City Council Regular Meeting - 1/27/2026 9:30:00 PM
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Regular Meeting –
1:30 PM
The City Clerk/Agency/Authority Secretary hereby declares the agenda was posted by 6:00 p.m. on
January 23, 2026
at the entrance to Lancaster City Hall
44933 Fern Avenue, Lancaster, CA 93534
LEGISLATIVE BODY
City Council/Successor Agency/Financing/Power Authority Mayor/Chair R. Rex Parris
Vice Mayor/Vice Chair Marvin Crist
Council Member/Agency Director/Authority Member Lauren Hughes-Leslie Council Member/Agency Director/Authority Member Raj Malhi Council Member/Agency Director/Authority Member Ken Mann
AGENDA ITEMS TO BE REMOVED
Sometimes it is necessary to remove items from the agenda. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.
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 Clerk/Agency/Authority Secretary and identify the agenda item you would like to discuss. Each person will be given an opportunity to address the Legislative Body at the time such item is discussed. Speaker cards are available at the rear of the Council Chambers and your speaker card must be filled out and turned in 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.
Consent Calendar items under the Legislative Body may be acted upon with one motion, a second and the vote. If you desire to speak on an item or items on the Consent Calendar, you may fill out one speaker card for the Consent Calendar. You will be given three minutes, unless a different time limit is announced, to address your concerns before the Legislative Body takes action on the Consent Calendar.
LEVINE ACT/GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 84308
Parties to any proceeding involving a license, permit, or other entitlement for use pending before the City Council must disclose any campaign contribution over $500 (aggregated) within the preceding 12 months made by the party, their agent, and those required to be aggregated with their contributions under Gov. Code Section 82015.5. The disclosure must include the amount contributed and the name(s) of the contributor(s). “G.C. Section 84308: Yes” on this agenda indicates that the item is subject to these regulations.
CALL TO ORDER
City Council/Successor Agency/Financing/Power Authority
ROLL CALL
City Council Members /Agency Directors /Authority Members: Hughes-Leslie, Malhi, Mann; Vice Mayor/ Vice Chair Crist, Mayor/Chair Parris
INVOCATION
Eddie Barragan, World Harvest Christian Outreach
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PRESENTATION
1. BLVD Association- 2025 Recap & What’s to Come
Presenter: Michael Flores, Coordinator II-Economic Development
COUNCIL ACTIONS
CONSENT CALENDAR
CC 1.
Waive further reading of any proposed ordinance. (This permits reading the title only in lieu of reciting the entire text.) CC 2.
Approve the City Council/Successor Agency/Financing/Power Authority Regular Meeting Minutes of January 13, 2026 CC 2
CC 3.
Check Registers – December 28, through January 10, 2026 Recommendation(s):
Approve the Check and Wire Registers for payments made December 28, 2025, through January 10, 2026, in the amount of $13,636,691.23 as presented.
At each regular City Council Meeting, the City Council is presented with a check and ACH/wire registers listing the financial claims (invoices) against and paid by the City for the purchase of materials, supplies, services, and capital projects during the prior three to four weeks.
Staff Report
012726 CHECK REGISTER
012726 EFT REGISTER
012726 WIRE REGISTER
CC 4.
Monthly Reports of Investments – December 2025
Recommendation(s):
Accept and approve the December 2025 Monthly Report of Investments as submitted.
Each month, the Finance Department prepares a report listing the investments for all separate entities under the jurisdiction of the City as identified in the City’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
Staff Report
December 2025 Treasury Report - Attachment A
CC 5.
Midtown Recreation Center Improvements: Contract Award
Recommendation(s):
A. Award a contract to Angeles Contractor Inc. for the improvements to the Midtown Education Center, in the amount of $639,780.53 plus a 10% contingency utilizing the Sourcewell public sector contract process.
B. Appropriate $37,990.45 from the General Fund to account CP14BS002.CONST.PARCS (10169900-8000).
C. Find that the City has complied with the California Environmental Quality Act. A Notice of Exemption was filed on March 26, 2025.
D. Authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to execute all contracts and associated documents, subject to City Attorney approval.
The Midtown Recreation Center, located at 2340 W. Ave J-8, Lancaster, CA 93536, is a significant and strategic new acquisition for the Parks, Arts, Recreation, and Community Services (PARCS) department. This facility is poised to become a vital hub for community engagement, featuring a full-size indoor gymnasium, multiple dedicated classrooms, and a spacious outdoor turf area. Its neighborhood-adjacent location will enable PARCS to dramatically expand its recreational programming and better serve the needs of our residents.
Staff Report
01.27.26_Midtown Recreation Center Agreement_FINAL
CC 6.
Additional Authorization No. 2 for Aspen Environmental Group for the Parkway Village Specific Plan Environmental Impact Report Recommendation(s):
Approve Additional Authorization No. 2 to the Professional Services Agreement with Aspen Environmental Group in the amount of $29,134 for additional environmental analysis and preparation of the Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Parkway Village Specific Plan, including responses to comments received on the Draft EIR.
In 2020, City of Lancaster staff started work on the preparation of the Parkway Village Specific Plan to allow for a mixed-use area with a variety of housing types, commercial uses, and community amenities. Aspen Environmental Group was hired at this time to prepare the associated environmental documents including a Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (EIR). In May 2021, the City was awarded a $500,000 under the LEAP grant from HCD for the Parkway Village Project.
Staff Report
Additional Authorization No. 2 for Aspen
Aspen Amendment Request
08.2025 LEVINE ACT STATEMENT
CC 7.
National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Grant Acceptance Recommendation(s):
A.
Accept the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) grant award in the amount of up to $4,500 for the Walk with Ease project to the revenue account SHAPR NRPA.FEDOTHER 30062600-4998.
B.
Appropriate funds in the amount of up to $4,500 to the expenditure account to SHAPR NRPA.MISCGRANT 30062600-5656.
C.
Authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the grant contract, including all necessary documents and provisions, subject to City Attorney approval.
The City of Lancaster was awarded a $4,500 grant through a competitive selection process. This award is in support of the implementation of an arthritis-appropriate, evidence-based intervention (AAEBI) program through local parks and recreation facilities.
Staff Report
1.27.26_SR_NRPA SHAPR_Contract_FULLY EXECUTED
CC 8.
Site Plan Review (SPR) 22-01 - Acceptance of Improvements (Water) Recommendation(s):
Approve the completed water system installed by the developer for the following project:
Project
Location/Owner
SPR No. 22-01
20th Street West and Avenue K (APN: 3129-016-066)
Owner: FRE Lancaster SS, LLC
Water system improvements are approved by the City in order to exonerate the Developer’s Undertaking Agreement and release improvement securities. The water system for this project has been constructed and completed to the satisfaction of the local water purveyor, Los Angeles County Waterworks District 40-04, Antelope Valley, and was constructed according to the approved plans and specifications. Additionally, the work has been inspected and found to be satisfactory by the Director of Public Works.
Staff Report
SPR 22-01_Water_Vicinity Map
SPR 22-01_Water_Levine Act
CC 9.
Site Plan Review (SPR) 22-01 - Acceptance of Improvements (Sewer) Recommendation(s):
Approve the following developer-installed sanitary sewer and accept the sewer for maintenance by the City and for public use:
Project No.
Private Contract No.
Location/Owner
Site Plan Review No. 22-01 85-61 20th Street West and Avenue K (APN: 3129-016-066)
Owner: FRE Lancaster SS, LLC
The listed sanitary sewer has been constructed and completed by the developer in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. The work has been inspected and found to be satisfactory by the Director of Public Works.
Staff Report
SPR 22-01_Sewer_Vicinity Map
SPR 22-01_Sewer_Levine Act
CC 10.
Professional Services Agreement for Assessment District Administration and Support Services to Harris and Associates Recommendation(s):
1. Approve Professional Services Agreement with Harris & Associates for Assessment District Administration and Support Services for an initial five-year term, with one optional one-year extension, in an amount not to exceed $150,000 for the year. Annual compensation for each subsequent year shall increase by no more than five percent (5%) based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with an additional five percent (5%) contingency available annually to accommodate potential increases in development activity and associated district annexations.
2. Authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to sign all documents.
On December 5, 2025, City conducted a competitive Request for Proposals (RFP) for a qualified consultant with experience in assessment district administration to provide consulting and support services. Two proposals were received with Harris & Associates being selected to be awarded the contract based on the final scoring from a committee consisting of staff from the Community Development and Finance Departments.
Staff Report
Harris & Associates Professional Services Agreement_2026 Levine Harris and Assoc. 3.31.25
CC 11.
Ordinance Repealing Sections 10.04.035 and 10.04.040 of the LMC, 4903-4278-5150_1 Recommendation(s):
Adopt
Ordinance No. 1146
repealing sections 10.04.035 and 10.04.040 of the Lancaster municipal code relating to vehicular cruising to align with AB436 which amended Section 21100(k) CVC.
Since the City enacted Ordinance No. 726, the California Legislature passed Assembly Bill 436, which amended Section 21100(k) of the California Vehicle Code to delete the statutory authorization upon which Ordinance No. 726 was based. This impacts sections 10.04.035 and 10.04.040 of the Lancaster municipal code relating to vehicular cruising, requiring those sections to be repealed to remain consistent with state law.
Staff Report
Ordinance Repealing Sections 10.04.035 and 10.04
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING
JPH 1.
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Lancaster, authorizing the issuance of Lancaster Financing Authority Lease Revenue Bonds in an aggregate principal amount of not-to-exceed $28,000,000 and authorizing the execution of necessary documents and certificates and related actions.
Recommendation:
Take the following actions:
ACTING AS THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. Hold a Public Hearing
2. Adopt
Resolution No.____
entitled “Resolution of the City Council of the City of Lancaster, Authorizing the Issuance of Lancaster Financing Authority Lease Revenue Bonds in an Aggregate Principal Amount of not to Exceed $28,000,000 and Authorizing the Execution of Necessary Documents and Certificates and Related Actions.” ACTING AS THE LANCASTER FINANCING AUTHORITY:
3. Adopt
Resolution No. _____
entitled “A Resolution of the Lancaster Financing Authority Authorizing the Issuance of Lancaster Financing Authority Lease Revenue Bonds in an Aggregate Principal Amount of not to Exceed $28,000,000 and Authorizing the Execution of Necessary Documents and Certificates and Related Actions.
The City has identified the need for financing the acquisition, construction and installation of certain capital improvements, including but not limited to the Multi-Agency Regional Resiliency Center, construction of the Avenue J Pocket Park, improvements to American Heroes Park and Jane Reynolds Park, certain other parks and recreation improvements within the City, certain public art projects located within the City, certain street and traffic improvements within the City, and other improvements, facilities and equipment (collectively, the “Projects”).
Staff Report
1. City Council Resolution No. xx-xx
2. Financing Authority Board Resolution No. xx-xx
3. First Amendment to Ground Lease
4. First Amendment to Lease Agreement
5. First Amendment to Assignment Agreement
6. First Supplemental Indenture
7a. Preliminary Official Statement
7b. Appendix A to Official Statement (Lancaster 2026 Bonds)
8. Continuing Disclosure Agreement
9. BPA - Lancaster FA Lease Revenue Bonds Series 2026A
NEW BUSINESS
NB 1.
Adoption and Funding of the YardSmart Lancaster Program Recommendation(s):
1. Approve the establishment and initial General Fund allocation for the YardSmart Lancaster Program
, a citywide beautification and water-conservation initiative designed to assist property owners in converting front-yard turf into drought-tolerant, low-maintenance landscaping.
2. Authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to authorize and sign all documents related to the program.
YardSmart Lancaster is a City-funded beautification and water-conservation initiative created to support Lancaster’s sustainability, water-efficiency, and neighborhood revitalization goals. The program provides direct grants to property owners to replace water-intensive turf with drought-tolerant landscapes, improving curb appeal while encouraging voluntary compliance with City landscaping and property maintenance standards. The program is designed to be proactive rather than punitive, offering financial and technical assistance to help bring visible properties into compliance while enhancing neighborhood aesthetics.
