Winter rain in Southern California may be brief, but the damage it leaves behind can impact your property’s appearance, safety, and long-term maintenance costs.
From debris-filled parking lots to stained sidewalks and clogged drains, post-storm cleanup is not just cosmetic, it’s preventative maintenance that protects your asset.
Here’s why storm cleanup and surface cleaning should be a priority after winter weather, and how CAM Property Services help your property stay protected.

Why Winter Rain Creates Hidden Risks

Even moderate rainfall can lead to:

• Mud and debris tracked into buildings
• Oil stains rising to the surface in parking lots
• Clogged storm drains and water pooling
• Slippery walkways and liability hazards
• Landscape erosion and irrigation disruption
• Mold or mildew buildup in shaded areas

Left untreated, these issues can lead to tenant complaints, safety concerns, and costly repairs.

1. Parking Lot & Exterior Surface Cleaning

Rain pulls oil, dirt, and contaminants to the surface of asphalt and concrete. Once the water evaporates, stains remain, and so does potential liability.

CAM Property Services provides:

• Parking lot sweeping
• Pressure washing
• Oil stain removal
• Sidewalk and curb cleaning
• Entryway and storefront washing

Routine surface cleaning not only improves curb appeal but also extends the lifespan of your pavement.

2. Storm Debris & Junk Removal

After high winds and rain, properties often experience:

• Fallen branches
• Landscape debris
• Overflowing trash enclosures
• Bulk waste accumulation

CAM’s Junk Removal & Hauling services quickly clear debris to restore safety and visual appeal — especially important for retail centers and multifamily communities.

3. Drainage & Compliance Protection

Clogged drains and debris buildup can lead to:

• Standing water
• Asphalt deterioration
• Slip-and-fall hazards
• Stormwater compliance issues

CAM offers proactive exterior maintenance and site inspections to help properties remain compliant and avoid preventable damage.

4. Landscape Restoration After Rain

Heavy rain can compact soil, disrupt irrigation systems, and expose roots.

CAM’s Landscaping Maintenance & Drought Solutions include:

• Irrigation system inspections
• Soil and erosion control
• Plant replacement
• Seasonal landscape adjustments

Addressing these issues early prevents larger repair costs heading into spring and summer.

5. Preventative Maintenance = Cost Savings

Post-storm cleanup isn’t just about appearance, it protects your long-term budget.

Benefits include:

• Extending pavement life
• Reducing slip-and-fall risk
• Preventing water damage
• Improving tenant satisfaction
• Maintaining property value

February and early spring are ideal times to assess storm impact and schedule preventative cleaning before temperatures rise.

Why Choose CAM Property Services

CAM Property Services provides full-service commercial property maintenance throughout the Southern California, including:

• Landscaping Maintenance & Installation
• Janitorial & Day Porter Services
• Pressure Washing & Steam Cleaning
• Parking Lot Sweeping
• Junk Removal & Hauling
• ADA Remediation & CASp Support
• Drone Inspections & Thermal Imaging
• Building Maintenance & Repairs

Instead of coordinating multiple vendors, property managers can rely on one trusted partner to handle storm cleanup efficiently and professionally.

Protect Your Property After the Storm

Winter rain may be temporary, but the impact on your property can last if not addressed promptly.
If your commercial property, HOA, retail center, or multifamily community needs post-storm cleanup or preventative surface cleaning, CAM Property Services is ready to help.
Schedule a site assessment today and protect your property before spring.

January often brings change in commercial real estate. New property owners take over assets, property managers take over new portfolios, and service contracts come under review. While evaluating vendors is a natural part of any transition, one critical factor is often overlooked: the value of continuity and established processes. Working with a property maintenance service provider that has documented systems, institutional knowledge, and consistent execution can protect asset value, reduce risk, and ensure a smooth transition, especially during times of change.

