Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce Voice of Business by Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber Takes its Voice to Sacramento

Prenatal & Neonatal Care Wellness & Primary Care Level II Trauma Center Comprehensive Cancer Care Orthopedic Services Stroke & Rehabilitation

Your Health Blooms Here Desert Regional Medical Center Hi-Desert Medical Center JFK Memorial Hospital are now your Desert Care Network It takes the right conditions for the desert to flourish. The same holds true for your health. Which means you can look forward to greater access to advanced technologies. With compassionate care rooted right here in your communities. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for you. So everyone can bloom with better health.

1-833-317-0154 desertcarenetwork.com

The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all of our 2018/2019 sponsors for supporting your chamber.

Platinum

Gold

Silver

Bronze

info@gcvcc.org | gcvcc.org | 760-347-0676

Thank you to our 2018/2019 Board of Directors

Ernesto Rosales, Chairman of the Board Ronald McDonald House Charities Southern California â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Loma Linda

Jill Tremblay Past Chairman Best Best & Krieger LLP

Toni Merrihew Chairman Elect Chandi Group USA

Jeff Levine Vice Chairman Asher & Asher Consulting

Jay Chesterton, Treasurer Fantasy Springs Resort Casino â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cabazon Band of Mission Indians

Cary Boisvert, Secretary Forest Lawn Memorial Parks & Mortuaries

Jason Schneider, CPA, Osborne Rincon, CPAs

Carmen Contreras Carmen Contreras State Farm

Jennifer Van Horn Spotlight 29/Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians

Deirdre Callanan North American Title

Herman Sebastian Garcia Rabobank

Lindsay Grant Desert Sun Media Group

Lesa Bodnar Coachella Valley Economic Partnership

Cindy Burreson Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa

Rob Ballew Family YMCA of the Desert

Austin Beneteau Modern Woodmen of America

Victoria Llort American Outreach Foundation

Rich Ramhoff Desert Regional Medical Center

Debbie Wales JFK Memorial Hospital

Mike Williams Capitis Real Estate

Julio Figueroa AT&T

David Bremudez Cathedral City Chamber of Commerce

David Nola Alpha Media

Mike Etheridge Western Water Works

Diana Soto Coachella Chamber of Commerce

Mickey Jumapao Envoy Mortgage

Ramiro Jimenez Indio Chamber of Commerce

Julie Frazier Frazier Pest Control

Jeff Fishbein La Quinta Chamber of Commerce

content 08 10 12 15 16 18 24

Greetings Business Community The Chamber Takes its Voice to Sacramento The ABC’s of Employment Classification in CA California’s Evolving Cannabis Industry Eye on Sacramento GCVCC Kitchen Table Talk Two Years In, A Conversation with Supervisor Perez

GCVCC.ORG 760-347-0676 INFO@GCVCC.ORG 6

PA R A D I S E AWA I T S

From enticing appetizers to irresistible entrées and decadent desserts, experience the bold flavors of the Pacific Rim. JOIN US FOR DINNER

Nightly at 3 p.m.

WEEKEND BRUNCH

Sat - Sun at 11 a.m.

ALOHA HOUR

Daily at 2:59 p.m.

ROY’S RANCHO MIRAGE 71959 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 TEL (760) 340-9044

2019 Q2 ROYS_RANCHO_Print_AD_8.5x5.5_v2.indd 1

5/29/19 9:33 AM

SAVE TIME WITH

Club Pickup Order online, and we’ll have everything ready for you when you arrive.

Shop online anytime • We’ll fill your cart • Bypass the register

More to explore. Discover amazing values for your home, business and everywhere in between.

www.samsclub.com 34220 Monterey Ave. • Palm Desert, CA 92260 • 760-770-7146

Greetings Business Community

or over a century, the Coachella Valley has grown from humble roots to become an international destination. Our valley hosts a sprawling economy that is diverse in product and industry, and essential to not only our region, but our nation. The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to serve a dynamic and bold group of professionals that drive our economy forward every day.

The Chamber has long understood the delicate balance between government and industry. While neither was established to serve the other, there is a symbiotic relationship that ties the two together and lays the foundation for our community to prosper and create jobs. The business community in the Coachella Valley is doing its part, supporting a population that climbs to almost half-a-million people in peak season. Whether it is agriculture, tourism, retail or health, the valley’s business community has laid a foundation for success that benefits our resident’s prosperity now and in the future. Our elected officials have also benefited from a growing employment base and tax revenues that support that vital infrastructure they oversee. Guiding budgets in the millions on the local level, billions on the regional level, those serving the community in an elected capacity should be respected for the work they do, and the obligations they have willingly taken on. The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce and its 1,300plus members thank you for your service to the community. We also ask for your support. Decisions are made daily in city halls across the valley that impact our business community’s ability to work, innovate and create jobs. From 8

