The tragic Los Angeles wildfires will undoubtedly shock our already strained affordable housing crisis in California. We will watch to see if a measurable number of those unfortunate households who lost everything will come to the Coachella Valley for a new start. I'm afraid, however, that this tragedy will only exacerbate the problems of housing [...]
Regional economic development depends on cooperation. It cannot be done alone. Over the last year, I have collaborated with Sean Smith, Visit Greater Palm Springs (VGPS)’ Director of Economic Development. VGPS generously purchased a database helping both of our agencies better understand the industry sectors and jobs specific to the Coachella Valley. Sean and I [...]
It’s 2025! And this is the year of CVEP’s reinvention. We are so excited about the new initiatives and efforts that have emerged from our comprehensive strategic planning. A central theme of this planning was listening – humbly asking our constituents, partners, board, and the public what they would like to see from a new [...]
Presenting at our 20th Annual Greater Palm Springs Summit was a real thrill and honor. Thanks to all of you who attended. It was my hope and intention to share with you the intrinsic challenges and opportunities in gathering local economic and demographic data for our Valley. Our 84-page 2024 Greater Palm Springs Economic Report [...]
The Coachella Valley includes 9 incorporated cities within its informal border. This translates to nine different and ever-changing governing bodies, nine different cultures and vibes, nine different housing affordabilities and offerings - the list goes on. But are these independent entities truly independent? Are we in the habit of focusing too much on differences and [...]
Happy Anniversary CVEP! On November 19, we celebrate the 20th year of our Annual Economic Summit. For two decades, CVEP has hosted the preeminent economic event of the Coachella Valley. This year's Summit will highlight twenty years of change in the Valley. Moreover, we will preview our new strategies and goals spearheaded by Laura James's [...]
It's that time of year again for CVEP staff. We're busily preparing for our annual Economic Summit. The summit is going to be a little different this year. With renewed energy, new leadership, and the celebration of 20 years of the Summit, we have some exciting changes and initiatives to share. We encourage all to [...]
Over the last few months, I have been honored to participate in planning the Desert Health Care District's first Healthy Desert - Healthy You Summit. This first summit concentrates on Environmental Health. The summit is free. I would urge all to attend. A roster of amazing speakers will explore "empowering the community through resilient environments." [...]
Last Wednesday was a treat. The effervescent Karin Jaffie, from Friends of the Desert Mountains, gave a lively and informative presentation for our monthly Morning Insights gathering. On the second Wednesday of every month, valley entrepreneurs and innovators meet at CVEP's office to exchange ideas and network about our regional economy. Eye-opening presentations from local [...]
The Coachella Valley is not a stereotypically "classic" region for regional economic development. We don't have one powerhouse major city that anchors the region. For instance, despite being about the same population size as the Savannah Regional Economic Development Authority, our regions are not alike. Instead, we have 9 unique cities often vying for limited [...]
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