The City Clerk's Office is here to protect the integrity of the Democratic Process. It serves members of the public, City Council, City staff, representatives of related local, state, and national agencies by providing accurate and current information on City Council and administrative actions. To carry out its duties, the City Clerk's Office is required to conform with statutes such as the Ralph M. Brown Act (Open Meetings), California Public Records Act, and the Political Reform Act of 1974 (Conflicts of Interest).

Palm Desert is served by a City Clerk who is appointed by the City Council. The City Clerk's Office is responsible for coordinating and preparing City Council Agendas and Minutes and for maintaining official City records. Municipal Elections are conducted by the City Clerk's Office. Palm Desert's City Clerk also serves as Secretary to the Redevelopment Agency, Housing and Financing Authorities. The City Clerk's Office coordinates all appointments by the City Council to City legislative and advisory bodies.

Virtually any request for City information or assistance begins with contact to the City Clerk's office.