code compliance to zoning, the business of job creation can be made easier, or more onerous, based on local policy. The effect can be even greater at the County, State and Federal level. The impact of workplace mandates, government tax burdens, and the regulatory environment business must navigate is felt every day. For better or worse, from the oneperson retail shop to a growing regional company, we feel the stimulus and burdens of adopted business policy. The chamber understands the balance in the system. From social causes to environmental action, we face a complex and evolving world. Information is arriving at breakneck speed, business is connecting globally at a pace we have never seen, and the challenges facing us all are real. We, the Coachella Valley’s business community, are here to help. We frequently lend our time, energy and hard-earned money to help support the community. But we also need support, and we need balance. Led by an outstanding Business Legislative Advocacy Committee and a policy advisor with over three decades of local, regional, and national policy experience, the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is committed to being “The Voice of Business in the Coachella Valley.” Our organization is not partisan, we care little about the letter that appears after a name. Our concern is working with elected leaders to help draft and implement fair, thoughtful and respectful policy that helps our business community do what it does best – create jobs. We hope you enjoy the first edition of this magazine. This magazine will help amplify the

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Voice of Businessâ&#x20AC;? in our region, making clear our view on some of the most pressing issues we face. It will also help share the views, priorities and voting records of our elected leaders and governing bodies from across the Coachella Valley with our business community. Our primary goal is to report, in a fair and concise manner and

Ernesto Rosales Ronald McDonald House Charities Chairman of the Board, Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

often in their own words, how our elected officials are helping promote job growth in the valley. Thank you to all our members, sponsors, and advertisers that make our work possible. This is your chamber, and your voice.

Julio Figueroa AT&T Chair, Business Legislative Advocacy Committee

Joshua Bonner, IOM President and CEO Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce

A full-service law firm with offices across California and in Washington, D.C. BB&K delivers effective, timely and service-oriented solutions to complex legal issues facing public agencies, businesses and individuals. 74-760 Highway 111, Suite 200 Indian Wells, CA 92210 (760) 568-2611 BEST BEST & KRIEGER A T T O R N E Y S AT L AW

9 www.BBKlaw.com

The Chamber Takes Its Voice to Sacramento Story by: GCVCC Staff

he Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is expanding the voice of business in the Coachella Valley, carrying their message all the way to the CA State House. A delegation of 15 GCVCC members and staff signed up to visit the California Capital on April 20th. The delegation met with elected leaders from across the Coachella Valley and Inland Empire -- seven legislative offices in total and a meeting with the State Salton Sea Commission.

• (Host) • • • • (D) •

Office of Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D)

• • Sea

Office of Assemblymember James Ramos (D) Parks and Recreation Committee on the Salton

The chamber discussed a variety of topics with the legislators considered high priority for our valley, including the Salton Sea, healthcare, professional training and college, tax policy, rail, state intervention in pricing, and general support for the business community.

Office of Assemblymember Chad Mayes (R) Office of Senator Jeff Stone (R) Office of Assemblymember Jose Medina (D) Office of Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes

In addition to meeting with elected leaders, the chamber was also recognized from the floor of the State Assembly by Assemblymember Mayes. The Chamber was hosted and supplied a conference room for use by the Office of Assemblymember Garcia.

Office of Assemblymember Serina Cervantes (D)

“It was a very productive trip,” said GCVCC Board Chair

Ernesto Rosales. “It’s important that our chamber be here in Sacramento to share our goals and challenges with elected leaders. The business community in the Coachella Valley needs a voice at the State House, and we are proud to help lend our voices to that effort.” While in Sacramento, the chamber was also proud to receive distinguished recognition on behalf of the business community. The California Chamber of Commerce named 19 local chambers of commerce from across California winners of the 2019 President’s Circle Award, including the GCVCC.

Patrick Swarthout and Legislative Committee Chair Julio Figueroa (AT&T) were on hand to accept the award. The GCVCC will be hosting regular trips to Sacramento in the future. If you or a member of your staff would be interested in participating, they should contact Joshua Bonner at (760) 347-0676.

The award, first presented in 2009, recognizes chambers for excellence in business advocacy and helping their members comply with California employment laws. Representatives of the President’s Circle chambers were honored on May 22nd during the CalChamber Capitol Summit in Sacramento. GCVCC Policy Advisor

The ABC’s of Employment Classification in CA Story by: Jason A. Schneider, CPA and Veronica Barajas, CPA On April 30, 2018, the California Supreme Court issued a decision which drastically changed the way business classify contracted workers and subsequently, employees. In the settlement of the case “Dynamex Operations West, Inc. v. Superior Court,” the California Supreme Court made it imperative to understand the difference in classification between an employee and an independent contractor.

ith this ruling, California has significantly changed their definition of an employee and created a standard whereby all workers are presumed to be employees and has placed the burden of proof in classifying an individual as an independent contractor on the entity. Prior to the Dynamex case, California used the “20 factor test” to determine who would be classified as an employee and who would be classified as an independent contractor. Since the Dynamex case ruling was handed down, the state has developed the “ABC Test” to simplify the classification process and guide employers as they evaluate their staffing needs, which is as follows:

insurance coverage, etc. At least 20 states have implemented some form of the ABC Test, and the California Supreme Court specifically LOVE IS Athe BEAUTIFUL THING! ruled that ABC Test should be broadly applied for inquiries under the California Wage Orders as to whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor. Businesses with 50 or more employees are required to provide health care insurance, so hiring an employee vs. IS A BEAUTIFUL THING!impact an independentLOVE contractor can have a significant on small businesses. In addition to possible healthcare insurance expense, if an individual is classified as an employee, the employer bears the responsibility of paying Social Security and payroll taxes, unemployment insurance and worker’s compensation insurance as well as navigating the extensive statutes governing hours, working conditions and wages of these employees.