The Hidden Cost of Vendor Disruption

Changing vendors during a property transition may seem like a fresh start, but it often comes with unintended consequences. New vendors require time to learn site-specific needs, service histories, and tenant expectations. During that learning curve, properties can experience:

• Gaps in service coverage
• Inconsistent quality standards
• Delayed response times
• Missed maintenance issues
• Increased tenant complaints

Without continuity, even well-managed properties can quickly shift from proactive care to reactive problem-solving.

Why Processes Matter More Than Promises

Not all property service providers operate the same way. A process-driven company relies on documented workflows rather than individual personnel or informal practices. These processes ensure consistency regardless of ownership or management changes and typically include:

• Standardized inspections and maintenance schedules
• Quality control checks and accountability measures
• Clear escalation and reporting procedures
• Detailed service documentation and records
• Structured communication protocols

When processes are in place, service quality remains stable, even as leadership, ownership, or management evolves.

Continuity Protects Property Value and Performance

Established vendors bring historical insight that cannot be replaced overnight. Knowledge of a property’s systems, usage patterns, and recurring issues allows service providers to identify risks early and respond efficiently. Continuity helps:

• Prevent costly emergency repairs
• Maintain compliance with safety and accessibility standards
• Preserve curb appeal and common areas
• Support tenant satisfaction and retention
• Create predictable maintenance costs

For owners and managers focused on long-term asset performance, continuity is not a convenience; it’s a safeguard.

Why New Owners and Property Managers Benefit from Keeping the Right Vendor

Transitioning into a new role is demanding. Retaining a vendor with proven processes allows new owners and property managers to onboard faster and make informed decisions with confidence. Instead of starting from scratch, they gain immediate access to:

• Historical service data and maintenance trends
• Established site standards and expectations
• Existing communication and reporting systems
• A team already familiar with the property

This continuity provides stability during transition periods and allows leadership to focus on strategic goals rather than operational disruptions.

A Process-Driven Approach to Property Services

At CAM Property Services, consistency is built into every service we provide. Our team operates with structured systems designed to deliver reliable results across all property types. From janitorial and landscaping to building maintenance, pressure washing, ADA remediation, and specialized inspections, our process-driven approach ensures:

• Consistent service quality
• Clear documentation and reporting
• Proactive maintenance planning
• Seamless coordination across multiple services

Our focus is not just maintaining properties, but supporting the people responsible for them.

Start the Year with Stability

As properties change hands and management teams shift, continuity becomes more important than ever. Partnering with a vendor that already understands your property and has the processes in place to support it can make the difference between a smooth transition and unnecessary challenges.

January is the time to evaluate not just who you work with, but how they work.

CAM Property Services is committed to providing structured, dependable property maintenance that supports long-term success.

As temperatures rise, so do service requests, system strain, and tenant expectations. From our experience across multifamily and commercial portfolios, the properties that perform best in summer are the ones that prepare before the heat hits, not after.

Here are three areas that consistently separate reactive properties from well-run ones:

1. HVAC System Readiness

HVAC systems carry the heaviest load during summer and small issues tend to become major failures under sustained heat.

Routine inspections and filter replacements are essential, but what’s often overlooked is system performance under peak conditions. Units that appear functional in spring can struggle once temperatures spike.

A proactive approach now helps:

• Reduce emergency service calls
• Extend equipment life
• Maintain consistent comfort for tenants

2. Irrigation System Efficiency

Water usage typically increases during summer months, and inefficiencies can go unnoticed until bills rise or landscaping declines.

Common issues we see include:

• Misaligned sprinkler heads
• Leaks or overwatering in low-need areas
• Timers not adjusted for seasonal changes

Addressing these early not only reduces costs but also supports more sustainable landscape management — especially important in drought-conscious regions.

3. Planning Ahead for Fall & Winter

One of the most overlooked opportunities in property management is planning the next season before the current one peaks.

Summer is the ideal time to begin budgeting and scheduling for:

• Tree trimming and seasonal transitions
• Stormwater and drainage readiness
• Exterior repairs and preventative maintenance
• Parking lot repairs and resurfacing

Early planning allows for better vendor availability, more competitive pricing, and more thoughtful prioritization of capital and operational expenses.

