06/26/2025
Issue 506

Celebrating Our Story: Preserving Cathedral City's Rich and Diverse Heritage

Cathedral City is more than its 1981 incorporation date—it's a place where history runs deep and culture thrives.

Long before the city officially became a city, this land was home to the Cahuilla Indians, who lived here for over 2,000 years. Their traditions, resilience, and relationship with the land continue to shape Cathedral City's identity. Later, the area drew artists and dreamers, many of whom found creative inspiration in the Cove, drawn by the desert's stark beauty and quiet mystique.

While few structural remnants of our past remain, our story is alive—and it matters. It resonates with anyone seeking meaning, community, and a sense of belonging. Today, as more people are drawn to something deeper than themselves, Cathedral City stands out not just for its landscape, but for its welcoming, inclusive spirit and its vibrant cultural roots.

The Historic Preservation Committee (HPC) is actively working to bring this story forward. In May, the HPC adopted a new Work Plan, a roadmap of projects that reflect the city's evolving identity and deep respect for its heritage. A few of the projects in the plan include:
  • Oral Histories: Capturing voices and stories of longtime residents, artists, and elders who shaped Cathedral City.
  • Public Outreach & Communication: Sharing our past through newsletters like this one, social media, and community storytelling.
  • Walking Tours: Inviting residents and visitors alike to explore the places that make up our shared history—from sacred lands to artist enclaves.
Mark Your Calendar: August 2025

This August, Cathedral City will host a commemorative event to mark 100 years since the first recorded map laying out the first official development of the city in 1925. This centennial celebration will honor the moment Cathedral City first began taking shape on paper—a reminder that our place in the desert has long been recognized and remembered.

Why does this matter to you?

Because history isn't just about the past—it's about who we are now, and who we're becoming. Preserving and sharing Cathedral City's story helps us build deeper connections to one another and the place we call home. It reminds us that we're part of something bigger—a legacy of creativity, resilience, and community that continues to unfold.

Stay tuned for more details about the centennial celebration, and how you can be part of honoring Cathedral City's remarkable journey.



Andrew Firestine
Director of Community and Economic Development
(760) 770-0344
afirestine@cathedralcity.gov

Cynthia Schultz
Associate Planner
(760) 770-0386
cschultz@cathedralcity.gov

City of Cathedral City Approves Community Arts and Assistance Grant Awards for FY 2025/26

The City of Cathedral City continues its commitment to supporting local organizations and fostering community enrichment through two distinct grant programs for the upcoming fiscal year. Community Arts Grant Program: $20,000 Supporting Creative Expression The City Council has approved $20,000 in awards through the Community Arts Grant Program, supporting six …Read more

City Manager Charles McClendon Announces Retirement from City of Cathedral City After 11 Years of Transformative Leadership

After 11 years of dedicated service to the City of Cathedral City, City Manager Charles P. McClendon has announced his retirement, with his final day set for September 19, 2025. McClendon, who is known throughout the community as Charlie, has been a transformative leader during his tenure. McClendon's tenure, which began on March 3 …Read more

CONE ZONE ALERT: Major Lane Restrictions Continue Through July 11, 2025, at Cathedral Cove Center

Cathedral City drivers should prepare for significant traffic impacts starting Monday, June 16, 2025, as construction begins on critical infrastructure improvements at the Cathedral Cove center area. Construction Details Beginning Monday, June 16th and continuing through Friday, July 11th, eastbound traffic on the main thoroughfare will be reduced to a single …Read more

Join the Cathedral City Police Officers Association for Annual Back to School Bash - July 24, 2025

Free School Supplies Giveaway and Family Fun Event The Cathedral City Police Officers Association is excited to invite families to this year's Back to School Bash, a free community event designed to help local students prepare for the upcoming school year while enjoying a day of family fun. Event Details Date: Thursday, July 24, 2025 Time…Read more

Experience Broadway Magic: CVRep's 2025 Summer Cabaret Series Returns to Downtown Cathedral City

Grand performances, great music and personality-plus make the COACHELLA VALLEY REPERTORY 2025 SUMMER CABARET SERIES among the very best ways to enjoy Downtown Cathedral City. CVRep has scheduled 16 memorable evenings of award-winning talent, vivacious personalities, music and song, levity, and stories that are just waiting to…Read more

