CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
Lancaster City Council and
Palmdale City Council
Monday, July 31, 2023
4:00 P.M.
Antelope Valley College
Performing Arts Theatre
3041 W. Ave K
Lancaster, CA 93536
http://www.cityofpalmdale.gov
http://www.cityoflancasterca.gov
MEETING ASSISTANCE INFORMATION
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Cities have implemented a procedure for receiving and swiftly resolving requests for reasonable modification or accommodation from individuals with disabilities, consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act and resolving any doubt whatsoever in favor of accessibility. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk of Palmdale at (661) 267- 5151 and/or the City Clerk of Lancaster at (661) 723- 6020 or via email at [email protected] or
[email protected]. To ensure availability, you are advised to make your request at least 72 hours prior to the meeting/event you wish to attend. Due to difficulties in securing sign language interpreters, five or more business days notice is strongly recommended.
For additional information, please contact the City Clerk of Palmdale at (661) 261- 5151 and/or City Clerk of Lancaster at (661) 723-6020.
AGENDA ITEMS TO BE REMOVED
Sometimes it is necessary to remove items from the agenda. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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LIVE BROADCAST
1. Spectrum local access Channel 27 and local access Channel 28
2. Online live webcast at https://www.cityofpalmdaleca.gov/955/Agendas-and-Meetings; and https://www.cityoflancasterca.org/our-city/departments-services/city-clerk/meetings-agendas- and-minutes/public-meetings-web-streaming
PUBLIC BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR - AGENDIZED ITEMS
Any person who would like to address the Legislative Bodies on any agendized item is requested to complete a speaker card for the City Clerks/Agency/Authority Secretaries and identify the agenda item you would like to discuss. Each person will be given an opportunity to address the Legislative Bodies at the time such item is discussed. Speaker cards are available at the interior entrance to the Performing Arts Theatre and your speaker card must be filled out prior to the agenda item being called. We respectfully request that you fill the cards out completely and print as clearly as possible. Following this procedure will allow for a smooth and timely process for the meeting and we appreciate your cooperation. Individual speakers are limited to three (3) minutes each unless a different time limit is announced.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL
Los Angeles County: Supervisor Kathryn Barger
Lancaster City Council: Mayor Parris; Vice Mayor Crist; City Council Members: Dorris, Malhi, and Mann
Palmdale City Council: Mayor Bettencourt, Mayor Pro Tem Alarcón, City Council Members: Bishop, Loa, and Ohlsen
3. INVOCATION
4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
5. OPENING COMMENTS BY SUPERVISOR KATHRYN BARGER
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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6. PRESENTATIONS
6.1 Center for Transportation Technology Excellence
6.2 Care Court
7. JOINT NEW BUSINESS
7.1 AV Fair Multi Agency Regional Resiliency Center (MARRC) and Palmdale Regional Recreation Center
Recommendations:
1. City of Palmdale: (i) identify and appropriate $10 million for the MARRC facility; and (ii) reaffirm its commitment to the development of a center that will serve residents of the City of Palmdale in times of emergencies that may happen to occur.
2. City of Lancaster: (i) acknowledge it has contracted for design services in the amount of $6.5 million; and (ii) reaffirm its commitment to developing a funding strategy which will fully fund the construction of the evacuation center and direct the City Manager to pursue all available funding sources including, but not limited to, grant funds and/or debt financing.
In May 2021, at the Joint Palmdale and Lancaster City Council meeting, the City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale identified the need for a new, larger, Event Center that, with certain facility upgrades, may also serve as a Regional Evacuation Center for the Antelope Valley, as well as a Regional Recreation Complex that provides a multi -generational place of entertainment for the Antelope Valley. Working together the Cities were tasked to expeditiously and efficiently identify a location, finance, and oversee the process of environmental review, design, bid, and construction of each project to their respective completion.
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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7.2 Animal Care & Control
Recommendation:
Review and consider options to mitigate the cost of animal care and control services through programs, engage local rescues, and feasibility study options for alternatives.
The cities of Palmdale and Lancaster (Cities) contract with the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control (County) to provide general animal care and control services within the corporate limits of the Cities, in accordance with the provisions outlined in Title 10, Animals of the Los Angeles County Code, and its amendments with the exceptions identified in the annual service level request. The Cities may opt out of certain provisions of Title 10 and substitute with a lawful City ordinance to be enforced in lieu of a County Ordinance.
The Cities complete an annual Service Level Request form identifying planned services and the rate for each service. The billing rate is established by the County’s Department of Animal Care and Control and approved by the Auditor Controller. The rates indicated in the Service Level Request form are readjusted by the County annually to increase or decrease to reflect the cost of each service. The Cities are billed based on the service level provided, within the parameters of the annual Service Level Request form.
7.3 Antelope Valley Community Workforce Agreement (CWA)
Recommendations:
1. Approve and authorize the City Managers, or their designees, to collaborate with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council to identify, support and/or pursue changes to the Vehicle Miles Traveled M etric established by the State of California through the passage of Senate Bill 743.
2. Approve and authorize the City Managers, or their designees, to negotiate with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council a mutually beneficial community work force agreement.
In late 2017, the City of Lancaster leadership staff met with representatives of the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council to negotiate and prepare an agreement that would establish the labor relations policies and pr ocedures for the City and for the craft employees represented by the Unions engaged in work on certain City of Lancaster improvement projects. The agreement was approved and authorized by the Lancaster City Council during their regular meeting on January 23, 2018. On October 2, 2018, the Palmdale City Council approved a similar Community Workforce Agreement to strengthen the Antelope Valley’s commitment to utilizing a skilled and trained workforce. Over the course of the last several years, both the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale have had additional conversations and meetings with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council. During these meetings the impacts of Senate Bill 743 to development in Suburban communities was discussed. It was mutually agreed that Senate Bill 743 creates barriers to development projects in suburban communities like the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale.