A Practical Approach

The most effective property managers operate on a year-round maintenance strategy, not a seasonal checklist. Addressing immediate needs while planning ahead creates a more stable, predictable operation.

Proactive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding problems, it’s about creating consistency across your property, from cost control to tenant explaining

If you’re evaluating your summer readiness or planning ahead for the rest of the year, having a clear maintenance plan in place can make a measurable difference.

By David Herrera, President & CEO, CAM Property Services

“Used correctly, AI isn’t cheating. It’s leverage, and it pulled me back into strategic thinking.”

Every year, I commit to a Personal Annual Review,  not as a formality, but as a discipline. This year’s review was guided by a framework shared by Sahil Bloom. The seven questions themselves are simple. The honesty they demand is not.

This exercise forced clarity, and clarity drives progress. What follows is a candid reflection on the lessons, discomfort, and hard truths that defined my year.

1. What did I change my mind on this year?

I didn’t change my mind about leadership or leverage — but I realized I had spent too much time on non-strategic work. Execution had crowded out elevation.

I also did a complete 180 on ChatGPT. I once viewed AI as “cheating” or lazy. I was wrong. Used correctly, it’s leverage. Since the start of 2025, AI has improved productivity, decision-making, and strategic focus, pulling me back to where I can have the most impact.

I also rethought how we access talent. Virtual Assistants and hybrid/remote teams proved to be a highly capable resource pool when intentionally integrated. The contribution from a broader pool of A-players is real, but only when culture, communication, and workflows are deliberately designed to include them.

2. What created energy this year?

Strategic work energized me. Staying focused on direction and growth rather than getting lost in planning or execution was invigorating. Teaching leaders to think beyond their current role, and watching them grow comfortable with discomfort, reinforced a truth I’ve seen repeatedly: real progress comes from stepping outside comfort zones.

3. What drained energy this year?

The single biggest drain was losing client trust and business. Operational issues that lingered longer than they should have compounded that drain, especially when the same problems resurfaced.

Lesson: Repairing client trust after it’s lost is far more expensive than protecting it in the first place.

4. What were the “boat anchors” in my life?

The most significant boat anchors were employees resistant to change. In hindsight, delaying necessary disruption slowed growth.

I’ve always believed order comes out of chaos. I should have disrupted earlier to create the discomfort that produces superior outcomes.

5. What did I not do because of fear?

I waited too long to introduce necessary changes in people, structure, and accountability out of concern for instability.

This year reinforced a hard truth: stability without progress is not stability at all — it’s a culture killer.

6. Greatest hits and worst misses

Greatest Hits:

• Regaining strategic altitude and improving decision quality through AI
• Building leadership capacity and reinforcing accountability
• Re-centering my role on growth, not execution

Worst Misses:

• Allowing resistance to change to persist too long
• Waiting to force organizational resets
• Underestimating the cultural drag of unclear standards

Reminder: Discomfort isn’t a warning sign. It’s a prerequisite for growth.

7. What did I learn this year?

• Growth requires leaders at every level to think one level up.
• Clarity beats speed.
• Systems beat heroics.
• Strategy beats activity.

Fail fast, learn faster, move forward stronger.

This Personal Annual Review was uncomfortable, and that’s exactly why it mattered.

Editor’s Note:

At CAM Property Services, our vision is built on clarity, accountability, and continuous evolution. This reflection from President and CEO David Herrera offers insight into the leadership principles and lessons shaping our long-term strategy, strengthening our culture, and guiding how we deliver exceptional value to our clients and communities.

As we reach the halfway point of the year, property managers have a valuable opportunity to pause, evaluate, and adjust their maintenance strategies before entering the busiest months of the year.

While annual budgets and maintenance plans are typically established at the beginning of the year, unexpected repairs, weather events, tenant demands, and rising operational costs can quickly shift priorities. A mid-year property checkup helps ensure your property remains aligned with both maintenance objectives and financial goals.

