Palm Desert council appoints Evan Truby mayor; Perdeto chosen mayor pro tem after straw draw

The Palm Desert City Council unanimously appointed Evan Truby mayor for 2026 and selected Councilmember Perdeto as mayor pro tem following a tie-break procedure on Dec. 11.

After staff explained the city's rotation policy (Resolution 25-069), a motion to appoint Evan Truby as mayor was moved, seconded and approved in a recorded roll-call vote that registered five 'yes' votes and no opposition. Truby, speaking after the vote, thanked his colleagues and told the council he would "discharge my duties faithfully, thoughtfully, and with honor," and pledged to serve the city.

Three councilmembers were tied for mayor pro tem priority under the rotation rules. Two members said they would defer their priority, but to preserve fairness the council proceeded with a drawing of straws administered by the city clerk. Councilmember Perdeto drew the longest straw and was identified as the mayor pro tem designee. The council then moved to formalize the appointment and voted 5-0 to confirm Perdeto in the role.

The actions formalize the city's leadership lineup for the coming year and follow the council's rotation procedures. The council recessed briefly after the appointments to reorganize the dais and continue the evening's agenda.

Next steps: the appointments were procedural and effective immediately; the council will carry its new leadership into meetings scheduled in the new year.