Todd S. Bodem

The public meeting was held to discuss the acquisition of AV Ranchos Water Co. Key discussion points included resident concerns over continual water rate increases approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and the potential future sale of the company to a foreign concern. The Town Attorney provided an update on the company's ownership history, noting its current ownership by the Carlile Group (a global asset management firm) and recent acquisition history, including the acquisition by Cal Carlisle group in Washington D.C. and the pending acquisition by Al Gonin Water Company. The discussion highlighted comparative water rates, noting that private company rates are often two to four times higher than municipally owned systems. Updates were provided on current CPUC proceedings, specifically the General Rate Case for 2015-2017, which requested a significant rate increase, and the proposed acquisition of the Yermo Water Company. Additionally, the operational and financial reviews of a potential town acquisition, including condemnation proceedings and environmental assessments, were outlined.

The Town of Apple Valley's 2016 State of the Town address reviews progress on its 'Vision 2020' strategic plan, which is guided by priorities including public safety, robust transportation, adequate infrastructure, environmental stewardship, economic development through local business support, diverse recreation opportunities, and strong community partnerships. The address highlights efforts to foster a welcoming town with healthy lifestyles and announces the initiation of a new strategic planning process for 'Vision 2040'.

The meeting focused on economic development and conclusion by the Mayor. Key discussion points included the imminent finalization of the Big Lots distribution center project, a 1.3 million square foot facility expected to bring over 500 jobs, which was delayed by environmental review but is expected to proceed following resolution of that challenge. An update was provided on the Hilltop property, which is being developed into part of Apple Valley's Park System, including the formation of an ad hoc committee for the master plan and community use trail opening. The Mayor also recognized staff and announced recruitment for a new Town Manager, with a citizen satisfaction survey planned to guide future priorities. A significant portion of the conclusion involved recognizing Mayor Nassif for receiving the WE TIP Mayor of the Year award, highlighting his dedication to public safety and the success of the community's involvement in crime reporting.

The agenda was modified to move up the presentation by Dr. Christopher Thornburg, an independent economic analyst from Beacon Economics and UC Riverside, concerning the economic analysis of water acquisition efforts. The presentation was prioritized for public information before the general crowd departed. Dr. Thornburg provided an independent review of the town's financing plan regarding the potential purchase of a local water utility (Liberty Utilities Apple Valley), contrasting the town's analysis with critiques provided by Dr. Houston and Liberty Utilities. He concluded that the town's analysis was sound, noting key cost advantages of public ownership, such as tax exemption and lower cost of capital, and dismissed opposing arguments regarding asset valuation and interest rate projections as mathematically and economically inconsistent.

The 2019 State of the Town Address for the Town of Apple Valley provides an update on past achievements and outlines future strategic directions. The address emphasizes continued economic development through new business growth and land annexation, significant investments in infrastructure improvements including roads and public facilities, and enhanced public safety through proactive enforcement. It also focuses on enriching community well-being through recreational events, expanded resident services, and transparent governance, while proactively addressing critical issues such as water acquisition and homelessness. The overarching goal is to maintain and improve Apple Valley as a premier high desert destination for families, businesses, and visitors.