June 25, 2026 Planning Commission - City of Rancho Mirage

The City of Rancho Mirage Planning Commission held a regular meeting on June 25, 2026, primarily to discuss a zoning text amendment (Z2A26-00002) related to wireless communication facilities. The amendment proposes streamlined, staff-level review procedures for the placement of new wireless towers on designated preferred sites, many of which are city-owned properties. This change aims to expedite the permitting process, potentially reducing approval times by nine months to a year, to improve cellular coverage in the city as identified in a previously adopted wireless master plan. The commission heard extensive public comments expressing concerns about the removal of city council oversight, potential visual impacts, health and safety issues, and the adequacy of public notification. Staff clarified that no specific tower construction is guaranteed by the ordinance and that proposals would still require findings and could be subject to public hearings if necessary. The discussion also touched on legal considerations, environmental exemptions, and the importance of improved wireless coverage for public safety. No final vote on the zoning amendment was recorded during the meeting.