1 MINUTES OF THE
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE ADELANTO CITY COUNCIL,
ADELANTO PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY,
ADELANTO PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY,
THE ADELANTO COMMUNITY BENEFIT CORPORATION,
AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD
January 28, 2026
A. CALL TO ORDER - REGULAR MEETING
The Adelanto City Council held the Regular Meeting on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, via teleconference 1-415-655-0001 - conference code 146 275 0870 of the Governmental Center located at 11600 Air Expressway, Adelanto, California.
Mayor Reyes called to order the regular session meeting at 11:01 a.m.
Deputy City Clerk conducted roll call.
Present:
• Council Member Stevevonna Evans
• Council Member Angelo Meza
• Council Member Amanda Uptergrove
• Mayor Pro Tem Daniel Ramos
• Mayor Gabriel Reyes
Invocation: Mayor Reyes
Flag Salute: Mayor Pro Tem Ramos
B. DELETIONS / ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
None.
C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded by Council Member Meza to approve the agenda.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
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2 D. CITY MANAGERS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS
City Manager Jessie Flores- The City Manager reported on key initiatives, including issuing an RFP for no-cost home water filtration systems, announcing a free spay and neuter clinic, and promoting an upcoming Citywide Safety-Action Plan workshop. Updates also included receipt of CDBG reimbursement funds and continued progress on audits and fiscal accountability efforts.
E. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS
Council Member Evans- I attended the Regional Steering Committee meeting, where an upcoming election for chair and co-chair positions will take place, and noted being nominated for co-chair. She also participated in a special meeting to establish goals for the next two years, which will be shared via survey for input before final adoption. Additionally, she attended the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District meeting and will continue serving on its budget and executive committees.
Council Member Uptergrove- I have no major updates but noted that he and the Mayor Pro Tem will be hosting the California League of Cities in Adelanto on Friday and will provide updates afterward.
Council Member Meza- Councilmember Meza provided several updates, highlighting the importance of regional and state engagement in securing resources for Adelanto, including the upcoming water filtration program. He shared that he is recovering from a recent car accident and thanked the community for their support. He also discussed a potential partnership with Safe Soil to repurpose clean dirt at no cost to improve local dirt roads, particularly in areas impacted by recent rains. I have serious concerns about recent youth violence in the High Desert, including the loss of local youth, and emphasized the need for community involvement, mentorship, and programs to support at-risk youth. He shared efforts to engage local students, connect them with educational opportunities such as Victor Valley College, and promote workforce pathways like trade programs. He encouraged residents to be proactive in supporting youth within their own circles and announced an upcoming service for a local youth, Jeremy Rosales.
Mayor Pro Tem- Mayor Pro Tem provided updates on recent meetings and regional engagement, including participation in SCAG workshops, discussions on bringing VA medical services to the High Desert, and attendance at community events such as the MLK tribute. He highlighted the importance of representing Adelanto at state and regional levels, noting key outcomes from a Sacramento trip, including progress on a sales tax measure that could increase City revenue, securing a support letter for the Highway 395 access amendment, and receiving commitment from the Assemblyman for funding to advance the City’s water infrastructure and filtration efforts.
Additional updates included participation in SBCTA and SCAG meetings, discussions with the State Treasurer on funding opportunities, and a visit to Lancaster’s stadium for redevelopment ideas. He also announced upcoming community engagement opportunities, including the “Safe Streets for All” workshop, encouraged residents to report graffiti through the city app, and shared 21 City Council Minutes
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January 28, 2026
3 his appointment to a regional Emergency Resilience Center committee focused on strengthening infrastructure and disaster preparedness. The Mayor Pro Tem concluded by thanking staff and partners and emphasizing continued efforts to bring resources and improvements to Adelanto.
