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
March 25, 2026
A. CALL TO ORDER - REGULAR MEETING
The Adelanto City Council held the Regular Closed Session Meeting on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, via teleconference 1-669 -900-6833 Webinar ID: 931 4644 4676 Passcode: 7601 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.
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 Pro Tem Ramos
Flag Salute: Council Member Meza
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, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes). 20 City Council Minutes
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2 D. CITY MANAGERS ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS
City Manager Jessie Flores- City Manager highlighted several major updates and accomplishments for the City of Adelanto: The City was awarded a multi-million-dollar CalVIP grant to support violence prevention efforts, aimed at reducing gun violence through communitybased programs. An additional grant application is underway that could further increase funding.
The City also received a CalRecycle grant to improve storm drainage at Astor Road and Chamberlain Way, addressing ongoing flooding issues. A partnership with Pelt Beam Inc. will bring high-speed wireless internet to underserved areas at no cost to residents or the City. Two major road rehabilitation projects (Seneca Road and Air Expressway) are moving forward, funded through SB and Measure I funding with no impact on the general fund. The City is implementing high-visibility crosswalk improvements to enhance pedestrian safety, particularly near schools and high-traffic areas.
E. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REPORTS
Council Member Evans- She attended the National League of Cities conference in Washington, D.C., participating in sessions on homelessness, housing, immigration, and civic trust. Key takeaways included the need for a city-specific civility pledge, improved safety planning for council meetings, and programs to promote resident self-sufficiency. She also emphasized better year-round use of NLC resources and applied for additional leadership roles within the organization. Locally, she attended the Phenomenal Queen Symposium at Adelanto High School, supporting mentorship and development opportunities for young women. She met with staff to advance the community garden project, securing plots that will last 10 years. Applications for residents will open immediately, with the first 20 participants receiving the first year free, followed by a monthly fee. A ribbon cutting for the garden is scheduled for April 25.
Council Member Uptergrove- I met with Victory Outreach, which has opened a new branch in Adelanto and is operating out of the stadium, bringing new services to residents. I also held initial discussions with PACE to expand senior services into Adelanto. I attended a Behavioral Health Commission meeting with NAMI representatives, highlighting mental health programs and resources available in the High Desert. Participated in community events, including a McDonald’s ribbon cutting and a youth-focused event featuring Olympic wrestler Helen Morales, promoting mental health awareness and community engagement. Highlighted significant outreach efforts by New Leaf Ministries, which served hundreds of children and families with essential supplies. Assisted large numbers of residents through food distribution. Operated a mobile clothing closet at the senior center
Council Member Meza- Praised the City’s progress on free internet access for residents and ongoing road improvement projects. Recognized a successful fire department training collaboration with Clark Pacific. Attended meetings in Washington, D.C., gaining insights on grant funding strategies, emphasizing the need for stronger presence or representation on the East Coast to secure more funding opportunities. Met with federal officials, including a congressman, 21 City Council Minutes
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3 to discuss and thank them for funding toward water infrastructure improvements, and explored potential partnerships, including international discussions. Attended or acknowledged several community events, including Little League opening day. Highlighted new local businesses, including a flower shop and a sushi restaurant, supporting economic growth. Participated in a Mojave Air District meeting, noting regulatory updates with minimal local impact.
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos- Highlighted the release of Southern California Association of Governments Regional Resilience Toolkit, which will help cities plan projects and secure funding with direct guidance from SCAG. Attended the CivicWell Conference, gaining insights on climate resilience, housing, insurance challenges, renewable energy, and data centers. Participated in the National League of Cities conference in Washington, D.C., emphasizing the importance of active engagement and advocating for the Streamlining Federal Grants Act, which would centralize grant opportunities, improve access for underserved communities, and provide feedback on unsuccessful applications. Stressed the value of conferences and networking, noting that City investments in travel have yielded significant returns in federal funding. Conducted regional collaboration efforts, including meetings with High Desert cities to explore a regional animal shelter and strengthen partnerships. Advocated on issues such as the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act, pushing for fewer development constraints. Encouraged professionalism and unity during election season, urging leaders to stay focused on serving the community. Concluded by recognizing and thanking Deborah Robertson for her mentorship and contributions to the City’s progress.
Mayor Reyes- Emphasized the value of federal resources and tools to boost local economic development, particularly supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship through SBA programs and funding opportunities. Noted the importance of pursuing federal funding rather than competing for limited state resources, especially for disadvantaged communities. Highlighted opportunities in workforce development, including partnerships that align education with job creation. Encouraged staff to fully utilize NLC membership benefits, including access to grants, tools, and resources beyond conferences. Met with Congressman Jay Obernolte to discuss future projects, including transitional housing solutions. Reflected on Adelanto’s progress, noting a significant improvement in the City’s reputation and credibility through collaboration, leadership, and regional partnerships. Stressed the importance of networking and relationship-building, which leads to real solutions and funding opportunities. Expressed appreciation for regional leaders, including Deborah Robertson, for mentorship and support F. PRESENTATIONS
CALVIP Cohort 5 Grant Presentation.