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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7.4 Wellness Center
Recommendations:
1. Authorize each City’s respective staff to develop and release a Request for Proposal for Wellness Center Operation (“RFP”) that generally requires a proposal to include at least the following information: (i) proposed operator’s identity, relevant experience, and ownership information; (ii) proposed location of the Wellness Center; and (iii) proposed programing, services, and other resources to be offered at the Wellness Center.
2. Authorize each City’s respective staff to coordinate and work with the operator (“Operator”) selected pursuant to the RFP process above and/or the County of Los Angeles to identify potential funding sources for the Operator to (i) identify, acquire, assemble, develop, and/or rehabilitate a site for operation of the Wellness Center and (ii) operate the Wellness Center on a long-term basis.
3. Authorize each City’s respective staff to negotiate and draft a Wellness Center Operating Agreement with the Operator.
4. Authorize each City’s City Manager, or his or her designee, to execute all documents (including, without limitation, the Wellness Center Operating Agreement) and take all actions necessary or convenient to facilitate Operator’s development and operation of the Wellness Center.
Across the nation, cities are facing the challenges presented by addiction and the opioid crisis. This crisis is inextricably linked with homelessness. Studies show that approximately one- third of unhoused individuals have issues related to alcohol and/or drugs, and approximately two-thirds have lifetime histories of drug or alcohol use disorders, according to American Addiction Centers.
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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7.5 Auto Dealers Sales Tax Sharing Agreement
Recommendations:
1. Direct staff to draft a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Palmdale and the City of Lancaster based on the deal points outlined within this staff report; and,
2. Authorize the City Managers, or their designees, to execute the Memorandum of Understanding.
Over the past 40 years, the cities of Palmdale and Lancaster have competed to attract new business and investment to each respective city. This type of competition is not unique to the Antelope Valley. Local, regional, and state governments routinely offer financial incentives including sales tax rebates, reduced land costs, and tax credits to entice businesses to locate in their jurisdiction. Vehicle dealerships are major sales tax generators for California cities. As a result, jurisdictions often go to great lengths, including offering sales tax rebates and other incentives, to attract and retain dealerships. In order to avoid these negative impacts, it would be beneficial for the cities of Palmdale and Lancaster to work together on creating policies to prevent this practice from occurring in the future.
7.6 Antelope Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District
Recommendation:
Direct staff of both Cities to explore opportunities and engage in discussions regarding entering a joint effort to ensure continued funding and support of the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District.
The City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale have historically faced similar health and safety concerns regarding mosquitos and have engaged in related regulatory and prevention efforts. The Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District (the District) is a special district formed in 1958. It provides essential mosquito abatement services to the approximately 250 square miles covering most of Palmdale, Lancaster, and areas of LA County. District services include spraying standing water regularly throughout mosquito season, responding to service requests to treat backyards, and performing public outreach to educate the public on the dangers of mosquitoes and their breeding sources
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA / CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF LANCASTER, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JULY 31, 2023
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7.7 Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District ( AVAQMD) Petition for Review of US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Decision
Recommendation:
Authorize and direct each City’s respective staff to work with the AVAQMD, including entering into a common interest/joint defense agreement with AVAQMD regarding its filing a petition for review to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the EPA’s decision.
The AVAQMD is the local agency with the primary responsibility for the control of non-vehicular sources of air pollution throughout the Antelope Valley. The AVAQMD’s Governing Board is comprised of two members of the Palmdale City Council, two members of the Lancaster City Council, two members appointed by the 5th District Supervisor of Los Angeles County, and one public member. The AVAQMD’s mission is to protect the people and the environment of the Antelope Valley from the effects of air pollution through developing and implementing programs and regulations to improve air quality . On July 3, 2023, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued its “Air Plan Approval and Limited Approval-Limited Disapproval; California; Antelope Valley Air Q uality Management District; District; Stationary Source Permits; New Source Review” (Final Rule) 88 Fed. Reg. 42621- 01 (July 3, 2023). This EPA Final Rule disapproves AVAQMD’s longstanding practice with regard to New Source Review and, if it should be upheld, would have dramatic impacts on industry throughout the Antelope Valley, including the aerospace industry. The AVAQMD Board of Directors has authorized the filing of a Petition for Review with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the rule.
8. CLOSING COMMENTS BY CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
9. ADJOURNMENT
AGENDA ADDENDUM INFORMATION
On occasion items may be added after the agenda has been mailed to subscribers. Copies of the agenda addendum item will be available at the City of Palmdale’s City Clerk Department and City of Lancaster’s City Clerk Department, and posted with the agenda on the windows of the City of Palmdale’s Council Chambers and the City of Lancaster’s Council Chambers . For more information, please call the City Clerk of Palm dale at (661) 261- 5151 and/or the City Clerk of Lancaster at (661) 723-6020.
All documents available for public review are on file with the City of Palmdale’s City Clerk Department and the City of Lancaster’s City Clerk Department.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.1
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: CITY OF LANCASTER AND CITY OF PALMDALE
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: AV FAIR MULTI AGENCY REGIONAL RESILIENCY CENTER (MARRC) AND PALMDALE REGIONAL RECREATION CENTER
ISSUE
In partnership, the City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale, were tasked to identify a location, plan and scope, secure funding, design and construct improvements for a new Antelope Valley Event Center and Regional Recreation Center.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. City of Palmdale: (i) identify and appropriate $10 million for the MARRC facility ; and (ii) reaffirm its commitment to the development of a center that will serve residents of the City of Palmdale in times of emergencies that may happen to occur.