A. Control. Do you control and direct the individual hired as to the work required to be performed, per contract and in fact. B. Outside Work. Is the worker reliant on your employment only? For example, does the worker maintain outside work other than what you are providing to them? TOP / BOTTOM CENTER IMAGE BY JUSTIN CRITZPHOTOGRAPHY AT ALCAZAR (F10 CATERING) (PS FLORIST) LEFT AND RIGHT BOTTOM IMAGE BY STEPHANIE CARDONA PHOTOGRAPHY AT THUNDERBIRD CC (PALM SPRINGS FLOWER MART)

C. Dependent Trade. Does the worker rely on the trade and/or occupation you are involved in? This means, does the worker not regularly work as an independent contractor in a similar business? If the answers to any of these basic questions are yes, then you have likely hired an employee. With the broad strokes used to paint the new classification process, it has become extremely difficult if not impossible to classify an individual as an independent contractor. Understanding this classification is crucial LOVE for determining the employer’s payroll tax liabilities and other benefits required by employer, i.e., sick pay,

A misclassification can open up a business to potential liability, so it is important for companies to be careful with regard to engaging any independent contractors going forward – particularly those who are working as sole proprietorships/single individuals rather than companies who have retained a force of workers in an independent business. For additional guidance, the Employment Development Department recommends the use of their DE 231 worksheet for specifics.

TOP / BOTTOM CENTER IMAGE BY JUSTIN CRITZPHOTOGRAPHY AT ALCAZAR (F10 CATERING) (PS FLORIST) LEFT AND RIGHT BOTTOM IMAGE BY STEPHANIE CARDONA PHOTOGRAPHY AT THUNDERBIRD CC (PALM SPRINGS FLOWER MART)

LOVE IS A BEAUTIFUL THING! IS A BEAUTIFUL THING!

VISION EVENTS Weddings 12

TOP / BOTTOM CENTER IMAGE BY JUSTIN CRITZPHOTOGRAPHY AT ALCAZAR (F10 CATERING) (PS FLORIST) LEFT AND RIGHT BOTTOM IMAGE BY STEPHANIE CARDONA PHOTOGRAPHY AT THUNDERBIRD CC (PALM SPRINGS FLOWER MART)

VISION EVENTS Social Corporate Weddings

Social

Corporate

760.778.3822 OFFICE | 760.250.4769 CELL | ltivisionevents@gmail.com | www.ltivision.com

Become one of our 1,300+ members today What is the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce? Champion

Working with federal, state and local government on issues that aﬀect business.

Convener

Oﬀering over 250 events a year to bring the business community together and advance commerce.

Catalyst

Working directly with our local cities to promote shop local campaigns, publish local business news to the community, and push economic activity that keeps our region growing.

760-347-0676 | www.GCVCC.org | info@gcvcc.org POSTAL CONNECTION YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

WHATEVER IT IS, CONSIDER IT DONE OUR SERVICES

Local Summer Golf Special! Enjoy our executive, 9-hole golf course at The Sands through Dec. 2019 for only $12 per round when you present proof of local residency!* All rounds include a FREE golf cart rental! 16400 Bubbling Wells Rd. Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240

(888) 459-3146 • SandsRVResort.com *Subject to availability. Call to make a reservation.

• Shipping • Packaging • Office Supplies • Moving Supplies • NOTARY • Mailbox Rental

• Gifts • Faxing • Shredding • Scanning • Laminating • Greeting Cards

• Printing • Business Cards • Banners • Brochures • Binding • Copies

YOUR LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD SHIP CENTER IN TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS! Indio Jefferson & 50th Ralphs Shopping Center 49950 Jefferson St Ste. 130, Indio, CA 92201 760-771-1428 Email: indiopostal@gmail.com Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 9am-4pm (THIS LOCATION IS UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP) La Quinta Washington St Ste. 2C La Quinta, CA 92253 760-564-5969 Email: Lqpostal@gmail.com Store Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 9am-3pm

Mention this ad and get 3 months free with an Annual Mailbox Rental

A MARIJUANA DISPENSARY SERVING THE COACHELLA VALLEY PREMIUM CANNABIS PRODUCTS . PRICES THAT MAKE SENSE LICENSED MARIJUANA DELIVERY SERVICE KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF . TESTED AND STATE COMPLIANT PRODUCTS