Former City of Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson and Luvina Berkley, presented.
The presentation focused on introducing a strategic partnership and grant-funded initiative for the City of Adelanto:
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4 • Speakers, including Deborah Robertson and project partners, commended the City’s leadership and emphasized the importance of attending conferences, networking, and pursuing grants strategically.
• Introduced the concept of becoming an “EP (Environmental, Economic, Equity) City,” which uses a public-private partnership model to secure and manage grant funding. • Highlighted a $9 million CalVIP grant to implement the RISE Project, aimed at reducing violence through wraparound services, workforce opportunities, and community partnerships.
• The program will target at-risk individuals and families, providing mentorship, business engagement, and wellness resources, including a digital support platform. • Outlined a structured approach involving city oversight, nonprofit and business collaboration, data-driven evaluation, and fiscal accountability. • Described a 3-step process for the City: adopt a resolution to become an EP City, identify grant opportunities, and host community grant workshops. • Emphasized long-term sustainability through continued grant funding, partnerships, and strategic planning.
• Reinforced that collaboration and preparation are key to addressing growth, community needs, and preventing systemic issues.
Council and the representatives from the CALVIP Cohort 5 Grant discussed and all questions were answered.
G. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Reyes opened public comment at 12:36 p.m.
Israel Pacheco - Emphasized that the program gives young people a voice, leadership opportunities, and teamwork experience. Highlighted involvement in the T-Mobile Hometown Grant mural project, which taught planning, collaboration, and funding processes. Expressed excitement about the community mural/mosaic, designed to involve residents of all ages and create a lasting public artwork. Stressed the importance of continued support for youth programs and community events, noting they foster belonging and encourage young people to stay and improve the city. Thanked the City Council, especially Councilmember Evans, for supporting youth initiatives.
Joseph Parsons- Explained that the organization’s role is to support—not lead—by creating space for youth and community members to shape the program themselves. Described YCA as a small but dedicated group of youth (ages teens) and adult allies, working together through workshops on civic engagement, systems awareness, and trauma-informed learning. Emphasized that youth, even if they cannot vote, still have a voice and ability to influence their community through participation and public engagement. Highlighted the community mural project as a direct outcome of youth leadership and collaboration. Thanked the City Council, especially Councilwoman Evans, for their support and letter of endorsement. Stressed that programs like 23 City Council Minutes
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5 YCA help build civic engagement, leadership skills, and a strong sense of belonging among youth. Invited City leaders to attend future workshops to see the program’s impact firsthand.
Susan Gomez -Described the organization as a coalition of over 70 nonprofits serving San Bernardino and Riverside counties, focused on building nonprofit capacity and securing public funding to meet community needs. They shared that they have been working in Adelanto for nearly two years, supporting local youth and community engagement efforts. Emphasized the organization’s mission to bridge government funding and community needs through sustainable nonprofit infrastructure. Noted a personal connection to the High Desert and Adelanto, reinforcing why the City was chosen for the project. Praised the youth participants for their leadership and impact, inspiring the organization’s work. Thanked the City Council, especially Councilwoman Evans, for their support and advocacy. Expressed commitment to continued partnership and involvement in strengthening the Adelanto community.
Nirvana Pacheco- Emphasized the value of empowering youth by listening to them and allowing them to lead, noting their growth in confidence and leadership. Highlighted the Adelanto community mosaic project as a symbol of unity, pride, and long-term community connection.
Stressed the need for more consistent youth opportunities, including safe spaces, mentorship, transportation, and pathways to education and employment. Noted that providing these resources locally helps youth stay, invest in their community, and contribute to the city’s future. Thanked the City Council, especially Councilmember Evans, for supporting youth-focused and community-driven initiatives.
London Rayne- A local student and member of the Youth for Change Alliance design team, thanked the City Council for supporting the program. She shared that YCA has helped her learn about policy and civic engagement, which she sees as important to her future goal of becoming a doctor. She expressed appreciation for the Council’s service and encouraged them to continue their work in improving the community.
Diana Esmeralda- Founder of the nonprofit We Love Adelanto, invited the community to an upcoming Art Walk in April, offering free booth space for nonprofits to participate in outreach.
She shared her passion for bringing residents together through music and the arts, including plans to form a community choir. She also highlighted her children’s book focused on emotional intelligence, gardening, and environmental stewardship, and encouraged the community to get involved in arts, music, and upcoming events.
Mayor Reyes closed public comment at 12:49 p.m.
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6 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. Approval of meeting minutes: January 14, 2026 – Regular Meeting January 28, 2026 – Regular Meeting
February 2, 2026- Workshop Meeting
3. Approval of 2
nd Reading of Ordinance 660 entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 660
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO, COUNTY
OF SAN BERNARDINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND AMENDING SECTION 17.20.080 (ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS) OF CHAPTER 17.20 (RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS) OF TITLE 17 (ADELANTO ZONING ORDINANCE) OF THE ADELANTO MUNICIPAL CODE IN
ORDER TO UPDATE THE CITY'S ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS REGULATIONS SO THAT SUCH REGULATIONS ARE CONSISTENT WITH GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 66326.
