate than your opponent(s)?

Ralph Perry: I am a candidate who understand the needs of seniors in District Five.  As a longtime, former care professional, this includes care needs for the elderly and disabled.  I would like to address the tragedy of extreme loneliness in Palm Desert.  I know seniors who live alone, single people who have limited contact with the outside world due to physical limitations.  They are grateful and look forward to interactions with a visitor.

UR: Why are you a better candidate than your opponent(s)?

Ralph Perry:  My vision for the city is multi-faceted. a) Continue to be a premier, diverse, appealing-to-all destination city in the Coachella Valley.  b)  Maintain excitement and a team spirit with our many choices for work and play, both now and in the future  c) To be a beacon of hope and excellent living for all residents and guests,

UR: How much do you plan to spend on your campaign? Keep in mind your spending and contributions are public record.

Ralph Perry:  I have turned down donations because I am spending less than $2,000. A close family member is an elected school board member in Orange County. She is an inspiration to me and that’s what she does,  As a former local Democratic Club President, I understand campaigning. I believe in the adage “Less is More.”  I believe the public is tired of information, heard or perceived, about buying elections.   Elections are not for sale.

UR: The Data Center issue has been a major contentious issue in the Valley this past year. If a Data Center was proposed in Palm Desert, would you approve or reject and why?

Ralph Perry: I am against Data Centers for the entire Coachella Valley.  I am not NIMBY, however these centers drain resources along with the public’s comfort level and peace of mind.

UR: Who or what prompted you to run?

Ralph Perry: I have considered running since 2021 when I first volunteered for Parks and Recreation.  In the meantime, I have learned a ton of information as a city committee member and chair.  I can hit the ground running. I am a longtime resident of our city.  I marvel at the way our city is organized, it’s processes and it’s people.

UR: What have you learned about running for publicCity of Palm Desert office that you did not know before?

Ralph Perry: I have enjoyed talking to residents, hearing their stories and concerns, even more than before.  Everyone has a story to share. I have been invited into homes for inspiring conversation.  I am mindful about listening, giving validation, encouragement while brainstorming ideas and potential solutions.   I have become more confident in the campaign as a community outreach for others.

UR: The City Council recently had a budget study session that showed dipping into reserves in the not-too-distant future. Quite frankly, the council didn’t seem to see the red flags or hear the alarms.  So, what would you do or propose doing to generate revenue and stimulate economic growth to offset the high costs of public safety, infrastructure needs, etc.?

Ralph Perry: Regarding spending, we have to economize. Others who are involved, agree.  There are details of one large project right now, we are trying to economize. We need to be realistic about possible cost overruns and expenses to maintain a strong financial position for the future.  Generating revenue is about being user friendly to business and residents, appealing to visitors, showing “We Care” and simplicity of process.

We must live within our means.  We must grow our reserves, not dip into them. We require prudent financial choices giving residents and visitors the most for their resources while maintaining a quality lifestyle and peace of mind. We need to use the additional funds of $5M/year from the 2024 voter approved Measure G, wisely and with continued transparency. Measure G has already paid for additional law enforcement and public safety. We need to grow infrastructure sensibly to accommodate population growth while remaining thankful and proud for what we have.

UR: What is the best quality about your opponent(s)?

Ralph Perry: Communication – To establish a relationship, my opponent John and I reached out to each other before this all started.  We both have an extensive record of public service and commitment to the city.