Nothing drags down a neighborhood quite like a row of empty storefronts. We've all driven past them—dark windows, faded signs, and businesses that never seem to come back. Now, the City of Indio is saying enough is enough.
City leaders have approved a new ordinance requiring owners of vacant commercial properties to register those buildings with the city, keep them maintained, and meet security standards while they sit empty. The goal is pretty simple: reduce blight, discourage vandalism, and make those spaces more attractive to future businesses instead of letting them become eyesores.
The panel largely agreed it's a step in the right direction. Doug Baker said cities already have plenty of rules on the books, but believes they actually need to enforce them. At the end of the day, he says communities can't afford to let abandoned buildings become a stain on the neighborhood.
Jamiee Baker was even more enthusiastic, praising Indio for thinking outside the box and holding property owners accountable. She even managed to sneak in a playful jab at neighboring Coachella, suggesting other cities could learn a thing or two from Indio's approach.
But fixing empty storefronts isn't just about ordinances. The conversation quickly turned to the bigger question: Why are so many businesses closing in the first place?
Doug didn't hesitate. He believes online shopping has completely changed the game. Why spend an afternoon wandering through a shopping mall when you can tap a few buttons on your phone and have almost anything delivered to your doorstep the same day—or the next?
Fred agreed, pointing out how dramatically consumer habits have shifted. Even buying a car isn't what it used to be. Instead of spending a Saturday walking dealership lots, many people now browse online, click a few buttons, and have the vehicle delivered right to their driveway.
That's the challenge facing cities everywhere. Keeping storefronts clean and secure is important, but filling them with thriving businesses may be the harder task. As shopping habits continue to evolve, communities like Indio are trying to make sure empty buildings don't become permanent fixtures—and that local business districts stay inviting for whatever comes next.
By: NBC Palm Springs
July 17, 2026
