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
February 11, 2026
A. CALL TO ORDER - REGULAR MEETING
The Adelanto City Council held the Regular Closed Session Meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 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 11:00 a.m.
City Clerk conducted roll call.
Present:
• Councilmember Evans – Present
• Councilmember Meza – Present
• Councilmember Updegrove – Present
• Mayor Pro Tem Ramos – Present (remote from Sacramento – just cause) • Mayor Reyes – Present
Invocation: Council Member Meza
Flag Salute: Mayor Reyes
B. DELETIONS / ADDITIONS TO AGENDA
None
C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded by Council Member Meza to approve the agenda as presented.
Motion carried 5-0 roll call vote (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voting yes).
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2 D. CITY MANAGERS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS
The City Manager delivered a detailed update on municipal operations and capital improvement efforts, highlighting ongoing oversight of water and wastewater services by Woodard & Curran, with a formal presentation planned for the second March Council meeting, and continued progress on outstanding audits aimed at strengthening the city’s credit rating and expanding eligibility for grants and infrastructure funding. The city has applied for a $50,000 GM “Main Street” grant to fund drainage and safety upgrades at Astor Road and Chamberlain Way, including a drainage basin, underground piping, restriping, and solar LED stop signs.
Infrastructure projects are advancing, with the Seneca Road rehabilitation rebid and expected to be completed by the end of summer, alongside paving work on Auburn Road and Air Expressway. Public Works has completed improvements at Richardson Park and exterior painting at the Senior and Community Centers, with additional park enhancements planned, including new or replaced awnings, repainting of trash receptacles and BBQ grills, playground restoration, and replacing wood chips with rubber matting.
E. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS
Councilmember Evans reported that the Safe Streets for All initiative is moving from the planning phase into implementation and announced his election as Co-Chair of the Regional Steering Committee. He also shared that a Community Garden ribbon cutting is scheduled for April 22 in celebration of Earth Day, featuring 40 garden plots including four ADA-accessible spaces, and noted that the recycling cost issue with the I Am Love nonprofit has been successfully resolved.
Council Member Meza shared a weather advisory regarding possible snow and high winds, reported strong registration numbers for Adelanto Little League, and discussed recent Joshua Tree legislation and its potential development impacts. An update was provided on Victor Valley College’s welding program, along with news that Clark Pacific is hiring 30–40 employees after receiving more than 300 applications. The councilmember also announced the donation of new dugouts for Richardson Park and highlighted the City’s monthly business spotlight, recognizing Only Sinaloa as January’s featured business.
Councilmember Uptergrove reported on hosting the California League of Cities Desert Mountain Division meeting and attending a Behavioral Health Commission meeting that included updates on juvenile justice and related policies. He announced a new mobile shower partnership with Journey Foursquare and the Simba Center, promoted the upcoming February 19 job fair, and highlighted New Leaf Ministries’ ongoing food distribution and clothing drives. He also shared plans for the launch of two mobile medical units, with one dedicated specifically to serving Adelanto residents.
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3 Mayor Pro Tem Ramos reported attending the Cal Cities Division meeting and provided an update from the SBCTA meeting, including the Executive Director’s review. He also participated in SCAG meetings focused on Olympic transportation readiness, attended the Victorville Library grand opening, and met in Sacramento regarding the Highway 395 access agreement, with followup discussions scheduled. Additionally, he announced an upcoming Adelanto High School playoff game.
Mayor Reyes reported collaborating with Assemblymember Carrillo on Joshua Tree pilot legislation and provided an update from the SCAG Transportation Committee regarding Metrolink ridership and Olympic planning efforts. He attended Barstow High School’s state championship celebration, met with a park development contractor to discuss a grant-funded park expansion project, recognized Captain Ryan Smith for his service, and announced the launch of a local business spotlight initiative.
F. PRESENTATIONS
Annual Christmas Parade winners recognized in multiple categories including marching bands, drill teams, nonprofits, car clubs, Best Entry, and Mayor’s Choice Award.
G. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Reyes opened public comment at 11:51 a.m.
Diana Esmeralda, speaking by phone, suggested that the City revisit its park ordinance to allow pocket parks within smaller developments, addressed prior comments concerning her community involvement, and shared personal creative work inspired by the City of Adelanto.
Mayor Reyes closed public comment at 11: 55 a.m.
