Austin Bishop

The City of Palmdale's 2021-2029 Housing Element outlines a strategy to fulfill State Housing Element law requirements, aiming to provide a decent home and suitable living environment for all residents. The plan focuses on promoting diverse residential development for all income groups, preserving and improving existing affordable housing, mitigating governmental constraints, ensuring equal housing opportunities regardless of special characteristics, and facilitating adequate housing for households with special needs.

The meeting provided background on Palmdale parks, open space, conservation, and natural resources and their relationship to the General Plan. It included an update on the General Plan, community engagement, and feedback on land use alternatives. GPAC members discussed factors determining the condition of parks, the impact of Joshua Trees being designated as an endangered species, and scenic highways. The meeting also covered protected wildlife species, ecological areas, vegetation, natural resource communities, water, mineral, and agriculture resources in Palmdale, as well as existing ordinances in place to protect those natural resources. There was a discussion regarding community parks, park accessibility, enclosed pools, mini parks, and the use of reclaimed water, as well as the balance between new development and conservation.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The Board discussed patron overdue fines and administrative fees, and they considered resolutions related to these topics. Additionally, there was discussion and approval regarding policy #311, which pertains to the Local History Room Collection Development and Retention. The board also addressed and approved the revised policy #310 concerning Collection Development. The Assistant Library Director provided a report, updating the Board on the library's reopening for walk-in service, virtual storytime sessions, Grab-n-Go events, the upcoming Summer Reading Program, and potential collaboration with the Palmdale School District for the Summer Lunch Program. Updates on Library Director Shupe's recovery were also shared.

The board is considering the adoption of the revised 2021 annual budget. The revised budget removes contributions from both agencies and suspends professional work related to Phase II of the Recycled Water Facility Master Plan. The fiscal year is projected to result in $1,773,448 in unappropriated reserves.

The board reviewed the Treasurer's Report for March 2021, which included a financial overview with cash and investments totaling $2,770,981.95. The report detailed interest and market adjustments, receivables, and expenses paid during the month. Key financial documents such as the Balance Sheet and Income Statement for the period ending March 31, 2021, were submitted for ratification.