Why a Mid-Year Review Matters

The first six months of the year provide a clear picture of what’s working and where improvements may be needed. By reviewing property conditions and budget performance now, managers can identify potential issues before they become costly emergencies later.

A mid-year assessment allows property teams to:

• Compare actual maintenance expenses against budget projections
• Identify deferred maintenance items
• Evaluate vendor performance and service quality
• Prioritize projects for the remainder of the year
• Plan for seasonal needs such as extreme heat, storm preparation, and year-end improvements
• Reduce the likelihood of unexpected capital expenditures

Simply put, it’s easier and more affordable to make adjustments now than to play catch-up in the fourth quarter or punt them to next year!.

Are You Meeting Your Property Maintenance Goals?

At the start of the year, most properties establish maintenance goals focused on safety, appearance, tenant satisfaction, and asset preservation. Right now is the ideal time to evaluate progress.

Ask yourself:

Has curb appeal improved?

Landscaping, common areas, parking lots, and entryways are often the first things tenants and visitors notice. If appearance standards have slipped, now is the time to refresh and restore key areas.

Have preventive maintenance tasks been completed?

Routine inspections and maintenance help prevent larger issues down the road. Delayed repairs often result in higher costs and operational disruptions.

Are tenant service requests being addressed efficiently?

Maintenance backlogs can impact tenant satisfaction and retention. Reviewing response times and recurring issues can help identify operational improvements.

Have safety concerns been addressed?

Lighting, sidewalks, signage, ADA compliance, irrigation leaks, and property hazards should be reviewed regularly to reduce liability and improve the overall tenant experience.

Budget Check: Are You Spending Smart?

A mid-year budget review isn’t just about controlling costs, it’s about maximizing value.

Many properties find themselves under budget in some categories and over budget in others. Understanding these trends allows managers to strategically reallocate resources where they’re needed most.

Consider reviewing:

• Landscape maintenance expenses
• Janitorial and day porter services
• Building maintenance and repair costs
• Irrigation and water usage
• Pressure washing and exterior cleaning needs
• Emergency repair spending
• Seasonal enhancement projects

If emergency repairs are consuming a significant portion of your maintenance budget, it may indicate that preventive maintenance efforts need to be strengthened. 

Summer Is the Time to Get Ahead

The second half of the year often brings increased property usage, extreme temperatures, seasonal storms, and year-end budget deadlines. Addressing maintenance needs now can help avoid costly surprises later.

Some areas to evaluate include:

• Irrigation systems and water efficiency
• Landscape health and fire mitigation efforts
• Parking lot cleanliness and safety
• Exterior building conditions
• Lighting and signage visibility
• Drainage and storm preparedness
• Trash enclosure and common area cleanliness

By tackling these items proactively, property managers can better protect their budgets while maintaining the appearance and functionality of their properties.

Partnering with the Right Service Team

A successful maintenance program requires more than just responding to problems, it requires planning, consistency, and reliable partners who understand your property’s goals.

At CAM Property Services, we work alongside property managers to help identify maintenance priorities, streamline operations, and develop cost-effective solutions that support both short-term needs and long-term property performance.

Whether it’s landscape maintenance, janitorial services, pressure washing, irrigation repairs, day porter services, handyman work, or on-demand maintenance solutions, our team helps properties stay on track throughout the year.

Schedule Your Mid-Year Property Assessment

The halfway point of the year is the perfect time to evaluate where your property stands and where it needs to go. A proactive review today can help prevent budget overruns, improve property conditions, and set your team up for a successful second half of the year.

Contact CAM Property Services today to schedule a property assessment and ensure your maintenance goals, and your budget remain on track for the remainder of 2026.

As temperatures rise and foot traffic increases, summer is the perfect time for property managers and building owners to refresh their properties and tackle seasonal maintenance needs. A clean, well-maintained property not only improves curb appeal but also enhances tenant satisfaction, protects property value, and helps prevent costly repairs down the road.

