In the upcoming election, two seasoned leaders, Ted Weill and Michael O’Keefe, stand as incumbents for Rancho Mirage City Council, each bringing a deep commitment to the community they love.
While technically in competition, their mutual respect and shared dedication to the city’s future have led them to endorse one another. This unique collaboration underscores their belief in putting the community above all else and recognizing that Rancho Mirage’s success is about continuing the legacy of excellence that defines the city.
Ted remains fully dedicated to leading Rancho Mirage. Building the level of excellence our residents and businesses enjoy, keeping our neighborhoods safe with double the public safety officers than the national average. Guiding the city through thoughtful development and a broad spectrum of housing, and maintaining a balanced budget and strong financial reserves.
Looking ahead, Ted is focused on the 1,700-home Cotino project, which will be transformative not only for Rancho Mirage, but the entire Coachella Valley. The annexation of 276 acres of Agua Caliente land, in our sphere of influence, will add jobs due to the anticipated housing, commercial, and hospitality development.
Ted Weill: Leadership & Vision
Ted Weill’s 12-year tenure on the Rancho Mirage City Council, including two terms as Mayor, has been marked by a steadfast commitment to the city. His leadership has been instrumental in maintaining balanced budgets and ensuring the financial health of Rancho Mirage. Ted’s fiscal prudence has kept the city’s reserves strong, enabling continued investment in projects that enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses.
Some of Ted’s key achievements include the dedication of the Rancho Mirage Community Park and Amphitheater, the groundbreaking and ribbon cutting for the Observatory, the revitalization of the Ritz Carlton, paying off unfunded pension liabilities to save interest, the establishment of the finest luxury auto corridor in the Coachella Valley, support for the creation of the Rancho Mirage Writer’s Festival, approval of the turf and solar rebate programs, revitalization of the Rancho Las Palmas Shopping Center, support for the expansion of Eisenhower Health, and partnerships with the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce and Visit Greater Palm Springs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ted’s leadership was vital in supporting the Great Plates Program, which provided daily meals to vulnerable seniors while bolstering local restaurants. This initiative exemplified his ability to respond to crises with solutions that benefit the entire community.
Michael O’Keefe: A Passionate Advocate for Progress
Michael O’Keefe brings a unique blend of experience and passion to his role on City Council. As a full-time resident of 26 years in the Coachella Valley with a diverse career spanning business management and mental health, Michael deeply understands the community’s needs. Since making Rancho Mirage his permanent home in 2019, he has been committed to preserving its cultural and architectural legacy while working towards a secure future for the city.
Appointed to the City Council in 2023, Michael has quickly established himself as a dedicated leader. His focus on fiscal health, public safety, environmental stewardship, and enhancing the city’s infrastructure reflects his holistic approach to governance. Michael was instrumental in developing the city’s Wireless Master Plan, aimed at enhancing cell phone reception.
His work in promoting tourism and supporting local businesses has been crucial in sustaining Rancho Mirage’s economic vitality. His advocacy for cultural programs, such as his affiliation with the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory, underscores his commitment to enriching the community’s cultural life. Michael serves as the city’s representative to the Joslyn Center for seniors and the Animal Campus. He is particularly excited about the upcoming Rancho Mirage Rescue Rally on October 12 at the Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory, the event will offer free pet adoptions, neutering, spaying, microchipping, and vaccinations, showcasing his commitment to animal welfare.
Michael’s dedication to sustainable development is evident in his support for workforce housing initiatives, turf replacement, and solar panel rebates. His involvement with the Rancho Mirage Energy Authority and the CVAG Conservation Commission demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that Rancho Mirage remains a leader in sustainability.
A Unified Vision for Rancho Mirage’s Future
While Ted Weill and Michael O’Keefe are running individual campaigns, their mutual respect and endorsement of each other underscores their unwavering focus on what’s best for Rancho Mirage.
Ted, a long-standing pillar of the City Council, appreciates Michael’s dedication, saying, “Michael was an outstanding member of the Cultural Commission before he was appointed to fill the vacancy of a retiring Council Member. During his almost full year on the Council, he has demonstrated a willingness to become involved in all aspects of the city. He is the second most experienced candidate in this election. He works very well with his colleagues and staff, and I look forward to working with him in the future after we are both elected.”
Michael expresses deep respect for Ted’s guidance, noting, “Ted has more institutional knowledge about the city than anyone I know. His years of dedicated service have been invaluable, and his influence has shaped my approach to leadership.”
Both candidates share a vision of a city that continues to thrive, where public safety, fiscal responsibility, and a high quality of life are central to every decision. Their combined experience and passion ensure that Rancho Mirage will not only preserve its unique character but also embrace opportunities for growth and innovation. Their partnership is a powerful reminder that the future of the city is brightest when its leaders work together, united by a common purpose.
