Laura Akey

The Transportation Planning Policy Committee reviewed several agenda items, including the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program Cycle 8 and the Active Transportation Program Cycle 8, both of which provide significant funding opportunities for transportation projects. Discussion was held regarding the Federal Transportation Improvement Program draft amendment and various regional highway and transit project updates, including sidewalk and guardrail repairs, pedestrian beacon installations, and roundabout project timelines. Updates were also provided on Caltrans staffing, regional corridor planning, and state-level transportation project approvals.

The Commission discussed the status of an annexation and a dissolution project, including the need for additional CEQA documentation for the annexation proposal. Key agenda items featured a review of the 2026-2027 preliminary budget, which is funded by fees and assessments from the county, incorporated cities, and special districts. The budget discussion covered staffing flexibility, office lease agreements, the utilization of AI tools for municipal service reviews, and potential memberships in professional associations. Additionally, the commission addressed administrative and staffing matters, including the transition of staff roles and the management of CalPERS unfunded liability.

The council discussed the Keen Pavement project, specifically the 58 truck climbing lane and pavement rehabilitation. Key discussion points included project accomplishments such as bridge rail upgrades and wildlife crossings, the status of the Ready to List process, funding contingencies, and the construction phasing plan involving three segments. The council also reviewed the public information campaign strategy, which includes the use of animations to communicate traffic shifts and construction expectations to the public.

The Board of Supervisors meeting included a proclamation designating National Surveyors Week in Kern County, highlighting the vital role of land surveyors in community development and property rights. The board also addressed actions from a closed session, managed the consent agenda including approval of funding for maintenance projects at the Lake Isabella Senior Center and the Ransburg community center, and convened as the Kern County Sanitation Authority to deliberate on sanitation matters.

The board conducted a regular meeting featuring various presentations and recognitions. Key topics included a flag salute and moment of silence, the introduction of a pet for adoption from the county shelter, and consent agenda approvals. The meeting included presentations regarding the new Hard Rock Casino, the recognition of the Sheriff and Fire Chief, and a proclamation welcoming a delegation of Supreme Court justices from Mongolia. The board also passed resolutions to honor three individuals, including Todd Irvine, upon their retirement from county service.