At CAM Property Services, we help multifamily and commercial properties stay clean, safe, and summer-ready with comprehensive maintenance and cleaning solutions. Here’s a summer cleaning checklist every property manager should consider.

1. Pressure Wash High-Traffic Areas

Over time, dirt, oil stains, gum, algae, and debris build up on exterior surfaces. Summer is an ideal time to pressure wash:

• Sidewalks
• Parking garages and lots
• Building exteriors
• Pool decks
• Dumpster enclosures
• Entryways and common areas

Professional pressure washing instantly improves the appearance of your property while helping reduce slip hazards and long-term surface damage.

2. Deep Clean Common Areas

Summer often brings increased resident activity, visitors, and tenant traffic. Common areas should receive extra attention during this season.

Focus on:

• Lobbies and reception areas
• Elevators
• Hallways
• Clubhouses and lounges
• Fitness centers
• Shared restrooms

Routine janitorial services combined with periodic deep cleaning help create a healthier and more welcoming environment for residents, employees, and guests.

3. Inspect and Clean Trash Areas

Warmer temperatures can quickly lead to odors, pests, and bacteria buildup around trash enclosures and dumpsters.

Your summer checklist should include:

• Steam cleaning trash areas
• Sanitizing dumpster pads
• Removing debris and bulky items
• Cleaning trash chutes
• Checking for pest activity

Maintaining clean waste areas improves sanitation and helps avoid complaints from tenants and residents.

4. Refresh Landscaping and Irrigation Systems

Curb appeal matters year-round, but especially during summer when landscaping is most visible.

Be sure to:

• Trim overgrown trees and shrubs
• Replace dead plants or flowers
• Check irrigation systems for leaks or overspray
• Remove weeds
• Refresh mulch and ground cover

Drought-conscious landscaping and efficient irrigation can also help reduce water costs while maintaining a polished appearance.

5. Address Graffiti and Property Damage Quickly

Graffiti, stains, damaged signage, and neglected areas can negatively impact the perception of your property.

Summer is a great time to:

• Remove graffiti promptly
• Repaint faded areas
• Repair damaged fencing or railings
• Touch up exterior paint
• Inspect lighting fixtures and signage

Fast response to cosmetic issues helps maintain a professional and well-managed appearance.

6. Clean HVAC Vents and Airflow Areas

Dust and debris buildup can affect indoor air quality and HVAC efficiency during peak cooling months.

Property managers should:

• Replace HVAC filters
• Clean vents and intake areas
• Remove debris around rooftop units
• Schedule preventative HVAC maintenance

Proper airflow and maintenance help improve tenant comfort while reducing strain on cooling systems.

7. Schedule Junk Removal and Bulk Hauling

Summer often brings move-outs, renovations, and increased bulk waste.

Consider scheduling hauling services for:

• Abandoned furniture
• Construction debris
• Green waste
• Storage cleanouts
• Tenant move-out items

Keeping properties clutter-free improves safety, cleanliness, and operational efficiency.

8. Prioritize Parking Lot and Exterior Maintenance

Parking lots and exterior areas take a beating during the hotter months.

Inspect for:

• Oil stains
• Faded striping
• Cracks or potholes
• Broken curbs
• Drainage issues

Routine maintenance helps extend the life of paved surfaces while improving safety and appearance.

Keep Your Property Summer-Ready

A proactive summer cleaning and maintenance plan helps multifamily and commercial properties operate more efficiently while creating a positive experience for residents, tenants, and visitors.

Contact CAM Property Services today to schedule a customized summer property maintenance plan and take advantage of our special BOGO offer through June 30th. Save up to $1,000 when you schedule a qualifying service and receive a second service of equal or lesser value at no additional cost.

Eligible services include:

• Planting
• Irrigation
• Steam Cleaning
• Hauling
• Handyman Services

CAM Property Services provides comprehensive janitorial, pressure washing, landscaping, hauling, steam cleaning, handyman, and property maintenance services tailored to commercial and multifamily communities throughout Southern California.