Staff Report
COUNCIL REPORTS
CR 1.
Council Reports
LANCASTER HOUSING AUTHORITY
No action required at this time.
LANCASTER POWER AUTHORITY
No action required at this time.
LANCASTER SUCCESSOR AGENCY
No action required at this time.
CITY MANAGER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ANNOUNCEMENTS
CITY CLERK/AGENCY/AUTHORITY SECRETARY ANNOUNCEMENT
PUBLIC BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR - NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
This portion of the agenda allows an individual the opportunity to address the Legislative Bodies on any item
NOT ON THE AGENDA
regarding City/Agency/Authority business and speaker cards must be submitted prior
to the beginning of this portion of the Agenda. Please complete a speaker card for the City Clerk/Agency/Authority Secretary and identify the subject you would like to address. 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. State law prohibits the Legislative Body from taking action on items not on the agenda and your matter may be referred to the City Manager/Executive Director.
Individual Speakers are limited to three (3) minutes each unless a different time limit is announced.
CITY COUNCIL / AGENCY/ AUTHORITY COMMENTS
CLOSED SESSION
1. Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation: significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.9(d) (2) - four potential cases.
2. Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation: consideration of initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d) (4) – four potential cases.
3. Conference Involving a Joint Powers Agency: Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.96 Discussion will concern: Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District v. United States Environmental Protection
Agency, et al. 9
th
Cir. Case No. 23-1614 Name of local agency representative on joint powers agency board: Marvin Crist, Ken Mann
4. Antelope Valley Groundwater Cases Included Action:
Los Angeles County Waterworks District No. 40 v. Diamond Farming Co.
Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, Case No. BC325201; Los Angeles County Waterworks District No. 40 v. Diamond Farming Co.
Superior Court of California, County of Kern, Case No. S-1500-CV-254-348; Wm. Bolthouse Farms, Inc. v. City of Lancaster, Diamond Farming Co. v.
City of Lancaster, Diamond Farming Co. v. Palmdale Water District Superior Court of California County of Riverside, consolidated actions; Case Nos. RIC 353 840, RIC 344 436, RIC 344 668
5. Galant v. Lancaster School District, LASC Case No. 25AVCV00196
6. Abaied v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 25STCV14733
7. Montenegro v. Green, LASC Case No. 22AVCV01050
8. Perez v. Lancaster, LASC Case No. 23AVCV00577
9. City of Whittier v. Superior Court, LASC Case No. 23 STCP03579
10. Lindo v. Lancaster, LASC Case No. 23AVCV00950.
11. Nazari v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 25AVCV00192
12. Mahfound v. County of Los Angeles, City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 25AVCV00586
13. Morgan v. Antelope Valley Transit Authority,
City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 25AVCV00061
14. Lea v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No.: 25STCV09046
15. Stockman v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 23 AVCV00838
16. Zimmerman v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 24AVCV00848
17. Snyder v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 21AVCV00770
18. Higgins v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 23AVCV00125
19. Wright v. City of Lancaster, LASC Case No. 23AVCV00864
20. Cordova v. City of Lancaster, Case No. 24AVCV00221
21. Darnell Wayne Thomas 25STCV17622
22. Payne v. City of Lancaster 24AVCV00308
ADJOURNMENT
Next Regular Meeting
February 10, 2026 at 1:30 PM
MEETING ASSISTANCE INFORMATION
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this meeting will be held at a location accessible to persons with disabilities; if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at (661)723-6020. Services such as American Sign Language interpreters, a reader during the meeting, and/or large print copies of the agenda are available. 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 at (661)723-6020.
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 Clerk Department and are posted with the agenda on the windows of the City Council Chambers. For more information, please call the City Clerk Department at (661) 723-6020.
All documents available for public review are on file with the City Clerk Department.