. PALM DESERT 760.656.0865 422.282.5101 WESTCOASTCANNABIS.CLUB 14

NEIL HUSVAR

CATHEDRAL CITY

California's Evolving Cannabis Industry Story by: Joe Wallace, CVEP

n 2016 the voters of California overwhelmingly approved a ballot initiative to legalize cannabis for recreational use. The law went into effect on January 1, 2018 nearly 20 years after California had legalized cannabis for medicinal use. With 20 years of experience it was expected that adding recreational use to the existing business base would have been easy and that tax dollars would start flowing freely into the coffers of Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cities, counties and state governments. Expectations were high (no pun intended) and plans were made on how to spend the expected windfall. As is often the story with easy money, the windfall has not lived up to expectations. The State of California boldly projected that the first year of legalization would net $1 Billion in taxes. The San Jose Mercury News reported that the reality of the first year was only $345 Million or just over a third of what turned out to be an irrationally exuberant projection to borrow a phrase made famous by former Chairman of the Federal Reserve Alan Greenspan. Projections for 2019 and 2020 have recently been reduced again. There are two distinct business models that have attracted many ganjapreneurs to the modern version of the gold rush. The first is the business of cultivation and the Coachella Valley has quite a few people making efforts to enter that business. Millions of square feet have been permitted and are in various stages of development. It was recently published that Vessel Logistics, a San Francisco-based cannabis distribution company, found that existing legal growers have the capacity to produce 9 million pounds of cannabis every year, but the permitted wholesale market can realistically support only 1.8 million to 2.2 million pounds. This means that there is already a mismatch between the supply and the demand of over 300%, yet the new grow facilities continue to sprout up like Amazon fulfillment centers. Since legalization of recreational cannabis, the wholesale

price of high quality cannabis has plummeted from over $5,000 per pound to under $1,000 and the futures market projects further price erosion. It is only a matter of time before cannabis becomes an agricultural commodity with options trading on the Chicago Board Options Exchange alongside soybeans, corn, and pork bellies. Expanding production capacity beyond todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s levels will continue to drive down prices. While this is a great thing for the customer base, it will create ever more difficult challenges for the growers and retailers. Dispensaries where cannabis is sold to customers has blossomed in the Coachella Valley with high end providers catering to upscale markets. The costs associated with regulatory compliance, collecting taxes, hiring staff, and facility based operational expenses make competing with illegal suppliers difficult. According to the New York Times, California is the home of a thriving illegal cannabis business with storefronts and private growers who sell their products openly. The California Bureau of Cannabis Control has received over 7,500 complaints about illegal cannabis sellers. There is plenty of incentive to customers to purchase illegally too. With legal tax rates between 30% and 50% plus the cost of establishing and maintaining a legitimate business, buying illegally can easily save a customer well over 50% when compared to legal options. The challenges of having a sustainable cannabis business that operates at a profit are large moving targets. They are not insurmountable if taxes are adjusted to reasonable levels and illegal operators are kept out of the market like moonshiners are prevented from competing with alcohol. Californiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s citizens deserve to realize some benefits from the legalization of cannabis. The promised benefits will only be delivered when the supply and demand come into balance and the manic nature of expectations comes face to face with the reality of managing two sustainable business models.

EYE ON SACRAMENTO Below is a list of pending legislation under consideration by the State of California legislature that could impact your business. We have also noted the current Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Legislative Advocacy Committee’s position on each bill (support or oppose). It is important to note that the chamber’s position on bills can be fluid, potentially changing as a bill is amended through the legislative process. Often our position on a bill may not be based solely on the intended outcome of a bill, but rather unintended consequences such as the amount of potential litigation it could expose business to if implemented, the amount of additional reporting that it would require, etc. The Chamber does its best to analyze each business-related bill to try and understand how it could impact business in general. Because proposed legislation is often complex, our analysis may not be applicable to every business. We encourage our business community to carefully study proposed legislation, especially bills that could impact their industry, and share their views with the chamber and their elected leaders. We welcome member feedback. The chamber will offer updates on each of the bills listed below in our January edition of this magazine, including how each of your local elected officials voted on each bill. For a full list of bills and additional information visit www.legislature.ca.gov/bill_information.html.

Our Position Support

AB 23 AB 1303 AB 1607 SB 736 16

Autumn Burke (D), 62nd Assembly District, Los Angeles County

This bill establishes the Deputy of Business and Workforce Coordination which will help provide California with a workforce that is employment ready and trained in industry sectors that have the greatest workforce needs.

Patrick O’Donnell (D), 70th Assembly District, Los Angeles/Long Beach

Provides notice to businesses at the time they get their license of the Gender Tax Repeal Act so that they can avoid predatory and costly lawsuits.

Asha Boerner Horvath (D), 76th Assembly District, San Diego County

Provides notice to businesses at the time they get their license of the Gender Tax Repeal Act so that they can avoid predatory and costly lawsuits.

Tom Umberg (D), 34th Assembly District, Long Beach/Orange County

Creates fund to assist California’s local communities in competing with other states to attract large events into California, promoting tourism and local businesses.

Oppose

AB 40

Phil Ting (D), 19th Assembly District, San Francisco

AB 51

Lorena Gonzalez (D), 80th Assembly District, San Diego

AB 161

Phil Ting (D), 19th Assembly District, San Francisco

AB 345

Al Muratsuchi (D), 66th Assembly District, Los Angeles

AB 555 AB 628 AB 764 AB 766 AB 40

Discourages investment and eliminates jobs in California by essentially imposing a ban on all non-zero emission vehicles by requiring the California Air Resources Board to develop a strategy ensuring all passenger and light-duty vehicle sales are zero emission by 2040. Ban on Arbitration Agreements. Significantly expands employment litigation and increases costs for employers and employees by banning arbitration agreements made as a condition of employment, which is likely preempted under the Federal Arbitration Act and will only delay the resolution of claims. Banning such agreements benefits the trial attorneys, not the employer or employee. Governor Brown vetoed a similar measure last year and stated it “plainly violates federal law.”