What the 2026 Fifa World Cup means for LA property owners and managers, and the properties they own.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring unprecedented attention to Los Angeles. With the city hosting eight matches at SoFi Stadium, an estimated 150,000–180,000 visitors are expected to arrive specifically for the tournament, with hundreds of thousands more moving through the region during the event. At the same time, each match will be broadcast to a global audience averaging roughly 175 million viewers, meaning Los Angeles neighborhoods, streets, and commercial corridors will be showcased to hundreds of millions of people around the world. In total, the tournament is projected to generate over a billion dollars in media exposure for the region, along with hundreds of millions in direct tourism spending.

1. Global Exposure: World Cup vs Other Events

The World Cup is the largest broadcast event on earth, meaning Los Angeles properties will be seen indirectly by billions of viewers worldwide.

For property owners and managers, this level of global attention represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. Visitors, investors, and prospective tenants will be experiencing Los Angeles not only through the games themselves, but also through the condition of the communities surrounding them including shopping centers, apartment buildings, office campuses, and neighborhood streets. Properties that are clean, well-maintained, and visually appealing reinforce the city’s reputation and attract the kind of tenants and customers owners want long after the tournament ends. Conversely, deferred maintenance such as overgrown landscaping, worn sidewalks, neglected common areas, can create a very different impression.

2. Los Angeles Impact from the 2026 World Cup

Simple insight: When hundreds of thousands of visitors and millions of online viewers see Los Angeles neighborhoods, every property becomes part of the city’s presentation.

3. Why Property Maintenance Matters (Owner Perspective)

4. The Window to Act Is Now

Strategic investment in property upkeep over the next 12–18 months not only prepares assets for the influx of visitors, but also enhances long-term property value and tenant satisfaction. Now is the time to think proactively about:

• Landscaping and ground maintenance
• Pressure washing and surface cleaning
• Deferred repairs and maintenance catch-up
• Overall curb appeal and common area presentation

When the world’s attention turns to Los Angeles, the properties that stand out will be the ones that chose to prepare.

Let’s Get Your Property World Cup Ready

CAM Property Services helps LA property owners and managers prepare their assets for maximum curb appeal, tenant satisfaction, and long-term value.

The trend to use contract labor for municipality needs is on the rise as local governments rely more on outsourced contract work to provide basic services once fulfilled by city and county workers. This offers clear advantages as private companies adapt more easily to fluctuations in demand and regulatory changes, while providing services by workers with specialized property skills.

During the pandemic slowdown, facilities were able to get by with limited staffing and deferred maintenance. As the general public begins to congregate in greater numbers, city governments, county departments, business improvement districts (BIDs), and even schools are turning to commercial property services companies for assistance with primary property needs.

CAM Property Services, a California-based company, recently secured a contract to provide “janitorial services in three City of Pasadena parking lots.” Contracted services include daily cleaning of parking lots including use of a sweeper truck, picking up trash, emptying public trash cans, and pulling weeds in tree wells. While this is not their first municipal contract, it represents a shift toward more basic services than previous contracts covered.

As cities face difficulties in meeting their standard labor needs, they are outsourcing tasks that have traditionally been handled internally. They are finding mid-sized companies that provide a variety of services are in the best position to meet these needs.

Service companies also tend to provide staff with a higher degree of skill and expertise in a particular service. They often come with specialized equipment and experience across multiple asset classes, therefore can provide a higher level of professional service than a general laborer might.

Janitorial, day porter, facility repair, parking lot maintenance, sweeping, landscaping, and power washing are some of the services now being outsourced on a regular basis as municipalities turn to property service providers to fill the void left by unfilled job vacancies.

On the other side of this equation, property service providers can also face labor shortages and tend to lean toward servicing entities with which they have a prior relationship or wish to establish a new, long-term business arrangement.

Picking up government contract work is no easy task for companies either. The process requires strict adherence to bidding guidelines. Financial transparency, substantive liability coverage, human resources adaptability, and proven operational proficiency are a few of the hurdles required just to qualify and submit a bid for government contracts. Besides the significant amount of work that goes into bidding these jobs, the minimum performance qualifications present a high bar that many service companies are unable to meet, thereby excluding those companies from submitting a bid.