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February 11, 2026
4 H. CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to approve the consent as presented, with Council Member Evans voting no on item # 4.
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. Approval of meeting minutes: December 10, 2026 – Regular Meeting
3. Approval of fifth amendment to the Independent Contractor Services Agreement contract with David Evans and Associates, Inc. (DEA) in the amount of $120,000.
4. Receive and file the City’s annual audit reports and financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.
8. Approval of Warrant Demand Schedule 25/26-08-001
a. City of Adelanto Check Warrant No. 151645 through 151669 in total amount of $44,108.30
b. City of Adelanto EFT No. 4230 through 4240 and 4890 through 4947 in total amount of $2,704,432.95.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes and Council Member Evans voting no on item # 4)
I. APUA CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes, seconded by Council Member Meza to approve 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 APUA agenda as authorized by Government Code Section 36934, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
2. Approval of amendment two to the Intergovernmental Consulting Services Agreement contract with Political Dynamics in the amount not to exceed One Hundred Eight Thousand Dollars ($108,000).
3. Approval Amendment No. seven to the Professional Consultant Services Agreement with IDEATE 27 City Council Minutes
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5 California to extend Section 3.1.2 Term on the attached Agreement for two (2) years with compensation not-to-exceed Two Hundred Fifty-two Thousand Dollars ($252,000).
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
J. NEW BUSINESS
1. CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS COMMITTEES. ( BRENDA) RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council make various appointments amongst themselves to the various committees.
The City Council discussed and made changes to the committee appointments on the Mohave Air Quality Management District Board. Regional Steering Committee, Continuum of care, League of California Cities Desert Mountain Division Board, and SCAG General Assembly. (see attached list)
2. DISCUSSION – VACANT LAND PENALTY. (TODD)
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council discuss and provide direction to staff.
City Attorney Todd Litfin presented an overview of proposed ordinance language utilizing existing administrative citation procedures within Municipal Code Chapter 8. Council discussion ensued regarding fine structure and enforcement.
City council provided feedback and it will be brought back at a future meeting.
M. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
None.
Q. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
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6 Councilwoman Evans – Vacant/Blighted Land Penalty Ordinance Councilwoman Evans requested that the vacant and blighted land penalty ordinance be brought back as a formal ordinance at the next scheduled meeting. A motion was made and seconded. The item was approved unanimously with the following votes:
• Councilwoman Evans – Yes
• Councilmember Meza – Yes
• Councilmember Updegrove – Yes
• Mayor Pro Tem Ramos – Yes
• Mayor Reyes – Yes
Councilmember Uptergrove – AI Policy Review
Councilmember Updegrove requested a review of the City’s current AI-related policies and, if none exist or require updates, the development of new AI policies. Staff confirmed they will provide information on existing policies and updates currently in progress. No formal vote was taken.
Councilmember Meza – Park Dugout Project Measurements
Councilmember Meza requested staff meet with him to obtain park measurements related to proposed dugouts. He indicated he will return to Council with a full scope of work and timeline once preliminary information is gathered. No formal vote was taken.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos – No Items
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos stated he had no future agenda items.
Mayor Reyes – Parks Grant Update & Desert Trails Slide Repair Mayor Reyes requested an update via email on park-related grant applications, particularly those connected to park rehabilitation efforts, including the damaged slide at Desert Trails Park. A 29 City Council Minutes
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7 motion was made and seconded to receive the update. The item was approved unanimously with the following votes:
• Councilwoman Evans – Yes
• Councilmember Meza – Yes
• Councilmember Updegrove – Yes
• Mayor Pro Tem Ramos – Yes
• Mayor Reyes – Yes
Staff further confirmed that the damaged slide will be repaired immediately and will not be delayed pending grant funding.
R. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
None.
S. ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting of the City Council will be held February 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Mayor Reyes adjourned the regular city council meeting at 12:59 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes, seconded by Council Member Meza adjourn the meeting.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voting yes) _________________________
Gabriel Reyes, Mayor
_________________________
Brenda Lopez, City Clerk
30 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
A D E L A N T O G O V E R N M E N T A L C E N T E R | 1 1 6 0 0 A I R E X P R E S S W A Y | A D E L A N T O , C A L I F O R N I A 9 2 3 0 1
DATE: March 11, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
FROM: Jessie Flores, City Manager
BY: Jessie Flores, City Manager
SUBJECT: Consideration of Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) Participation in the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust (SBRHT)
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends City Council approve Resolution 26-05 to participate in the Joint Powers Authority (JPA) for the establishment of the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust (SBRHT) and authorize the Mayor to execute the Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement on behalf of the City of Adelanto.