Would mandate almost all businesses in California offer electronic or text receipts to every customer for every transaction instead of paper receipts. California businesses would be forced to replace entire point-of-sale systems, house and protect vast quantities of personal consumer data, and be subjected to a plethora of new California Consumer Privacy Act litigation.

Would eliminate thousands of high paying California jobs and require California to import even more foreign oil by banning new oil and gas development, re-drilling operations, and rework operations by imposing a state minimum 2,500-foot setback requirement from certain structures, and further authorizing local governments to enact even greater setback requirements, without limitation.

Lorena Gonzalez (D), 80th Assembly District, San Diego

Amends the Healthy Workplaces, Healthy Families Act to extend the number of paid sick days employers are required to provide from 3 days to 5 days and provides state preemption for specific provisions of the Act.

Rob Bonta (D), 18th Assembly District, San Francisco

Significantly expands the definition of sexual harassment under the Labor Code, which is different than the definition in the Government Code, leading to inconsistent implementation of antiharassment policies, confusion, and litigation. Also, provides an unprecedented, uncapped leave of absence for victims of sexual harassment and their “family members” which is so broadly defined that it will add another layer of burdens on employers and their ability to manage their workforce.

Rob Bonta (D), 18th Assembly District, San Francisco

Severely restricts marketing opportunities by beverage companies based on unproven facts regarding health effects of sugar-sweetened beverages.

David Chiu (D), 17th Assembly District, San Francisco

Unfairly limits the sale of sugar sweetened beverages to cups of 16 oz. or less. Imposes penalties by Attorney General or local government counsel.

Kevin McCarty (D), 7th Assembly District, Sacramento

Significantly undermines an employer’s ability to maintain a safe, drug-free workplace, by prohibiting an employer from discharging an employee who has tested positive for a drug prohibited by company policy that is being used for medical purposes, which will expose employers to costly litigation. 17

GCVCC Kitchen Table Talk Story by: GCVCC Staff and Noe Guttierrez The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce is privileged to have close ties with our elected leaders. Mutual conversation between lawmakers and business leaders often leads to collaborative and effective business policy. The chamber wanted to share some of those conversations with our members. Recently we were able to sit down with five first-term local elected leaders to discuss a variety of topics, including one of the most pressing topics for our valley, the Salton Sea. We thank Palm Springs City Councilmember Christy Holstege, Cathedral City Councilmember Raymond Gregory, La Quinta Mayor Pro-Tem Steve Sanchez, Indio Councilmember Waymond Fermon, and Coachella Councilmember Megan Beaman Jacinto for sharing our “kitchen table” with GCVCC President Joshua Bonner. We also thank community member and writer Noe Gutierrez for his assistance writing this article.

The Salton Sea – Old Challenge, Renewed Urgency

ne of the valley’s most vexing challenges is the future of the Salton Sea, just getting people to understand the complexity of the issue is critical. Bonner described a conversation with his oldest child where she offered her assessment, “‘it’s a large puddle that needs more water, what’s the problem, just get it more water.” While the group smiled at the simplification of the description, the reality around implementing policy

solutions is complex. “It’s about competing ideas”, says Sanchez. “For a long time, we had the Salton Sea Authority in the 90’s and 00’s. Everybody had their competing ideas so nobody could agree on one common fix. I think people got Salton Sea talk fatigue.” While solutions for the Sea have been long discussed, the entire group acknowledged the need to drive real action soon. “What’s happened is we’re running out of time,” points out Fermon. “I drive by the Salton Sea every day and I see how much it has receded and it’s scary to know the number of children in the Coachella Valley and Imperial County who have respiratory issues like

asthma. This is an issue that has stayed on the desk for too long.” Representing a city in the east valley, Beaman Jacinto believes the impacts may be greater than we know. “In the eastern valley the data on air toxicity has never been gathered. When you look at existing data it’s for the entire valley or the whole county, it’s not representative of individual communities. We don’t have the data to support what we believe is true, that there are higher asthma rates on the eastern side because of the Salton Sea.” Beaman Jacinto is encouraged local groups like Alianza Coachella Valley are more aggressively taking on the Salton Sea as an advocacy issue, helping the community understand it better and share in what the next steps are. It’s also encouraging that the entire valley is starting to understand this issue impacts us all, and some form of action must come soon from those best able to supply

it. “I think sometimes we’re too critical of action,” said Holstege. “We might need to take imperfect action, but we need to take action. I think it’s urgent and I’m ready to act urgently. How do we do that? The cities don’t have a lot of power when it comes to the Salton Sea. We can pass a resolution. We can engage. But we are going to have to really use our collective power to get the State and County to listen.” Bonner added, “we have historically seen different issues kicked down the road like pensions. I don’t think this can be kicked down the road much further.” Sanchez believes that ironically fear of action may also be playing a role. “Lawmakers may be afraid to make a decision because of the risk factor for them. What if they allocate all these dollars and it doesn’t work? But inaction has proved just as expensive. We have spent millions on so many studies, imagine if we spent those millions actually trying something? It’s going to take a political will to act to get past that fear.”