If you are a government entity, you may wish to establish a relationship with a property service company before the need becomes dire. Working out the nuances of bid contract work and building rapport is better achieved under normal circumstances.

As every sector readjusts to post-pandemic conditions, many of these variances may become the norm. Municipalities will adjust their labor needs and processes, the benefits of outsourced property services will be realized, and the labor force will take on a different form. A shift in the way you contract business today will help keep your “supply chain” of property services steady to meet future needs.

Palm Springs is more than just the host city for the return of this year’s ICSC@Western conference to the desert — it’s a vibrant oasis filled with thrilling adventures, cultural treasures, and breathtaking natural beauty.

As a proud Platinum Sponsor of ICSC@Western, CAM Property Services is delighted to welcome all attendees and help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re looking to take a break from networking or extend your stay for a few extra days, Palm Springs offers a wealth of experiences to explore. Here’s a curated list of must-see activities and attractions to elevate your visit:

1. Swing into Action at the ICSC Foundation Golf Tournament – Presented by CAM Property Services

Golf enthusiasts, this one’s for you! As the Presenting Sponsor of the ICSC Foundation Golf Tournament , we invite you to tee off at one of Palm Springs’ premier golf courses. This isn’t just a chance to play golf; it’s an incredible opportunity to network with fellow ICSC attendees against the backdrop of stunning desert scenery. Connect, collaborate, and enjoy a sunny day as you navigate the beautifully manicured greens and fairways.

2. Make a Splash at the PS Surf Club

Need a refreshing break from the conference? Head to the PS Surf Club, a newly renovated oasis that promises a day full of water adventures. Whether you’re catching waves in the surf pool, floating lazily along the river, or enjoying the thrill of water slides, there’s something for everyone. When hunger strikes, satisfy your cravings at the on-site Amala Restaurant, which offers a delicious range of dining options.

3. Dive into History at the Palm Springs Air Museum

For history buffs and aviation enthusiasts, the Palm Springs Air Museum is an unmissable destination. Home to one of the world’s largest collections of flyable WWII aircraft, this museum is more than just a static display. Passionate volunteers bring the stories of these planes to life with engaging narratives that transport you back in time. It’s a unique blend of education and inspiration that you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Explore Art and Culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum

Palm Springs has a thriving arts scene, and the Palm Springs Art Museum is at its heart. From contemporary art and photography to Native American artifacts, the museum’s diverse exhibits offer a world of inspiration and a quiet place for reflection. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or just curious, this cultural gem is sure to leave a lasting impression.

5. Experience Native American Art and History at the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza

For a deep dive into Native American culture and history, visit the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza. The Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, located within the Plaza, features the 2,200-square-foot Changing Gallery, currently showcasing “For a Love of His People: The Photography of Horace Poolaw.” This exhibition, running from November 2023 through December 2024, presents the powerful work of Horace Poolaw (Kiowa, 1906-1984), who documented Native American life in the Southern Plains with a rare insider’s perspective. His photographs capture everyday moments with depth and authenticity, offering a window into a world that many outsiders rarely see. 

6. Immerse Yourself in Relaxation at the Spa at Sec-he

After a busy day of conference activities, nothing beats a rejuvenating experience at the Spa at Sec-he. Located within the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza, this luxurious spa is known for its healing waters, cherished by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians for generations. Unwind in natural hot spring waters celebrated for their restorative properties, or indulge in a variety of spa treatments that blend traditional healing techniques with modern wellness practices. It’s the perfect escape to relax, recharge, and restore your energy.

7. Taco Tuesday, Anyone?

When in Palm Springs, do as the locals do! If your conference schedule aligns with a Tuesday, don’t miss out on Taco Tuesday at some of the city’s best Mexican restaurants. Check out El Patron or Tac/Quilas for a laid-back experience with vibrant atmospheres and some of the most delicious tacos in town. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of networking, enjoy great food, and soak up the local culture.