Mayor Reyes - The Mayor shared that although they could not attend the VVTA ribbon cutting due to a City Council meeting, they highlighted a major milestone: the unveiling of new hydrogen fuel cell buses and a fueling station in Hesperia, marking a significant step forward for regional transit. They congratulated Mayor Liz Becerra (VVTA Chair) and Councilwoman Allison Lee (Co-Chair), and thanked James Noble for his service. Several upcoming free transit ride days were announced (e.g., Transit Equity Day, Earth Day, Dump the Pump Day, Car-Free Day, California Clean Air Day). The speaker acknowledged efforts in Sacramento advocacy, thanking the Mayor Pro Tem for engaging with state legislators. A major concern discussed was Caltrans restrictions from a 1985 agreement, which continue to limit economic development along Highway 395 in Adelanto—unlike neighboring cities. Efforts are ongoing to remove these barriers, which could significantly boost growth and revenue. The recent tax revenue increase (including online sales like Amazon) is expected to benefit the city and help address infrastructure needs. The speaker also expressed concern about rising gun violence, mentioning recent local tragedies and thanking law enforcement for their work. Additional updates will be shared at a future City Council meeting.
F. PRESENTATIONS
Council Member Uptergrove presented a certificate of Recognition to Walmart Store #4392.
G. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Reyes opened public comment at 11:48 a.m.
Daniel Ramos- Good morning, Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and everyone in attendance.
My name is Daniel Ramos, and I am a resident of the city.
I’d like to take a moment to thank the Council and the residents for continuing to support opportunities for our elected officials to attend meetings and conferences in places like Sacramento, Washington, D.C., Salt Lake City, and League of California Cities policy committee meetings. As we heard at the last meeting, some residents questioned what was being brought back and what work was being done.
As a resident, I want to express my appreciation. The proof is in the results. It is important for me to see our Mayor and Council actively involved and engaged in conversations that matter, conversations that may not show immediate results but will benefit our city in the years to come. 22 City Council Minutes
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4 We are not just working for today; we are working toward building a better Adelanto for the future—beyond our time here. I don’t expect to wake up tomorrow and see immediate large-scale development like new shopping centers, entertainment venues, or expanded community facilities.
I understand that progress takes time.
Mayor Reyes closed public comment at 11:51 a.m.
H. CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION APPROVING THE CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED
1. Waiver of Full Reading of Ordinances. Proposed action to waive full reading (except title) of all ordinances appearing on this City Council agenda as authorized by Government Code Section 36934, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
2. Receive and File the Commercial and Residential Recycling Department Report.
3. Receive and File the Commercial and Residential Recycling Department 4th Quarter Report.
4. Receive and File Cannabis Compliance Report.
5. Approval of Resolution 26-02 authorizing the City Manager to apply for the Pro-housing Incentive Program Funds.
RESOLUTION NO. 26-02
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO
AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR, AND RECEIPT OF, PROHOUSING INCENTIVE PROGRAM FUNDS.
6. Receive and File the City’s Single Audit Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2023.
7. Acceptance of Parcel Map 20498 – Subdivide 21.86 acres into 19 lots northeast corner of Aster Road and Violet.
8. Approval of Warrant Demand Schedule 25/26-07-02
a. City of Adelanto Check Warrant No. 151629 through 151644 in total amount of $47,019.70.
b. City of Adelanto EFT No. 4225 through 4229 and 4815 through 4889 in total amount of $2,757,235.33.
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5 Mayor Reyes pulled item #5 for questions. The City Manager answered the question and the Council voted.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to approve the consent as presented.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
I. ADELANTO PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Waiver of Full Reading of Ordinances. Proposed action to waive full reading (except title) of all ordinances appearing on this APUA agenda as authorized by Government Code Section 36934, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
2. Approval of Sewer Department Report.
3. Approval of Water Department Report.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to approve the APUA consent as presented.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes, and Council Member Evans voted no on item # 2).
J. PUBLIC HEARING
1. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE CITY’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-26. (VIRGINIA) RESOLUTION NO. 26-01
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE CITY’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council: (1) open the public hearing and take public testimony; and (2) adopt Resolution No. 26-01 authorizing the City’s CDBG Program for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
24 City Council Minutes
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January 28, 2026
6 Deputy City Clerk Velis presented the report.
The City Council and staff discussed the item, and all questions were addressed.
The Non-profit organizations that applied for funding spoke with the Council. • High Desert Community Outreach
• New Leaf Ministries
• I Am LOVE
• Molding Hearts
• Adelanto Community Resource Center
Mayor Reyes opened Public Comment at 1:23 p.m.
