compared to Riverside County, which had a rate of 6.0%. Worldwide issues such as inflation and supply-chain constraints presented a new set of challenges over the course of the fiscal year, and the City continues to face such challenges through the same lens of fiscal responsibility and sound financial practices that have proven successful in the past. Despite such challenges, the City of Palm Desert continued to provide exceptional services and amenities to residents throughout the course of the year.
In June 2025, the City Council approved a total of $67.11 million in funding for various capital improvement projects for Fiscal Year 2025-26. Projects include resurfacing streets, median landscaping, sidewalk repairs and construction, accessibility improvements, street widening, improving drainage areas, park improvements, and construction for Fire Station 102 and the City's new Library facility.
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) awarded a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the City of Palm Desert for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. This was the 27th consecutive year that the City has achieved this prestigious award. To receive the Certificate of Achievement, a government must publish an easily readable and efficiently organized annual comprehensive financial report. This report must satisfy both generally accepted accounting principles and applicable legal requirements.
A Certificate of Achievement is valid for a period of one year only. We believe that our current annual comprehensive financial report continues to meet the Certificate of Achievement Program's requirements and we are submitting it to the GFOA to determine its eligibility for another certificate.
The preparation of this report is attributable to the efficient and dedicated staff of the Finance Department who are individually recognized on the title page. The Mayor and the City Council are credited for their support in planning and conducting the operations of the City in a prudent, responsible and progressive manner. Recognition is also given to all employees of the City of Palm Desert who continue to serve our community with commitment and dedication throughout the year. Our greatest appreciation goes to you, the residents of Palm Desert, for your continued support, input, and guidance in helping us serve you better, thus preserving our city's quality of life and reputation for innovation and leadership.
Respectfully submitted,
Signed by: Chris Escobedo 883A8CB34D6340A... Chris Escobedo City Manager
Signed by: Veronica Chavez 06489C3DD08D432... Veronica Chavez Director of Finance
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