Make the Most of Your Time in Palm Springs!

Whether you’re in Palm Springs for business, pleasure, or a mix of both, the city offers an incredible array of experiences for every taste. We hope this guide helps you maximize your time during ICSC@Western and enjoy all the unique adventures this beautiful desert destination has to offer.

We look forward to seeing you at the conference and on the greens at ICSC Foundation Golf Tournament!

Have you ever thought about what happens when the doors of a trash chute are opened?  It’s definitely something you should be thinking about and be aware of. Recent studies have discovered the inner surface of a chute can carry more than 30 different biological and bacterial growths. If a trash chute doesn’t receive proper and timely cleaning care, all of these germs and bacteria become airborne every time the chute doors are opened. These bacteria carry all kinds of illnesses and infections throughout the building, potentially affecting occupants.

Harmful Pathogens

Trash chutes are breeding grounds for some harmful fungal pathogens; for example: E. Coli, Salmonella, Legionella, Stahylococci Aureus and Pseudomonas. According to Environmental Research & Restoration, the lack of trash chute cleaning is potentially responsible for the increase in frequency of doctor’s office visits. Many pathogenic molds have the ability to inhabit the respiratory tract and become life-threatening. Items found in trash chutes contain organic waste ingredients, a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and disease-causing organisms to thrive and spread throughout the building.

Fire Hazards

Property owners and managers face building violations, odor, and fire hazard risks on a daily basis. The potential possibility for fire risks is the most dangerous. Dirty or substandard trash chutes can cause all of these conditions, although they are entirely avoidable and affordable within a community’s budget. Grease, sludge, and grime build-up, faulty trash chute doors, and clogged air vents are all genuine threats.  When gooey residue builds up, it prevents the chute doors from closing and can even ignite. If, during a fire, the trash chute doors do not close properly, a wind tunnel effect is created, funneling the fire up and down the building. The risk of fire is reduced when a chute is functioning properly and the chute doors are safety-approved. Your building is in violation of fire and safety codes if your chute doors don’t close or latch automatically. In order to keep a chute functioning properly, grease and sludge and grime build-up must be removed on a regular basis; otherwise you risk damaging the components of the chute which occur from build-up, therefore preventing the doors from closing. Furthermore, the collection of goo on the inside of the chute has been proven to be flammable even at temperatures as low as 180 degrees. It’s very important to eliminate risks of a flash explosion by keeping the chute clean and properly maintained. Chute doors that don’t close automatically can create a wind tunnel and increase the severity of a fire.

Cleaning Schedule

Trash chutes should be cleaned a minimum of twice a year, preferably in the summer and winter.  It is also recommended that you clean your trash chutes before and after major holidays; tenants welcome a cleaning in anticipation of holiday entertaining and an increase of visitors. A top notch cleaning process should also include maintenance and repair services.

A properly cleaned trash chute should include the following steps listed below:

Cleaning Process

■ Pre-treat interior chute walls and doors with biodegradable enzyme solution to de-grease, disinfect and deodorize

■ Pressure wash interior chute walls and doors at up to 3,000 psi to strip away grime

■ Steam clean trash room floor and walls

■ Service options: Trash room odor control blocks and water reclamation (important for water conservation during this severe drought or when you have a lack of drainage)

A properly cleaned trash chute leads to more than just a safe and cleaner living environment, it also eliminates breeding a breeding ground for vermin, neutralizes odors, and reduces the possibility of resident complaints.

Listed below are several basic maintenance and repair services associated with a properly maintained trash chute.

Maintenance and Repair Services Offered by CAM Services

■ Inspection of intake and discharge door each cleaning visit

■ Repair and replacement of worn hardware performed by trained technicians

■ Refurbish your existing trash chutes and doors to bring them up to code

The seemingly small task of cleaning and maintain a trash chute is more important than some would think and can be good for your business.  Putting forth the effort to keep your tenants healthy and happy increases the likelihood that they will stay in your building longer and reduces your liability.