BACKGROUND:
California continues to face a severe housing supply and affordability crisis driven by high land costs, increasing construction and financing expenses, regulatory complexity, and broader market constraints.
These statewide challenges are particularly pronounced in the High Desert region, where limited housing inventory, rising rents, and economic pressures have compounded housing insecurity and homelessness.
For the City of Adelanto, housing stability and affordability are directly connected to broader economic development goals, public health, workforce attraction, and long-term fiscal sustainability. As a disadvantaged community with limited local revenue capacity relative to housing demand and infrastructure needs, Adelanto faces structural constraints in addressing housing production and preservation independently. Regional coordination and resource leveraging are therefore essential.
In response to increasing concern regarding housing challenges throughout the San Bernardino County region, the City/County Managers Technical Advisory Committee (CCMTAC) of the San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG) formed an ad hoc subcommittee in 2021 to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a regional housing trust fund. SBCOG subsequently released the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust White Paper in January 2022, outlining governance models, funding strategies, and case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of regionally structured housing trust funds.
The White Paper concluded that a regional housing trust fund could provide significant benefits, including administrative efficiency, enhanced competitiveness for state and federal funding, shared governance, and economies of scale not achievable through isolated local efforts.
Following the White Paper, SBCOG developed the SBRHT Strategic Plan, which assessed housing needs across the region and identified potential funding sources, financing tools, and programmatic priorities. 31 Throughout 2022 and 2023, SBCOG conducted extensive outreach with city and county managers, planning staff, elected officials, housing professionals, and development stakeholders.
Based on this outreach and analysis, it was recommended that the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust be structured as a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) comprised of participating local jurisdictions. On April 5, 2023, the SBCOG Board of Directors authorized staff to initiate formation of the JPA.
DISCUSSION:
SBRHT Benefits
The SBRHT aims to provide a coordinated, regional approach to addressing housing needs throughout the San Bernardino region by raising and leveraging funds to support housing development, with a particular focus on affordable housing. Participation in the JPA would:
• Expand funding opportunities by leveraging state, federal, and private resources; • Support affordable housing projects within Adelanto and throughout the region; • Provide regional coordination and administration to address housing needs comprehensively; • Increase development interest and investment in the region; and • Ensure local representation in decision-making through the JPA governance structure.
The Housing Trust Ad Hoc Committee is currently developing recommendations regarding policies and priorities. By joining the JPA, the City would have a direct role in shaping these policies and priorities.
JPA Development
A draft Joint Powers Authority (JPA) Agreement was circulated to all SBCOG member agencies on December 15, 2025 for review and comment. SBCOG received feedback from several jurisdictions and subsequently met with the CCMTAC Housing Trust Ad Hoc Committee on February 5, 2026 and February 23, 2026, to discuss proposed revisions. The attached JPA Agreement reflects revisions based on comments received and discussions held.
The SBRHT Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement incorporates the provisions of SB 20 (2023), as well as the broader Joint Exercise of Powers Act. Utilizing the provisions of SB 20 allows the SBRHT to be an early adopter of this legislation, which may increase visibility and interest from the State Legislature and enhance opportunities for state funding. Incorporation of the broader Joint Exercise of Powers Act provides flexibility for the SBRHT to exercise powers that are common to its member agencies.
The governing structure of the SBRHT is centered on a Board of Directors, which exercises all powers and authority on behalf of the organization. The Board of Directors will consist of one locally elected representative from each participating member agency, as well as at least two housing policy experts.
Housing policy experts will be selected by a vote of the elected members of the Board. The Board will also elect officers, including a Chair and Vice Chair, and may establish advisory committees as needed.
The SBRHT may contract for administrative staff or services as necessary. The Board is responsible for adopting bylaws, overseeing budgets, and ensuring compliance with California’s Joint Exercise of Powers Act and other applicable state laws. All meetings will be conducted in accordance with the Brown Act, ensuring transparency and public accountability. Overall, the governance model balances local representation with subject-matter expertise while maintaining operational independence from its Member Agencies.
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