Kimberly Barraza to lead Desert Healthcare District Board in 2026 as JFK gears up for renovations

The Desert Healthcare District and Foundation (DHCD) Board of Directors elected Kimberly Barraza at its Tuesday evening meeting to serve as board president for 2026.

Barraza joined the board in 2022 and previously served as a senior district representative and policy advisor for former State Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia and she now represents Zone 6 of the Desert Healthcare District, which covers the majority of Indio. 

DHCD is a local government agency whose board members are elected directly by residents. In combination with its nonprofit foundation, the district funds health initiatives throughout the valley. 

“I am honored to serve as Board President of the Desert Healthcare District and Foundation,” President Barraza said in a written statement. “Our region continues to face significant health challenges, and this role comes with a responsibility to lead with transparency, collaboration, and a deep commitment to equity. I look forward to working alongside my fellow Board members, staff, and community partners to strengthen access to care, invest in prevention, and ensure our resources are used in ways that truly improve health outcomes for the residents of the Coachella Valley.”

A key component of the district’s mission involves its ongoing partnership with the Desert Care Network, which includes JFK Memorial Hospital. The hospital is slated for a massive $60 million expansion of its emergency department and admitting areas to better serve the growing population of the East Valley.

Meanwhile, the district is currently moving to fill a vacancy in Zone 5, which encompasses parts of Northwest Indio, including the Heritage Palms and Shadow Hills golf club communities.

The board has announced candidates will be interviewed and a member will be appointed during the public board meeting on Jan. 8. The new member will serve for approximately 10 months. The position will be up for election next year on Nov. 3, and whoever is elected will serve a two-year term.

Check out who represents you by using the interactive map (be sure to select the Hummingbird map in the top right corner.)

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