Palm Desert approves regional public safety information center, delays drone program vote
PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Desert City Council approved a regional real-time information center Tuesday in a 4-1 vote, while delaying a decision on a proposed drone-as-first-responder program until January.
The information center would be located inside the Riverside County Sheriff’s Palm Desert Station. It would allow officials to monitor live video feeds, mapping and other public safety information in one location.
The project is expected to cost about $1.2 million, with Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells each covering roughly one-third of the cost.
The proposed drone program would allow deputies to remotely deploy drones to emergencies and calls for service, giving them an aerial view of a situation before arriving.
But the proposal raised concerns among residents about privacy, cybersecurity and how the technology could be accessed and used.
During the meeting, council members also questioned Sheriff’s Department officials about safeguards to prevent unauthorized access. Officials said department policies are in place to address misuse.
The Sheriff’s Office said the drones would be used to respond to calls and emergencies, not for routine aerial patrols over neighborhoods. Officials also said the program would not use facial recognition.
Some council members supported the technology, saying it could help deputies gather information and respond more safely during emergencies.
The proposed drone program could cost up to $4.5 million over five years. Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells are still working out how to divide the cost.
The council delayed the drone program vote until January to allow more time for public outreach.
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