2. City of Lancaster: (i) acknowledge it has contracted for design services in the amount of $6.5 million; and (ii) reaffirm its commitment to developing a funding strategy which will fully fund the construction of the evacuation center and direct the City Manager to pursue all available funding sources including, but not limited to, grant funds and/or debt financing.
BACKGROUND
In May 2021, at the Joint Palmdale and Lancaster City Council meeting, the City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale identified the need for a new, larger, Event Center that, with certain facility upgrades, may also serve as a Regional Evacuation Center for the Antelope Valley, as well as a Regional Recreation Complex that provides a multi-generational place of entertainment for the Antelope Valley. Working together the Cities were tasked to expeditiously and efficiently identify a location, finance, and oversee the process of environmental review, design, bid, and construction of each project to their respective completion.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: AV FAIR MULTI AGENCY REGIONAL RESILIENCY CENTER (MARRC) AND PALMDALE
REGIONAL RECREATION CENTER
July 31, 2023
DISCUSSION
City of Lancaster Status Update: In 2021, the City of Lancaster began evaluating sites best suited for the Event Center and Regional Evacuation Center. The existing 135-acre Antelope Valley Fairgrounds is uniquely setup for expansion, and already offers heating, cooling, and some protection from the elements (for humans and livestock); large- scale parking accommodations, on-site maintenance facility with equipment, an d sufficient infrastructure for electrical, water, broadband, Wi -Fi, full on -site hook-ups for RV’s and office trailers, existing restrooms and showers adjacent; helipad, four (4) onsite kitchen facilities, refrigerated storage, and the framework for its own micro-grid. The Fairgrounds is also a fenced and secured facility with controlled access points. It is an ideal location for sheltering and the only place in the AV suitable to accommodate large quantities of people. The facility is currently set -up 365 days a year as a large animal evacuation center and currently is in use multiple times a year. Dubbed the Multi-Agency Regional Resiliency Center, or MARRC, the location will support the development of a fully functioning, large scale, off the grid, resilient, emergency and incident support campus at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, AV Fair and Event Center.
In February 2022, the City of Lancaster entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Antelope Valley Fair Authority (AV Fair Authority) to loan funds to the project; concurrently, the AV Fair Authority executed an Individual Project Agreement (IPA) with the California Construction Authority (CCA) for Project Management and Design services. The City of Lancaster has committed over $6M for design of the project.
The CCA has completed a facility needs assessment, 30% conceptual design, added a second building to house the Emergency Operations Center & Assembly Hall, and awarded a contract for final design and the preparation of Construction Documents. Currently, CCA is approaching their 60% milestone.
Final design and permitting are expected to be complete in early 2024 with construction completed and move-in in Fall 2025.
Construction is estimated at $70-90M. To cover these costs, the City of Lancaster, the Fair, City of Palmdale, County of Los Angeles, and the State of California Department of Food and Agriculture are partnering to pool resources to get this project built and operational.
In June 2023, the Antelope Valley Fair Authority received a $20.5 million grant from the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Fairs and Expositions Branch for MARRC improvements.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: AV FAIR MULTI AGENCY REGIONAL RESILIENCY CENTER (MARRC) AND PALMDALE
REGIONAL RECREATION CENTER
July 31, 2023
City of Palmdale Status Update: In Summer 2021, the City of Palmdale released a Request for Qualifications and Proposals for consultants to engage public opinion through community outreach, analyze and recommend potential site selections, prepare a conceptual architectural and civil design, and provide an early opinion of probable construction cost for three potential site locations. The City received sixteen (16) statements of qualifications and proposal packages and upon thorough review, the City selected and entered into a contract with Barker Rinker Seacat Architecture, (BRS). This is the first phase of Regional Recreation Complex and that resulted in a site selection, conceptual design, and project pro forma analysis that incorporates current industry trends and captures the interests and desires of the community.
An Executive Steering committee, comprised of City staff, along with a Quality of Life committee, comprised of key stakeholders, including, but not limited to: AV Union High School District, Plant 42, Palmdale Aerospace Academy, Antelope Valley Boys & Girls Club and key business owners, met with BRS to begin the outreach process and help guide the needs and wants of the facility.
Through October 2021 – May 2022, the above team held five (5) local workshops, processed surveys and developed several iterations of plans taking the thoughts and needs of the public into consideration. Upon compilation of all the information, BRS prepared a feasibility study that reflected the following criteria:
1. 3 potential locations picked – as shown
a. Adjacent to Rancho Vista Boulevard and Division Street b. North of Palmdale Blvd along Division Street
c. South of Palmdale Blvd along Division Street
2. 113,700 square foot facility, 3 story facility including amenities:
a. Gymnasium
b. Multi activity court gym
c. Multi-purpose room
d. Catering Kitchen
e. Indoor Recreation Activity Pool area
f. Spinning & aerobic studios
g. Tech arena
h. Event Hall
i. Walking Jog Track
j. Site amenities (40 – 59 acres) include:
i. 8-court pickleball area
ii. 4 tennis courts
iii. 2 full size basketball courts
iv. Playground area for 2-5 and 5-12
v. Passive play area
vi. Future expansion
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: AV FAIR MULTI AGENCY REGIONAL RESILIENCY CENTER (MARRC) AND PALMDALE
REGIONAL RECREATION CENTER
July 31, 2023
3. Probable Project Estimates: Not including cost of land, project costs range from $102 million to $110 million. These costs include escalation assumption to a March 2025 mid-point of construction timeline.