While there has been some debate over how to fix the Sea, there was consensus among the group on where the fix will ultimately need to come from. “Christy is really hitting on it,” said Gregory. “Part of the frustration for all of us is that there’s not something any individual city, or even collectively as a group of cities, we can do to fix it. It’s too big of a problem. It’s going to require state and federal action to do that.” Gregory thinks the problem will eventually drive the fix. “Even though there has been some progress, it hasn’t got to that tipping point where there’s the urgency to actually make it happen. We need to continue to find ways to sound the alarm on the tipping point, so we actually get some action.” Bonner believes local Coachella Valley elected leaders are banging that drum, the problem may be who is listening. “Assemblymember Garcia has a lot of clout in Sacramento, and I know he and other local elected leaders are sounding the alarm on the issue. The challenge is getting past the perception that this is a Coachella Valley problem.” Fermon was quick to point out it should not be viewed as a partisan issue either. “This is a very bipartisan issue. This is not something we can separate on; we must come together.” Holstege hopes a growing business community can be part of the solution. “Some of this stems from a longterm lack of focus and investment in our region at the state level. Riverside is the fastest growing county in the state, and we have never gotten our fair share of

resources. We have a huge geographical area, so we need to make sure we get our fair share of resources for our region to address these problems. I think that is our role politically and I agree it’s an issue that the business community cares about. As a business owner, I think if we can ramp up the importance of these issues for everyone, we can hopefully move some people to action.”

About the GCVCC Salton Sea Advocacy Platform The GCVCC’s Legislative Platform establishes clear positions on matters related to the Coachella Valley’s environment. We support the following action related to the Salton Sea: • An atmosphere of cooperation among agencies discussing environmental issues including air and water quality in the Coachella Valley. • Reasonable efforts to make the Salton Sea a viable resource and tourism destination. If you would like more information on the GCVCC’s Legislative Platform for the 2019-2020 year, visit GCVCC. org and click on Legislative Action/Legislative Platform. For more information on how to contact your local elected officials, or to become involved in the GCVCC Legislative Committee, contact the chamber at (760) 347-0676.

R 0100 0Y E YE OF F T EE DDS ESREVRI C O VO EV RE 1 AARRSS O TRRUUSSTT V EI C E

OV E R 1 0 0 YE ARS OF TRU S TED S ERV ICE

CONSIDERING CREMATION?

Get the answers you need from a trusted source.

CONSIDERING CONSIDERING CREMATION?

At Forest Lawn, cremations are different. They’re not standard or routine. They’re individual. Because each one comes with a memorial service that’s personalized, bringing together family and friends so they can console each other and share their memories.

CREMATION?

Get the answers you need from a trusted source.

This heart-healing ceremony is even more helpful, if those who are left behind know that you planned it for them and added your personal touch.

Get theLawn, answers you need from At Forest cremations are different. They’re a nottrusted standard orsource. routine.

IfThey’re you’d individual. like to know more, call number andservice we’ll send Because each onethe comes with abelow memorial that’s you a free brochure that tells you all about memorial urns, niches, personalized, bringing together familycremation, and friends so they can services, console each other and share their columbaria, and allmemories. the other ways you can personalize your goodbye — at At Forest Lawn, cremations are different. They’re not standard or routine. Forest Lawn. Thisindividual. heart-healing ceremony is one even comes more helpful, those whoservice are leftthat’s They’re Because each with a ifmemorial behind know that you planned it for them and added your personal touch. personalized, bringing together family and friends so they can console each 760-321-6400 FORESTLAWN.COM you’d like to know more, call the·number below and we’ll send you a free otherIfand share their memories. brochure that tells you all about cremation, memorial services, urns, niches, This columbaria, heart-healing even helpful, your if those who—are and ceremony all the otherisways youmore can personalize goodbye at left Forest Lawn. behind know that you planned it for them and added your personal touch.

If you’d like to know more, call ·the number below and we’ll send you a free 760-321-6400 FORESTLAWN.COM brochure that tells you all about cremation, memorial services, urns, niches, columbaria, and all the other ways you can personalize your goodbye — at CATHEDRAL CITY FD 1847 · COACHELLA FD 640 · INDIO FD 967 Forest Lawn. FOREST LAWN MEMORIAL-PARKS & MORTUARIES

760-321-6400 · FORESTLAWN.COM CATHEDRAL CITY FD

1847 ·

COACHELLA FD

640 ·

INDIO FD

FOREST LAWN MEMORIAL-PARKS & MORTUARIES

967

CARMEN E. CONTRERAS INSURANCE AGENCY INC.