Summer Fireworks Reminder: All Fireworks Remain Strictly Prohibited in Cathedral City

As we approach the Fourth of July holiday, the Cathedral City Fire and Police Departments want to remind all residents and visitors that all fireworks remain strictly prohibited within city limits. This comprehensive ban includes consumer fireworks, sparklers, and any other pyrotechnic devices. Serious Penalties for Violations The use or possession of fireworks in Cathedral City …Read more

Dive Into Summer Fun: Cathedral City, DRD, and PSUSD Partner for Pool Season

Get ready to make a splash this summer! The Cathedral City High School pool is set to open for the 2025 season, offering residents a refreshing escape from the desert heat. Thanks to the continued partnership between the City of Cathedral City, Palm Springs Unified School District, and Desert Recreation District, local families will once again have …Read more

"Free Summer Kids Movie Series" Returns to Mary Pickford Theatre Every Friday Through August 1, 2025

The Cathedral City Parks and Community Events Commission (PACE), in partnership with the Mary Pickford Theatre, presents the return of the "Free Summer Kids Movie Series" happening every Friday at 10:00 a.m. starting Friday, June 13, 2025, through Friday, August 1, 2025. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. The film series offers free admission to see a different movie …Read more

Cathedral City Library Continues as Official Cooling Center for Summer 2025

Are you looking for relief from the summer heat? The Cathedral City Library, located at 33520 Date Palm Drive, will once again serve as the official Riverside County Community Action Partnership (CAP) cooling center in Cathedral City. The cooling center will be open June 1 – October 15, 2025. Hours of Operation: Normal Library Hours Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday …Read more

Bereavement Support Group

Thursdays
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Location: Cathedral City Senior Center 37171 W. Buddy Rogers Ave, Cathedral City, CA 92234 Find comfort and understanding at our weekly Bereavement Support Group facilitated by Serenity Hospice. This compassionate gathering provides a safe space for those experiencing grief after the loss of a loved one. The group offers participants the …Read more

Free Kids Summer Movie Series 2025

Fridays Through August 1, 2025

The Cathedral City Parks and Community Events Commission (PACE), in partnership with the Mary Pickford Theatre, presents the return of the “Free Summer Kids Movie Series” happening every Friday at 10:00 a.m. starting Friday, June 13, 2025, through Friday, August 1, 2025. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. The film series offers free admission to see a different movie …Read more

Amateur Radio “Field Day”

June 28, 2025

WHAT: Members of the Desert RATS Amateur Radio Club and Coachella Valley Amateur Radio Emergency Service will be participating in the national amateur radio Field Day Event, June 28, 2025, at the Cathedral City Library from 11am to 4pm. Since 1933, ham radio operators across North America have established temporary ham radio stations in public locations during Field Day to …Read more

Dive-Into the FUN!

Various Dates in July 2025

Join in a weekend of FREE water fun in Cathedral City! The Splash Bash and movie in the park on July 18th and Dive-in Movie from the pool on July 19th. Also planned is the 1st Annual Swim Meet (Adults on July 16th and Youth on July 25th.) Registration fee for the Swim Meet is $20 ...Read more

Back to School Bash 2025

July 24, 2025

The Cathedral City Police Officers Association is excited to see you for this year's Back to School Bash on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 68526 Ave Lalo Guerrero in Cathedral City! School supplies will be distributed to elementary students from all Cathedral City schools from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There will be water slides, music, crafts & games, and …Read more

11th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival

11th Annual Cathedral City International Hot Air Balloon Festival November 21-23, 2025 Join us for three days of spectacular hot air balloon displays, family entertainment, and live music at Cathedral City's internationally acclaimed signature event. Listed among the Top 14 Hot Air Balloon Festivals by US News & World Report and winner of the prestigious Palm Award for Visitor …Read more

Employment

BUILDING INSPECTOR I/II
CITIZENS ON PATROL (COP)
FIRE BATTALION CHIEF
FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC
POLICE CADET
POLICE OFFICER - LATERAL/ACADEMY GRADUATE
POLICE OFFICER RECRUIT
PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER - PART-TIME
PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER I
PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCHER II
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