4. Next steps:
a. Determine funding availability
b. Determine project location
c. Implement project entitlement
d. Implement project design
FISCAL IMPACT
City of Lancaster -There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. Projects costs are not to exceed a total of $90 Million for development and completion of the project in its entirety.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.2
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: SOPHIA REYES, DIRECTOR OF NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES, CITY
OF PALMDALE
RODERICK ARMALIN, DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY , CITY OF
LANCASTER
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL
ISSUE
County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control cost of Animal Care and Control services is increasing at a high rate.
RECOMMENDATION
Review and consider options to mitigate the cost of animal care and control services through programs, engage local rescues, and feasibility study options for alternatives.
BACKGROUND
The cities of Palmdale and Lancaster (Cities) contract with the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control (County) to provide general animal care and control services within the corporate limits of the Cit ies, in accordance with the provisions outlined in Title 10, Animals of the Los Angeles County Code, and its amendments with the exceptions identified in the annual service level request. The Cities may opt out of certain provisions of Title 10 and substitute with a lawful City ordinance to be enforced in lieu of a County Ordinance. The Cit ies complete an annual Service Level Request form identifying planned services and the rate for each service.
The billing rate is established by the County’s Department of Animal Care and Control and approved by the Auditor Controller. The rates indicated in the Service Level Request form are readjusted by the County annually to increase or decrease to reflect the cost of each service.
The Cities are billed based on the service level provided, within the parameters of the annual Service Level Request form.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL
July 31, 2023
In 2021 the Cities sent a joint letter to Supervisor Kathryn Barger sharing concerns regarding the proposed new billing methodology that significantly increased the amount to be paid for animal control services through a per -capita surcharge, ultimately increasing the flat rate for kennel services to 10-days from the 5-day flat rate, overhead charges for both kennel services and field services, and Cities being expected to cover the “judicial” process for the animals being held. The joint letter requested a more equitable distribution of costs between the Cities and County.
DISCUSSION
In 20 21-2022 Palmdale’s estimated cost of animal control services was $978,330 with fees collected of $219,499 for a Net Cost of $758,831. The actual cost for 2021- 2022 was $1,062,815, with fees of $ 216,738 for a net cost of $ 846,077. For 2022- 2023 Palmdale’s estimated cost of animal control services is $1,214,502 with fees collected of $219,499 for a Net Cost of $995,003. The year-to-date cost through May 2023 is $1,358,057 with fees of $168,690 for a net cost of $1,189,367. In the current year, Palmdale is trending to exceed $1, 310,000 in net cost for animal care services, a 54.8% increase from the prior year.
In 2021-2022 Lancaster’s estimated cost of animal control services was $ 1,083,987 with fees collected of $ 201,637 to for a Net Cost of $ 882,350. The actual cost for 2021- 2022 was $1,347,098 with fees of $201,637 for a net cost of $1,145,461. For 2022- 2023 Lancaster’s estimated cost of animal control services is $1,260,000 with fees collected of $185,986 for a Net Cost of $ 1,074,014. The year-to-date cost through May 2023 is $1,726,739 with fees of $171,273 for a net cost of $1,555,466. In the current year, Lancaster is trending to exceed $1,730,000 in net cost for animal care services, a 28% increase from the prior year.
In 2022-2023 the County’s overall cost increase due to changes in billing rates will be 11%, less than the anticipated step-up plan schedule that was estimated to be an increase of 47% by Step 2, the Flat Rate per Impound. The per capita charge for Full-Service cities is $0.72. The billing rates, as presented by the County , do not appear to have a large impact , but the increase in actual costs for the two Cities is significant.
Over the course of the past several years, Palmdale and Lancaster have actively discussed possible solutions to mitigate the cost of animal control services. June 2022, Palmdale implemented a low-cost spay/neuter program in partnership with Karma Rescue. Over 1,000 pets and feral cats have received services. New strategies are being developed to include, engaging local rescues to be featured in the “4-Legged Friday” social media campaign and offering additional incentives for adoptions. County outreach events are featured on City social media platforms. Lancaster has partnered with Spay4LA to provide low cost spay/neuter services to residents of Lancaster and promoted the adoption of dogs and cats from LA County Animal Care and Control at Neighborhood Watch Meetings and at Farmers Market on the first Thursday of every month.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL
July 31, 2023
Currently, Palmdale has entered into an agreement with Animal Arts Design Studios, Inc. to conduct an animal shelter and animal services feasibility study on Palmdale providing its own animal care services, exploring the pros and cons of entering into a cooperative agreement for the region, and analysis of programs that could reduce the need for sheltering and further the City’s high placement goals. The study is scheduled to be completed in November 2023.
The Cities will continue to explore programs and options to reduce the cost of animal care and control. When the feasibility study is completed, Staff will review the findings, and meet to discuss the options.
FISCAL IMPACT
No fiscal impact.
STRATEGIC PLAN
Palmdale:
Goal II: Ensure long-term fiscal health of the City and maintain funding for services.
A. Manage resources, costs, and liabilities to ensure the City’s long -term fiscal health.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.3
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: TROLIS NIEBLA, ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER, CITY OF
LANCASTER
LUIS GARIBAY, DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF PALMDALE
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: ANTELOPE VALLEY COMMUNITY WORKFORCE AGREEMENT
(CWA)
ISSUE
The cities of Lancaster and Palmdale, in partnership, propose to collaborate with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council to negotiate and execute mutually beneficial community workforce agreements that would be followed and implemented by both jurisdictions.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Approve and authorize the City Managers, or their designees, to collaborate with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council to identify, support and/or pursue changes to the Vehicle Miles Traveled Metric established by the State of Californi a through the passage of Senate Bill 743.