Adrianna Garcia- New Leaf Ministries spoke about the organization’s services, including food distribution from multiple sources, job assistance—especially for youth—and a clothing ministry that also provides essentials, prom attire, and household items. She highlighted their support for foster youth, partnerships with other nonprofits, and expressed gratitude to volunteers and donors from both local and distant communities.
Diana Esmeralda- I praise local nonprofits, particularly New Leaf Ministries, for their impactful work. She encouraged organizations to seek additional funding opportunities through CalGrants and offered her assistance with grant writing and planning. She also shared her vision of creating a nonprofit-run municipal grocery store for Adelanto residents and expressed appreciation for nonprofits supporting the community, especially after the senior center closure.
Mayor Reyes closed Public Comment at 1:29 p.m.
The City Council provided direction to staff to allocate the funding as follows:
• New Leaf Ministries: $11,236.00
• Molding Hearts: $11,236.00
• Adelanto Community Resource Center: $3,746.00
• Bellflower Park Project: $148,570.00
For a total allocation of $174,788.00 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for Fiscal Year 2026–2027.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to reject the bid for the Seneca Road Rehabilitation Project.
Motion carried 4-1 (Evans, Meza, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes and Council Member Uptergrove abstaining).
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January 28, 2026
7 K. NEW BUSINESS
1. REJECTION OF ALL BIDS FOR THE SENECA ROAD REHABILITATION PROJECT (GARY) RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council reject all bids received for the Seneca Road Rehabilitation Project pursuant to the City’s bid documents and the California Public Contract Code, direct staff to revise the plans and specifications and re-bid the project.
Building Official Haung presented the report.
The City Council and staff discussed the item, and all questions were addressed.
Mayor Reyes opened Public Comment at 1:47 p.m. and closed Public Comment at 1:47 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to reject the bid for the Seneca Road Rehabilitation Project.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
L. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
None.
M. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Council Member Evans requested the Vacant Lot item be at the next regular Council meeting.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Evans, seconded by Council Member Meza.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Council Member Evans requested a presentation by the Inland Equity Community Land Trust.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Evans, seconded by Mayor Reyes.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
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Regular Meeting
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8 Council Member Meza requested a report on the Mobile App showing how many request the city is receiving and how many of those requests have been completed.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza, seconded by Mayor Reyes.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Council Member Meza requested that staff identify dirt roads throughout the City that require additional soil to restore them to proper condition following the recent rains.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza, seconded by Mayor Reyes.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Council Member Meza requested the City Manager to investigate what the timeline is for applying for State Emergency funding to do repairs to city buildings damaged by the rain, and for the community.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza, seconded by Mayor Reyes.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos requested that staff do research and for presentation on the Blue Zones Project.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ramos, seconded by Mayor Reyes.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Mayor Reyes requested that the exterior of the Senior Center and the Community Center be painted and a ramp for the Community Center.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ramos.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
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9 Mayor Reyes requested to investigate the cost of painting the brick walls in the city that have been covered up due to graffiti. He would like the wall to be one color.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes, seconded by Council Member Meza.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
N. ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting of the City Council will be held on February 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
Mayor Reyes adjourned the regular city council meeting at 1:59 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes, seconded by Council Member Meza to adjourn the meeting.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
_________________________
Gabriel Reyes, Mayor
_________________________
Brenda Lopez, City Clerk
28 1
MINUTES OF THE
WORKSHOP MEETING
OF THE ADELANTO CITY COUNCIL,
ADELANTO PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY,
ADELANTO PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY,
THE ADELANTO COMMUNITY BENEFIT CORPORATION,
AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD
February 2, 2026
A. CALL TO ORDER – WORKSHOP MEETING
The Adelanto City Council held the Workshop Meeting on Wednesday, February 2, 2026, via teleconference 1-415-655-0001 - conference code 146 275 0870 of the Governmental Center located at 11600 Air Expressway, Adelanto, California.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos called to order the workshop meeting at 6:00 p.m.
Deputy City Clerk conducted roll call.
Present:
• Council Member Stevevonna Evans
• Council Member Angelo Meza
• Council Member Amanda Uptergrove (Absent)
• Mayor Pro Tem Daniel Ramos
• Mayor Gabriel Reyes (he arrived at 7:00 p.m.)