COME SEE US FOR ALL YOUR INSURANCE NEEDS

81709 Dr. Carreon Blvd. Suite #A5 Indio, Ca. 92201

760-347-1530 22

License #Ok101720

Two Years In, A Conversation With Supervisor Perez Story by: GCVCC Staff As he marks his second full year on the job, Supervisor V. Manuel Perez sits down with the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce to look back on his time in one of the most important jobs in our region, while offering perspective on where our County is headed.

Supervisor Perez, you just completed your second full year in office from when you were initially appointed, how is the job going? Serving in this position is about the power of people and the power of community and in uniting the valley. As a team, the “Phenomenal Fourth,” we are here because of our mission: to provide exceptional service and representation to all Fourth District residents and the County of Riverside. It’s been amazing to consider what we’ve accomplished together since beginning this journey two years ago, across a range of important issues in our community: economic development, housing, homelessness, assisting veterans, health care, behavioral health, public safety, infrastructure, binational efforts, the Salton Sea, and supporting our agricultural community and hospitality, pillars of the Fourth District economy. It is a fascinating opportunity to serve our community as your Riverside County Fourth District Supervisor. When I was granted this opportunity two years ago, it came under difficult circumstances with the passing of Supervisor John J. Benoit. Supervisor Benoit did a lot of great work and was a partner of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce and its role in promoting and enhancing our regional economy. I strive to honor the example and leadership that he and Supervisor Roy Wilson set by helping the community and helping the people in this important position. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors and in local government to ensure we fulfill the mission of the Phenomenal Fourth.

Not everyone fully understands the amount of unincorporated land in Riverside County. What percentage of the county falls under that designation and tell us a little about the role you play in managing it? By population, Riverside County ranks as the tenth largest county in the nation. At 7,300 square miles, Riverside County is larger than three states. The Fourth District that I represent goes from the windmills to the Arizona border, and covers 68 percent of the county. That’s large enough to enclose the other four districts within it twice! About 93 percent of the Fourth District is unincorporated area. For residents who don’t live within a city, I am their local government representative they can turn to. In most of these communities, we have established community councils for residents to be informed on what is happening and find opportunities to participate in community improvements. I have made an effort to get out to all the cities, communities, senior and community centers to get to know our Fourth District communities, hear from residents and be of help. I commit to being accessible to you. Riverside County provides essential services to you, whether you live in a city or in an unincorporated area. The county is the delivery channel for state services such as foster care, public health, elections, assessment of property, record-keeping. Riverside County agencies administer the majority of federal and state safety net programs that are a critical lifeline to many people. We also provide municipal services such as library services,

animal services, and aspects of the public safety system.

Business developers are of course always concerned about development fees, how do you rank our county fee structure against other counties in CA and what are we looking at in the near future for rates? Early on, one of the first initiatives we launched was a Blue Ribbon Committee to improve the way we do business and get more jobs created, more housing built, and more infrastructure developed. We wanted to set the tone that Riverside County is not in the business of saying “no,” to be enablers instead of obstacles, and to refocus on customer service and shift the mentality and organizational culture. We have had nine of these meetings since May 2017. It’s been a pretty consistent forum for interaction with me and county staff with the Transportation & Land Management Agency as we pursue improved service. I am pleased we are producing results. Recognizing that time is money, we’ve made changes to several processes to save time and money for applicants. These are changes that have been relatively easy to implement and have come as ideas from individuals in this working group. The feedback that I have heard includes: “this is encouraging to see,” “I have seen real improvement” and “In 20 years of doing this, we’ve never had meetings like this.” Jurisdictions are following what we’re doing internally as a model for them to look at. With that said, we gladly welcome data on how we compare with other counties in California and how we can improve. I want to thank the Desert Valleys Builders Association and the Building Industry Association, Riverside County Chapter, for working with us and helping set a new culture of consultation, cooperation and collaboration to make improvements in our county development process. If you would like to be a part of these meetings, contact my office and we will send you meeting notices.

Our natural beauty and outdoor activities have been a staple of our tourism industry for years. Now the Desert Sun is reporting Palm Springs could soon join Los Angeles and the San Joaquin Valley with the dubious distinction of having the smoggiest air in the nation. Considering the issues we already have with the Salton Sea to the east, how big of a long-term threat does this pose? When it comes to air quality issues, it is important to recognize that air does not stop at the Coachella Valley

boundary or the county line. Being located downwind of the air basin, we are impacted by what blows into our airspace. As a member of the South Coast Air Quality Management District governing board, I review these challenges on a regular basis. The board meets monthly and I sit on the legislative, mobile source, stationary source and technology committees to ensure the Coachella Valley’s interests are heard and our air quality is protected. My priorities are public safety, economic development and quality of life. Quality of life is a measure that includes the environment and the ability to enjoy the beautiful, clean air and relaxed ambiance we all cherish. We should do all we can to protect the environment and air quality, especially when we have access to improved technology with greater environmental benefits. The Coachella Valley’s air quality needs are well known to the South Coast AQMD, which is committed to making our air cleaner to breathe – for our communities, families and children. I continue to work in the fight for clean air with environmental justice grassroots organizations such as Comite Civico del Valle, Alianza Coachella Valley, Leadership Counsel for Justice & Accountability, and Sierra Club My Generation Campaign.