2. Approve and authorize the City Managers, or their designees, to negotiate with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council a mutually beneficial community work force agreement.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: ANTELOPE VALLEY COMMUNITY WORKFORCE AGREEMENT (CWA) July 31, 2023
BACKGROUND
In late 2017, the City of Lancaster leadership staff met with representatives of the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council to negotiate and prepare an agreement that would establish the labor relations policies and procedures for the City and for the employees represented by the Unions engaged in work on certain City of Lancaster improvement projects.
The agreement was approved and authorized by the Lancaster City Council during their regular meeting on January 23, 2018. On October 2, 2018, the Palmdale City Council approved a similar Community Workforce Agreement to strengthen the Antelope Valley’s commitment to utilizing a skilled and trained workforce.
Over the course of the last several years, both the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale hav e had additional conversations and meetings with the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council. During these meetings the impacts of Senate Bill 743 to development in Suburban communities was discussed. It was mutually agreed that Senate Bill 743 creates barriers to development projects in suburban communities like the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale.
The Trades Council has tentatively agreed to work with the State of California to create an alternative path for developments in suburban communities to meet the required vehicle miles traveled mitigation measures. These changes would be beneficial to cities throughout the state like Lancaster and Palmdale, beneficial to the development community, and beneficial to Union members across the board. The streamlining of Senate Bill 743 would be a significant advancement.
Once revisions are made to Senate Bill 743, timing would be most appropriate for a collaboration between cities of Lancaster and Palmdale and the Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building & Trades Council, to establish an updated Antelope Valley Community Workforce Agreement.
The Antelope Valley Community Workforce Agreement would aim to provide local residents with an opportunity to obtain necessary skillsets and increase workforce training opportunities, thereby providing for favorable and well-paid employment opportunities that can lead to homeownership.
DISCUSSION
None.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.4
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: SONYA PATTERSON, DIRECTOR PARCS, ARTS, RECREATION
AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, CITY OF LANCASTER
LARISSA DE LA CRUZ, DIRECTOR – COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF LANCASTER
SOPHIA REYES, DIRECTOR – NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES, CITY
OF PALMDALE
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: WELLNESS CENTER
ISSUE
The Cities of Lancaster (“Lancaster”) and Palmdale (“Palmdale”) (Lancaster and Palmdale are each a “City” and collectively the “Cities”) jointly establishing a strategy for selecting an independent operator to develop and operate a wellness center (“Wellness Center”) that will provide addiction recovery -related resources and services (e.g., transitional housing, case management, and other related service) to Antelope Valley residents.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize each City’s respective staff to develop and release a Request for Proposal for Wellness Center Operation (“RFP”) that generally requires a proposal to include at least the following information: (i) proposed operator’s identity, relevant experience, and ownership information; (ii) proposed location of the Wellness Center; and (iii) proposed programing, services, and other resources to be offered at the Wellness Center.
2. Authorize each City’s respective staff to coordinate and work with the operator (“Operator”) selected pursuant to the RFP process above and/or the County of Los Angeles to identify potential funding sources for the Operator to (i) identify, acquire, assemble, develop, and/or rehabilitate a site for operation of the Wellness Center and (ii) operate the Wellness Center on a long-term basis.
3. Authorize each City’s respective staff to negotiate and draft a Wellness Center Operating Agreement with the Operator.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: WELLNESS CENTER
July 31, 2023
4. Authorize each City’s City Manager, or his or her designee, to execute all documents (including, without limitation, the Wellness Center Operating Agreement) and take all actions necessary or convenient to facilitate Operator’s development and operation of the Wellness Center.
BACKGROUND
Across the nation, cities are facing the challenges presented by addiction and the opioid crisis.
This crisis is inextricably linked with homelessness. Studies show that approximately one-third of unhoused individuals have issues related to alcohol and/or drugs, and approximately two -thirds have lifetime histories of drug or alcohol use disorders, according to American Addiction Centers.
DISCUSSION
On a local level, first responders and medical professionals have reported an ongoing increase in patients seen for addiction and overdoses. The Cities are working together to address this issue. The State of California will receive $2.5 billion from a recent Janssen Pharmaceuti cals settlement to develop and implement opioid abatement measures. The Cities are collaborating to use the local allocation of these funds to provide services such as naloxone training, opioid abuse treatment, services for opioid- addicted pregnancies, and treatment for neonatal abstinence syndrome. These efforts began with a virtual discussion regarding fentanyl abuse on March 1, 2023.
To provide additional support for residents facing addiction and the social impacts of addiction on our community as a whole, the Cities have explored the establishment of a Wellness Center for inpatient addiction treatment and recovery. The proposed Wellness Center is to provide transitional housing, case management, and other addiction recovery related services and resources to Antelope Valley residents.
