In recent weeks, Palm Springs Police Chief Andy Mills has demonstrated how the right words and decisive actions can serve as a source of comfort, unity and reassurance in challenging times. In just a few days, Chief Mills showcased a leadership style that blends empathy with accountability, proving the profound impact of thoughtful communication backed by meaningful deeds.
Two distinct events illustrate Chief Mills’ approach to leadership. The first occurred during a city of Palm Springs forum to address community concerns in the wake of Donald Trump’s presidential re-election. The forum allowed residents to share their anxieties, learn about the city’s safety efforts, and engage with local leadership.
Taking the stage, Chief Mills delivered a poignant message: “We have a choice, and the choice is we can stand strong, or we can be filled with anxiety. I say together, shoulder to shoulder, and hip to hip, let’s stand strong.”
His words—“shoulder to shoulder, and hip to hip”—were vivid, evocative and inspiring. Chief Mills painted a picture of solidarity, encouraging neighbors to stand united, resolute and unshaken. Rejecting fear and trepidation, his message exuded confidence and resolve: We’ve got this.
Chief Mills followed those remarks by detailing steps his department is taking to combat hate incidents. These measures include the adoption of advanced technologies for faster, more-effective investigations, and enhanced data collection to identify and address patterns of hate-related behavior. Calling this approach “avant-garde,” Mills sent a clear message: Come forward. We will listen, and we will act.
Underlying his words was a profound reminder of shared humanity. Chief Mills emphasized that regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, age, political ideology, socio-economic standing or immigration status, we are all are all part of the human condition; we are the people of the great Coachella Valley, and above all, we are Americans, a country forged by dreams, ingenuity, grit, determination and individuality. We’re a great big imperfect nation that for close to 250 years has moved forward to build an American dream for all, sometimes taking two steps forward, and one back, but always forward. Mills reminds us that amidst all of the noise, the specter of what may happen next, and the grinding of teeth, we can live our lives and treat others with respect despite our differences.
The second instance of Chief Mills’ leadership came following an unexpected and tragic moment during the annual Festival of Lights Parade on the picturesque evening of Dec. 7. Thousands of people lined Palm Canyon; marching bands played carols; and floats and huge balloons glided down the street. One of the area’s favorite residents, Nancy Sinatra, waved to the crowds. Then suddenly, a Palm Springs Police Department motorcycle officer lost control and veered into the crowd, injuring himself and 11 others.
That same evening, Chief Mills publicly addressed the incident, and in part stated: “I feel terrible about the accident and injuries to the very people we protect. I am deeply concerned and hope for a thorough recovery. (California Highway Patrol) has been asked to conduct a complete traffic investigation and we will conduct an administrative investigation. As chief of police, I am responsible for this department and the men and women who serve. After we conduct our investigations, I will report back to the community. Again, I am truly sorry.”
In one short statement, he addressed the situation with clarity, honesty, empathy, contrition, action, transparency—and ultimately with full accountability.
As the chief asks for the best of ourselves in uncertain times, he knows that the ultimate way to achieve this is for leaders to lead by example.
Rob Wilcox is a Palm Desert resident and president of Rob Wilcox Communications. He is a seasoned professional with more than three decades of experience in government and the private sector. He can be reached at RWcommunications@outlook.com.
I couldn’t agree more. Palm Springs has a treasure in Chief Mills.