Affordable family housing has long been an advantage the valley offers to help attract a labor force to the desert. It seems this is becoming an area of concern for us, your thoughts? We have a dire need for housing that people can afford: in the state, the County of Riverside and the communities of the Coachella Valley. Part of the challenge we have with homelessness is not having enough affordable housing and transition housing. In the valley, nearly 55 percent of renters pay over 30 percent of their income to rent, and are considered “rent-burdened.” To cut that proportion by one-third, we need an estimated 10,000 new housing units over the next 10 years. Last year, Riverside County and the nonprofit organization Lift to Rise received a $200,000 grant to fund a strategic effort. Lift to Rise and the Riverside County Economic Development Agency are working to ease the burden of housing costs on Coachella Valley families and help find solutions. We held a housing summit last fall, and we want to have a follow-up summit with developers to better understand their needs and the overall plan for infrastructure so we can build housing, particularly in the eastern Coachella Valley. 25

The County has a massive budget to try and wrangle with every year. What are some areas you would like to see spending increased or decreased that would help our valley? As one of five Supervisors, I oversee a government of over 20,000 employees in 40 plus departments and a $5.5 billion budget. The budget process involves some of the toughest decisions to best allocate resources. I approach the budget process with a focus on economic development, public safety and quality of life. It is important to invest resources to grow our economy, ensure that our residents remain protected and well served, and fund important safety net programs for seniors and families. As monies becomes available, my desire is to increase the budget so we have more social workers, public safety in the unincorporated areas, infrastructure, and community health centers in all our communities.

What have you enjoyed the most about your work? In so many instances, I have seen the positive impact that county agencies have in assisting our residents and the difference they make in the community with services and projects. I am gratified to see how many of our county employees truly enjoy their jobs and are extremely hard working and caring. I appreciate staff at all levels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we are a county family. While it takes quite a bit of work to address the challenges that we have, reaching out and working with everyone is moving the needle.

About Supervisor Perez Victor Manuel Perez was appointed by Gov. Edmund G. Brown Jr. on May 9, 2017 to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors, representing the Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fourth District, and was subsequently elected to a four-year term in June 2018. The Fourth Supervisorial District covers the eastern two-thirds of Riverside County, stretching from Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs, south to the Salton Sea and east to Blythe and the Colorado River. His office can be reached at district4@rivco. org, or by calling (760) 863-821

CHANDIGROUPUSA.COM

NOW BOOKING! 47 ACRE SPACE AVAILABLE FOR RENT

CONTACT TO INQUIRE ABOUT: Concerts Weddings Quinceaneras Family Reunions Sporting Events and Festivals!

ON THE GROUNDS OF SPOTLIGHT 29 CASINO 46-200 Harrison Place | Coachella, CA 92236

Contact Jennifer Van Horn: 760-397-5672

We are proud to oﬃcially be part of the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce What is the American Advertising Federation? • Brings members together to deliver creative business solutions • Keeps members abreast of the latest trends in technology, creativity and marketing • Promotes diversity and inclusion in advertising • Honors and celebrates advertising excellence • Develops the industry’s future leaders • Protects and promotes advertising at all levels of government through grassroots activities • Oﬀers engaging programs to encourage local association volunteer leadership • Utilizes industry expertise to address community issues • Provides opportunities for professionals to build supportive relationships with others in the advertising industry

760-347-0676 | GCVCC.ORG | INFO@GCVCC.ORG 28

Complete Care & W Compen Servi

Complete Urgent Care & Workers Compensation Services.

Investing in

the Coachella Valley

Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa Rancho Mirage

Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs

Indian Canyons Golf Resort

Cultural Center - Opening 2020

Tahquitz Canyon

Indian Canyons

aguacaliente-nsn.gov 30

The brands, you love the family you trust.

Serving the Valley’s automotive needs since 1938.

JessupAutoPlaza.com | 844.845.3108

sce.com

www.lgsprimesteakhouse.com/reservations

e•mer•gen•cy – noun

a sudden, urgent, usually unexpected occurrence or occasion requiring immediate action As a REACH member, you’ll have financial peace of mind knowing that for as little as $85 a year, you’ll have no out-of-pocket flight cost for our services during an emergency. To learn more or qualify for possible discounts, call: Kellie Kennedy Local Membership Sales Manager 760.218.0802 Learn more at www.AMCNRep.com/Kellie-Kennedy

Featuring over 30 of the areas most talented salon and spa professionals providing salon services in private, luxury salon suites. PhenixSalonDesertCities.com 760.777.4190

46650 Adams Street, Suite A La Quinta, CA 92253

phenixcoachella2@gmail.com

760-347-0676 | www.GCVCC.org | info@gcvcc.org 31

FOR SPONSORSHIP & VENDOR OPPORTUNITIES HELLO@DATEHARVESTFEST.COM

e t a d t s e v r ha st fe

d o o f N A S I T R LOCAL A LIVE MUSIC s & history g n i t s a t e t da noon - 10pm all ages Entry $10

hosted by 32

nov

Rancho Las Flores Park Van buren & 48th, Coachella, CA