The Cities will select an Operator through a RFP process and the Operator will be responsible for the development and operation of the Wellness Center. The Cities will coordinate and work with each other, the County of Los Angeles, and the Operator to identify and seek funding sources for the Operator to (i) identify, acquire, assemble, develop, and/or rehabilitate a site for operation of the Wellness Center, (ii) operate the Wellness Center on a long -term basis, and (iii) provide the Cities with regular periodic reports that include statistical data as to Wellness Center’s services and success rates, as well as any service or resource changes proposed by the Operator.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: WELLNESS CENTER
July 31, 2023
The County will provide the Cities and selected Operator support to identify funding. The County’s Department of Public Health- Substance Abuse and Prevention Control (DPH -SAPC) serves as the contractor for the full spectrum of substance abuse prevention, t reatment, and recovery services. On July 11, 2023, Supervisors Janice Hahn and Kathryn Barger co- authored a motion to accept up to $321,189,238 in funds towards bridge housing beds and services for people with serious behavioral health conditions experiencing homelessness. In light of this, DPH-SAPC will develop 300 Recovery Bridge Housing (RBH) beds that provide safe, stable, and supportive living environments for individuals concurrently enrolled in outpatient treatment. Additionally, a new type of interim housing called Recovery Housing (RH) will establish 100 beds and serve as a safety net for those who have engaged in Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment but have not yet established finances and/or found permanent housing.
FISCAL IMPACT
The Cities will provide mutual support when an approved proforma is provided by the selected Operator detailing funding for acquisition and rehabilitation of a selected site for the housing, funding for case management, sustainable operations, and wrap around services to be provided the clients, and identify commitments from community partners to provide additional resources.
STRATEGIC PLAN
Palmdale:
Goal IV: Maintain a desirable community where everyone wants to live, work and play.
B. Provide inclusive access to a variety of supportive services that build a resilient and healthy community.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.5
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: LUIS GARIBAY , DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF PALMDALE
CHENIN DOW, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT & REAL ESTATE, CITY OF LANCASTER
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: AUTO DEALERS SALES TAX SHARING AGREEMENT
ISSUE
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Palmdale and the City of Lancaster prohibiting the use of incentives to relocate existing vehicle dealerships.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Direct staff to draft a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Palmdale and the City of Lancaster based on the deal points outlined within this staff report; and,
2. Authorize the City Manager s, or their designees, to execute the Memorandum of Understanding.
BACKGROUND
Over the past 40 years, the cities of Palmdale and Lancaster have competed to attract new business and investment to each respective city. This type of competition is not unique to the Antelope Valley. Local, regional, and state governments routinely offer financial incentives including sales tax rebates, reduced land costs, and tax credits to entice businesses to locate in their jurisdiction. Although incentives are frequently used, there are concerns regarding the long-term impacts of sales tax rebate programs or other high- cost incentive packages for communities. One such concern is competition between neighboring cities can fuel aggressive bidding wars and drain revenues for essential public services to the detriment of residents and businesses.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: AUTO DEALERS SALES TAX SHARING AGREEMENT
July 31, 2023
Vehicle dealerships are major sales tax generators for California cities. As a result, jurisdictions often go to great lengths , including offering sales tax rebates and other incentives, to attract and retain dealerships. In order to avoid these negative impacts, it would be beneficial for t he cities of Palmdale and Lancaster to work together on creating policies to prevent this practice from occurring in the future.
DISCUSSION
Staff believes that the cities of Palmdale and Lancaster should collaborate to create a MOU to preserve sales tax generated by existing auto dealerships and to prohibit each City from utilizing incentives to encourage a dealership to move to their city. The MOU should be built around the four key deal points outlined below:
1. Cities should not provide any form of financial assistance to an existing vehicle dealer that is relocating from the jurisdiction of one city to the other city. This includes, but is not limited to:
o Appropriation of public funds including loans, grants, or subsidies or the payment for or construction of improvements that benefit the vehicle dealer; o The sale or lease of real property at a cost that is less than fair market value; or, o Payment for, forgiveness of, or reduction of fees.
2. If a vehicle dealership relocates to the other jurisdiction, the local sales tax generated by that dealership should be paid to the dealership’s City of origin. This does not include any added district taxes approved by the jurisdiction.
3. The MOU should apply to any dealership and brand currently located in the cities of Palmdale and Lancaster.
4. New dealerships that will offer a vehicle brand that currently does not exist in the market area should not be subject to the MOU. Staff will collaborate to develop mutually agreed upon terms to minimize the amount of any potential incentive offered to the dealership.
FISCAL IMPACT
Each City will continue to receive sales tax revenues generated by existing vehicle dealerships located within their jurisdiction. The actual amount retained by the cities will vary depending on the dealership.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.6
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: SARA GALLAGHER , DEPUTY CITY MANAGER , CITY OF
PALMDALE
PATTI GARIBAY, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR – COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF LANCASTER
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: ANTELOPE VALLEY MOSQUITO AND VECTOR CONTROL
DISTRICT
ISSUE
Engage in discussion regarding potential funding provided by the City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale to support continued operations of the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District, including options of developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or formation of a Joint Power Authority (JPA).
RECOMMENDATION
Direct staff of both Cities to explore opportunities and engage in discussions regarding entering a joint effort to ensure continued funding and support of the Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District.
BACKGROUND
The City of Lancaster and the City of Palmdale have historically faced similar health and safety concerns regarding mosquitos and have engaged in related regulatory and prevention efforts.
The Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District (the District) is a special district formed in 1958. It provides essential mosquito abatement services to the approximately 250 square miles covering most of Palmdale, Lancaster, and areas of LA County. District services include spraying standing water regularly throughout mosquito season, responding to service requests to treat backyards, and performing public outreach to educate the public on the dangers of mosquitoes and their breeding sources.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: ANTELOPE VALLEY MOSQUITO AND VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT July 31, 2023
In May 2022, Local Measure 22, a Proposition 218 vote, was put forward to the homeowners in the Antelope Valley. This Measure was intended to fund services offered by the District, including storm drain treatments, surveillance operations, and seasonal spraying. Measure 22 did not pass.
The District needed at least 50% approval by the public, and they only received 45% approval.