4. Approval of 2nd Reading of Ordinance 661 entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 661
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO PERTAINING
THE MAINTENANCE OF VACANT LAND OR PROPERTY
5. Approval of Ordinance 663 entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 663
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 5.08 (GARAGE AND YARD SALES) OF THE ADELANTO MUNICIPAL CODE TO ALLOW UP TO TWO (2) YARD OR GARAGE SALES PER MONTH AND TO ESTABLISH A TEN DOLLAR ($10.00) PERMIT FEE
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7 6. Approval of Warrant Demand Schedule 25/26-09-02
a. City of Adelanto Check Warrant No. 151730 through 151742 in total amount of $104,779,90.
b. City of Adelanto EFT No. 4249 through 4254 and 5087 through 5186 in total amount of $1,133,803.42.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded Council Member Evans 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
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 APUA agenda as authorized by Government Code Section 36934, unless otherwise directed by the City Council.
2. Consideration of the Purchase of Carryover and Replacement Water Rights Acquisition.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded Council Member Meza to approve the APUA consent calendar as presented.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
J. ADELANTO PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY NEW BUSINESS
1. APPORVAL OF THE ADELANTO PUBLIC UTILITY AUTHORITY WATER MASTER PLAN (CHRIS).
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the City Council accept and authorize publication of the Adelanto Water Master Plan.
Mayor Reyes opened Public Comment at 1:15 p.m.
Mayor Reyes closed Public Comment at 1:15 p.m.
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8 MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to approve the Water Master Plan.
Motion carried 4-1 (Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes and Council Member Evans abstained).
K. NEW BUSINESS
1. APROVAL OF ORDINANCE 662 OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO AMENDING CHAPTER 2.08 OF
THE ADELANTO MUNICIPAL CODE TO REMOVE THE BOND REQUIREMENT FOR THE CITY CLERK AND RENUMBER SUBSEQUENT SECTIONS (TODD).
ORDINANCE NO. 662
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ADELANTO, COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.08
OF THE ADELANTO MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO REMOVE THE BOND
REQUIREMENT FOR THE CITY CLERK AND RENUMBER SUBSEQUENT
SECTIONS
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council introduce and conduct the first reading of Ordinance No. 662 to approve an ordinance of the city of amending Chapter 2.08 of the Municipal Code to remove the bond requirement for the City Clerk and Renumber Subsequent Sections. City Council schedules the second reading of Ordinance No. 662 for the next regularly scheduled Council meeting.
City Attorney Todd Litfin presented the staff report.
City Council and the City Attorney discussed, and all questions were answered.
Mayor Reyes opened Public Comment at 1:23 p.m.
Diana Esmeralda- The bond for the city clerk, I think, should be eliminated also because the city has indemnity from being sued by individuals. So, she's already covered Thank you so much for your time
Mayor Reyes closed Public Comment at 1:25 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza seconded Mayor Pro Tem Ramos to approve Ordinance 662.
Motion carried 4-1 (Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes and Council Member Evans voted no).
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9 2. APPOINTMENT OF A MEMBER TO THE SAN BERNARDINO REGIONAL HOUSING TRUST BOARD.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends City Council appoint a member to the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust Board.
City Council and staff discussed, and all questions were answered.
The City Council voted to select Mayor Pro Tem Ramos as the Board Member to the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority Regional Housing Trust Board.
Mayor Reyes opened Public Comment at 1:32 p.m.
Diana Esmeralda- an Adelanto resident, suggested that Councilmember Uptergrove or Councilmember Meza would be strong representatives for community efforts, noting their involvement and potential to expand outreach, particularly in areas like mental health, housing, and community services. She thanked the Council for the opportunity to speak.
Mayor Reyes closed Public Comment at 1:34 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes seconded Council Member Meza to approve Mayor Pro Tem Ramos as the Board Member.
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 Meza- A presentation from the Victorville Wellness Center.
MOTION: Moved by Council Member Meza seconded by Mayor Reyes to approve the presentation.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos- Discussion and Direction item for the City to Host a Bi-Annual or Annual Job Fair.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ramos seconded by Mayor Reyes for the item to come before the City Council.
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10 Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Mayor Pro Tem Ramos- Discussion and Action item for the Military Banner Program and a presentation by the banner company.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ramos seconded by Mayor Reyes to add to the agenda the Military Banner Program and a presentation.
Motion carried 5-0 (Evans, Meza, Uptergrove, Mayor Pro Tem Ramos and Mayor Reyes voted yes).
Mayor Reyes- A presentation from the City of Ventura Council Member on the Transitional Housing Program.
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).
N. ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting of the City Council will be held on April 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Mayor Reyes adjourned the regular city council meeting at 1:44 p.m.
MOTION: Moved by Mayor Reyes, seconded by Council Member Meza 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
Prepared by Deputy City Clerk Velis
29