Invocation: Council Member Meza
Flag Salute: Mayor Pro Tem Ramos
B. DELETIONS / ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
None.
C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza seconded by Council Member Evans to approve the agenda.
Motion carried 3-2 (Evans, Meza, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos voted yes, and Mayor Reyes and Council Member Uptergrove were absent).
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2 D. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos opened public comment at 6:02 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos closed public comment at 6:02 p.m.
E. WORKSHOP PRESENTAION
1. SAFE STREETS FOR ALL COMMUNITY WORKSHOP ALTA PLANNING + DESIGN, INC.
Katlin Scott presented the Safety Action Plan.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos opening remarks, he thanked the Mayor, City Council, staff, residents, and stakeholders for their leadership, participation, and commitment to improving Adelanto. He emphasized that community input is essential in shaping policies, priorities, and investments. He recognized Alta Planning and Design for their expertise in supporting the City’s safety study. He explained that the workshop is part of the Citywide Safety Action Plan, funded by a $240,000 federal grant, focused on improving traffic safety for all users. The study aims to identify street improvements and safety needs for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and others. He highlighted that safer streets would lead to fewer accidents, better mobility, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life. The results will help guide future infrastructure investments and secure additional funding opportunities.
Community comments:
Tina Capilos- I previously raised concerns about road conditions near Adelanto High School and followed up with the superintendent’s office. I was told that improving/paving the road near the high school will require coordination between the City of Adelanto and San Bernardino County, and responsibility largely falls on those agencies. The issue is outside the City’s General Plan, so progress depends on working with the County. I urge the city officials to engage directly with San Bernardino County to address safety concerns. Also paving Adelanto Road, repairing sidewalks on Bartlett and Pearmain, fixing another dangerous road near Don Bradach Elementary School. I hope grant funding can help accelerate these improvements.
Due to health issues, I have been unable to attend County meetings but plan to continue advocating.
Jennifer Garcia- I speak on behalf of the community about safety concerns around Adelanto High School. She emphasized the need for sidewalks, better traffic control (stop signs, flashing lights, speed-activated signals), and improved street lighting. She highlighted the importance of bike safety, including clearly marked bike lanes and maintained crosswalks. Key problems include Aster Road and Mojave Road, especially during school dismissal, where students cross without guidance or safety personnel. Mojave Road is considered a high-risk 30 City Council Minutes
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February 2, 2026
3 roadway, yet students and parents rely on it daily. She noted concerns about insufficient access (only one way in/out), which poses risks during emergencies. She stressed that many students are new drivers, making proper road markings and safety measures even more critical. Overall, she urged the city to listen to the community and take action to improve infrastructure and ensure student safety.
City Council Closing Remarks:
Mayor Reyes praised the presentation and ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety measures, including stop signs and related projects. He commended staff for securing funding, noting it will significantly benefit the community. He explained that completed studies (traffic, feasibility, etc.) strengthen the City’s ability to compete for funding by making projects more “shovel ready.” These preparations help the city secure resources when advocating in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. He encouraged greater community participation and engagement, noting increased involvement and urging continued growth. He encouraged residents to promote participation, especially by having others complete the City’s survey if they cannot attend meetings. He emphasized that the survey is important for gathering community input and supporting City efforts. He noted the need to provide accessible ways for residents to engage, such as through the city website. He thanked everyone for attending and participating.
Council Member Meza thank you staff and community members for attending and showing unity and commitment to improving the city. He encouraged residents to actively advocate for change, including sharing emails and spreading awareness among other parents in the area. He suggested building a community-driven movement, especially among parents near the school who share similar concerns. He emphasized that many people have concerns but may not know how to voice them, and community leadership can help drive action forward.
The City Council and Alta Planning discussed, and all questions were answered.
F. ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting of the City Council will be held on February 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
Mayor Reyes adjourned the workshop meeting at 7:18 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ramos, seconded by Council Member Meza to adjourn the meeting.
Motion carried 4-1 (Evans, Meza, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes and Council Member Uptergrove was absent).
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4 _________________________
Gabriel Reyes, Mayor
_________________________
Brenda Lopez, City Clerk
32