As a result, the District is currently in a financial deficit and has had to reduce regular services and staff. Specifically, the annual aerial flyover monitoring program, curb and gutter treatments, surveillance, community outreach and education, service request response, and the mosquito fish program has been financially impacted or eliminated. Attached as Exhibit A is a letter from the District providing details of the current financial state of the District. Attached as Exhibit B is a Report from the District with further details.
This financial issue was raised by the District to the City of Palmdale at its Measure AV Oversight Committee meetings on September 28, 2022, and November 30, 2022. Additionally, the District presented data and statistics at these meetings to help tell the story and share the District’s need for support.
The Antelope Valley area has two types of native mosquitos, Culex and Aedes mosquitos, which can transmit diseases such as West Nile, Zika Virus, Dengue Fever, Yellow Fever, and Chikungunya. In the 2022 season, the District applied 5,086 treatments to 1,133 acres of standing water. Due to the lack of funding, the District has sought ongoing funding of $50,000.00 from the City of Palmdale annually to support these efforts.
As part of their due diligence, the City of Palmdale’s Measure AV Oversight Committee has asked the District to provide details on their financial plan, for example, if the funds are provided, how will the funds be distributed; are there any available Federal and State programs that the District can apply for; and are there additional grant opportunities available to support the District.
Answers to these questions will help the City determine if and how it can support the District going forward. To date, these answers have not been provided.
Similarly, the District has also contacted the City of Lancaster and shared their annual expenses and budget. Further information will help Lancaster determine how to support the District.
Both jurisdictions agree that there is a need to coordinate on this issue.
DISCUSSION
This issue and the state of the District impacts both jurisdictions. Ensuring mosquito and vector control is a priority for both Cities, and critical health and safety measures remain in place for all residents.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: ANTELOPE VALLEY MOSQUITO AND VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT July 31, 2023
Both jurisdictions agree that crucial information is needed to determine how to support mosquito and vector control efforts going forward. Further exploration and coordination are necessary to decide on a path forward, including developing an MOU or creati ng a JPA. Coordination and oversight is also a critical piece. Some discussion items between the Cities should include how to ensure oversight of mosquito and vector control efforts if funding is provided to the District. A possible solution could consist of having a member of each City’s City Council as a representative on the oversight board of the District.
Staff from both Cities are seeking direction from the City Councils to regularly meet and work collaboratively to (1) develop a mutually beneficial plan for supporting mosquito and vector control efforts for recommendation to the City Councils, including discussions on the options available to support the District through the development of an MOU, JPA, or other arrangements; and (2) engage in discussions with the District to obtain further information, such as how potential funding from the jurisdictions might be used and potential oversight structures which include the possibility of having a member of each jurisdictions’ City Council holding a seat on the board of the District.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
ATTACHMENT(S):
Exhibit A – Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District Letter.
Exhibit B – Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District Report.
Exhibit A
EXHIBIT B
THE ANTELOPE VALLEY MOSQUITO & VECTOR CONTROL DISTRICT
DATE: September 23, 2022
TO: City of Palmdale, City of Lancaster, County of Los Angeles FROM: Leann Verdick, District Manager
John Manning, Board of Trustees President - County of Los Angeles David Gantenbein, Board of Trustees Vice President - County of Los Angeles Elvie Ancheta, Board of Trustees Secretary - County of Los Angeles Steve Hofbauer, Trustee – City of Palmdale
Tierney Smith-Woods, Trustee - City of Lancaster
SUBJECT: Request for Additional Funding through Lancaster City, Palmdale City and Los Angeles County
SUMMARY:
The Antelope Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is an independent district funded entirely with funds through an assessment on parcels of land within the district boundaries. Due to increase of cost, along with inflation, as well as conducting a Proposition 218 Election Ballot (which ultimately failed), there is a deficit of $305,130 in the AV Mosquito & Vector Control District budget. We are currently working on making cuts to afford these costs (despite rising West Nile human cases in the area and the ever growing population of Aedes aegypti), however we still face the possible threat of having to shut down operations from insufficient funding if we do not receive additional aid from local and county governments; if this were to occur, the responsibilities of mosquito abatement would fall under the city and county duties.
PROPOSAL:
The Antelope Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District recommends shared funding between Lancaster City (by way of Measure LC, or whatever source deemed appropriate), Palmdale City (by way of Measure AV, or whatever source deemed appropriate) and L.A. County for the gap between budget and current revenue; this is to keep our district operational in order to maintain and better the living conditions of the Antelope Valley community through our continued mosquito abatement at the level it currently operates, as well as improve much needed sections of the district.
BACKGROUND:
The Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District is a special district that was formed in 1958 to provide very crucial mosquito abatement services to Lancaster, Palmdale and Quartz Hill. Our goal is to significantly reduce the mosquito population in order to protect the public from deadly diseases that mosquitoes carry such as West Nile Virus and Encephalitis; as well as continue to try to control the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito that has the potential of carrying diseases such as Zika, Yellow Fever, Chikungunya and Dengue Fever. We have seen a 200% increase in the amount of Aedes species trapped since last year. All of our programs (Gutter and Curb, Pools, Ditches and Basins, Storm drains, etc.) and daily operations are funded solely by a small amount of shared general property taxes as well as a modest benefit assessment. The typical single-family home pays between $6.00 - $8.50 per year for our services, which has not been raised since 2005. The operations of our district have undoubtedly become more expensive and have become even more burdening in the last year itself, which is what ultimately prompted us to conduct a Prop 218 measure this past spring. After 9 months of preparation and community outreach, the district held the election in May 2022, needing a simple majority vote to pass.
