Meet Ernest - Community Leader
Since moving to Palm Springs with his husband, Bill, Ernest soon learned the definition of “community”. With a strong sense of fellowship and acceptance in the city, he now wanted to give back, making sure others experienced the same.
As a representative for District 4 and the city of Palm Springs, Ernest naturally brings the skills needed to work with the wonderful residents of Palm Springs, city council and staff, and committees and public services alike, to continue to enhance our wellbeing, in a structured, transparent, methodical approach. He will secure sound financial decisions, rooted in compliance, while ensuring that the greater community’s quality of life thrives.
TAHQUITZ CREEK GOLF NEIGHBORHOOD ORGANITZATION 2021 - Current
Chairman
Has lead a Palm Springs organized neighborhood Board for 3 years. Has prided himself on ensuring he remained connected with the community by forming relationships, in order to understand their needs. Worked diligently with Palm Springs Police and Fire Dept, city council members and staff, and the community, to address the root cause that initiated multiple fires within the neighborhood. As crime began to rise, coordinated the research, presentation, execution and fundraising to install Flock Security license plate readers in the community, the first in Palm Springs. Chaired the neighborhood’s Modernism Week Committee to orchestrate the first Modernism Week Home Tour in 4 years, with the largest homeowner participation. Worked with local businesses such as Desert Water Agency and the Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort to sponsor the event. Proud honorary member of the Palm Springs Police Officers’ Association. Participated in the Riverside County Point-in-Time Homeless count. During Tropical Storm Hilary, provided updates to the neighborhood and assisted with preparation for flooding. Spoke at the General City Council meeting in support of clearing the homeless encampments from the Tahquitz Creek wash. Stays in continued communications with Palm Springs PD concerning the safety of the neighborhood bordering what has been referred to as the largest homeless encampment in Coachella Valley. Working to ensure that the Palm Springs Surf Club, once operational, remains compliant with the Palm Springs noise ordinance, to ensure the peacefulness in his community. Member of Democrats of the Desert. Completed the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. Organizes and presents at the annual neighborhood General meetings. Attended the PSFD 9/11 Remembrance - Never Forget. Coordinate neighborhood social events. Participated in the PSPD LGBTQ+ Outreach Committee Town Hall. Supports his local community leaders.
SAVE PS GOLF 2021 - Current
President
Formation of the non-profit organization, promoting the multiplier economic and social benefits of a municipal golf course: Accessibility = Diversity. Managed a Steering Committee of local community leaders through weekly meetings. Circulated online petition, gathering over 3,000 signatures for preserving the course. Worked with city staff to obtain and analyze the course financials. Coordinated a letter-writing campaign with the community to express their concerns to the city council. Attended local HOA meetings, to provide accurate and relevant updates. Participated in the 2021 Palm Springs Pride parade. Provided interviews with the Palm Springs Post, the Desert Sun, and the NY Times. Conducted multiple podcasts to bring awareness to the community. Author of media advisories.
Meet Ernest - Competitor
Most of his life, Ernest has frequented the gym. But it was not until 2017 when he was introduced to obstacle course racing (OCR) and he was immediately captivated by the sport. By 2019, Ernest was also competing in CrossFit and strongman competitions, in individual and team events throughout the Southwestern United States, while working full time as a compliance auditor. While training for a team event late 2019, Ernest had to curb his training due to a knee injury, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
No longer competing and retired from OCR, he now considers himself a garage warrior, as an amateur Power / Olympic-style Weightlifter. Ernest’s focus on mobility, technique, and strength gives him a sense of accomplishment with every milestone that is met. You can find Ernest in his main gym at home during the week, but on the weekends, he joins his gym community at Steel Gym, for motivation and to be social with friends.
Recreational activity, health, community, collaboration, accomplishments, and accountability are what Ernest stands for. Ernest’s core values are embedded in his physical training. It is through commitment, determination, patience, and self-realization that Ernest remains disciplined through six days a week of training, working full time, and being a community leader 24/7.
Let’s Talk
Let’s get together and discuss some of your concerns throughout the city, along with further questions about the campaign. Please fill in your information on the Endorsements page or email ernest@ernest4district4.com directly to schedule some time. Thank you.