The newly proposed rate was $10.50 per year (an approximate $2.50 per parcel yearly increase) and the measure failed by a 45/55% margin.
This has been detrimental to the district - forcing us to immediately reduce services and staff.
ANALYSIS:
As part of our surveillance program - (April – August) we have set 515 mosquito traps in 146 locations and caught 3826 female mosquitoes and 3729 male mosquitoes. In June, West Nile Virus was detected in a mosquito sample and a bird in east Lancaster. There have also been 8 confirmed human cases within the Antelope Valley, San Gabriel Valley, and San Fernando Valley areas. Please keep in mind that these numbers are with the aid of our district in fighting and eliminating mosquito breeding. There is not another agency (public or private) that provides mosquito abatement and without additional consistent revenue, we will be unable to continue to provide any services at all.
PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACT:
These areas will be impacted or eliminated altogether:
· Annual aerial flyover to detect green swimming pools (one of the biggest mosquito breeding sources we have).
· Curb & gutter treatment performed by seasonal technicians as well as treatment of storm drains. · Surveillance – setting traps and testing to detect disease (typically the first way to detect West Nile Virus in the AV every year)
· Community Outreach/Education Cuts – a program crucial in bringing awareness to the public of what they can do regarding mosquito breeding sources.
· Service request response rate/cutting types of requests. · Mosquito Fish Program – fish are an integral part of our integrated pest management program – a preferred remedy as opposed to pesticides.
· Job cuts – employing zero seasonal spray technicians who are crucial for continually keeping us proactive in treating standing water before it becomes a mosquito breeding ground.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Our current 2022-2023 annual budget (which includes significant reductions in most line items and includes the debt to SCI Engineers Group, who performed the Prop 218 proceedings):
• $1,421,120
Expected revenue (ad valorem and benefit assessment):
• $1,115,990
Deficit:
• $305,130 (the $234,000 debt to SCI is due in three installments - with payment in full on July 15, 2023).
Our immediate plan of action is to eliminate this deficit and balance our budget in fiscal year 2022-2023.
After this, future consistent annual revenue will also be needed to maintain a high level of mosquito abatement as is dictated by the rising mosquito population. The additional yearly revenue would be essential to meeting the needs of our community.
Immediate action (fiscal year 2023-2024 and beyond):
- 2 additional seasonal spray technicians
- 2 additional full-time technicians assigned to Aedes detection/trapping/prevention - 1 additional full-time GIS/Mapvision coordinator to lead our team with an all-encompassing mapping program essential to tracking technician activity in the field. - Additional public outreach to continue to educate the community on the dangers of mosquito breeding sources.
- Increase in budget line items predicated by cost of living or inflation $283,000
Near future:
- Replacement of 10+ year old vehicles and spray equipment - Enhanced mosquito fish program which is a large part of our integrated pest management plan. - Overhaul and upkeep of chemical shed to maintain compliance with state and local regulations. $100,000
Annual Requested Amount:
- This amount would be split between the three agencies. $383,000
OPTIONS:
The Antelope Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District has the following options:
A. Get Additional Funding Through the Lancaster City, Palmdale City and L.A. County Additional funds through the cities and county , for who we directly benefit , would be the best option. This will allow us to operate at the level we were able prior to the Proposition 218 Ballot Election, as well as improve programs that are in need of modernization in order to heighten our efficacy. With the requested additional funds we know we will be able to provide our district the services it needs and deserves through continual surveillance and treatment.
B. Continue Cutting Services
Without additional funds, we will have to continue to make cuts in order to meet our debt deadlines. Once this is satisfied, we will have to rebuild from the ground up in order to operate within our inadequate budget. This could ultimately lead to shutting down the district.
Joint City Council Staff Report
JNB 7.7
DATE: JULY 31, 2023
TO: HONORABLE MAYORS AND CITY COUNCILS
FROM: BARBARA LODS, APCO
DISTRICT: ALL
SUBJECT: ANTELOPE VALLEY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT (AVAQMD) PETITION FOR REVIEW OF US ENVIRONMENTAL
PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) DECISION
ISSUE
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a rule fundamentally changing how the Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District (AVAQMD) conducts its New Source Reviews that if upheld will have devastating economic impacts on the Antelope Valley.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Authorize and direct each City’s respective staff to work with the AVAQMD, including entering into a common interest/joint defense agreement with AVAQMD regarding its filing a petition for review to the 9
th Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the EPA’s
decision.
BACKGROUND
The AVAQMD is the local agency with the primary responsibility for the control of non-vehicular sources of air pollution throughout the Antelope Valley. The AVAQMD’s Governing Board is comprised of two members of the Palmdale City Council, two members of the Lancaster City Council, two members appointed by the 5th District Supervisor of Los Angeles County, and one public member. The AVAQMD’s mission is to protect the people and the environment of the Antelope Valley from the effects of air pollution through developing and implementing programs and regulations to improve air quality.
Report to Mayors and City Councils
Re: ANTELOPE VALLEY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT D ISTRICT (AVAQMD) PETITION
FOR REVIEW OF US ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) DECISION July 31, 2023
On July 3, 2023, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued its “Air Plan Approval and Limited Approval-Limited Disapproval; California; Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District; District; Stationary Source Permits; New Source Review” (Final Rule) 88 Fed. Reg. 42621-01 (July 3, 2023). This EPA Final Rule disapproves AVAQMD’s longstanding practice with regard to New Source Review and, if it should be upheld, w ould have dramatic impacts on industry throughout the Antelope Valley, including the aerospace industry. The AVAQMD Board of Directors has authorized the filing of a Petition for Review with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals challenging the rule.
DISCUSSION
None.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.