1 MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL/SA/HA/PAA/PFA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
38300 SIERRA HIGHWAY, SUITE B
PALMDALE, CALIFORNIA
MAY 5, 2026
5:00 PM
1) CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Mayor Ohlsen called the meeting to order at 5:05 pm.
Note: All City Council memberships are reflected in their City Council titles.
2) ROLL CALL MAYOR OHLSEN, MAYOR PRO TEM BISHOP, COUNCILMEMBERS LOA, BETTENCOURT, ALARCÓN COMMISSIONERS FRAGA-SAENZ, BETTS PRESENT: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón, Christina Fraga-Saenz, Dianne Betts.
ABSENT: None.
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Ohlsen led the pledge of allegiance.
4) PRESENTATIONS
4.1) City of Palmdale Veteran of the Year Award.
Council and representatives from the offices of Congressman Whitesides, Senator Valladares, and Assemblyman Carrillo presented a proclamation and certificates recognizing Mayra Duarte.
Ms. Duarte expressed her appreciation for the recognition and spoke words of encouragement to the community.
4.2) Commendation to Sophia Reyes in honor of her retirement from the City of Palmdale.
Councilmember Bettencourt read the commendation, and Council recognized Sophia Reyes for 30 years of service with the City of Palmdale.
Ms. Reyes spoke about her 30 years of service working for the City of Palmdale.
2 5) NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENTS
The following individuals provided public input: Sandy Carpenter discussed the AV Edge contract, and the Multi -Agency Regional Resilience Center. Eugene Hernandez commented on the Lancaster investigation and spoke in opposition to the AV Edge contract. Dr. Coronado spoke regarding transparency, the city sales tax Measures AV and PD, and city leadership. Bahman Tamjidi discussed a zoning change involving property he owns. Roger Soderstedt commented regarding the K - rails at Arnie Quinones Park. Michelley Benitez spoke regarding the 11.25% tax, city roads, and a directly elected mayor. Rich Gallego spoke about the recent Supreme Court ruling in Louisiana v. Callais and called on the Council to pass an ordinance abolishing the current districts in Palmdale and providing the opportunity for the voters to decide if they want districts on an at -large situation. Marcos Alvarez provided the history of Cinco de Mayo. An unidentified man spoke regarding an at - large mayor, the AV Edge contract, and the 11.25% tax increase. An unidentified woman commented regarding tax dollars, potholes, and the winter shelter and services for the homeless. Mark Maldonado commented regarding 11.25% tax and the concerns of the people, and bringing smoke shop businesses to Palmdale.
Chuck Murphy spoke his Music and Kids program and working with the school district.
Mayor Ohlsen discussed his opposition to Measure ER and the importance of protecting tax revenue for the City of Palmdale.
Councilmember Loa discussed the benefits of Measure PD, local control, and demonstrating results from the funding.
Councilmember Alarcón read her statement opposing Measure PD when it was originally proposed. She requested that a draft resolution be brought back to Council for further consideration. She read the resolution into the record and introduced the following motion.
Motion that the Council instructs the City Attorney to:
1. Draft a resolution ordering that an ordinance to fully repeal Measure PD be submitted to the voters at the General Municipal Election to be held on November 3, 2026;
2. Draft a resolution to defer the implementation and collection of the full amount of the Measure PD sales tax increase. This deferral shall remain in effect until November 3, 2026, election results are certified; and
3. Both the aforementioned resolutions shall be drafted and brought back to the Council for consideration and action at its next regularly scheduled CC meeting.
Councilmember Alarcón stated that she was requesting the item be placed on a future agenda so the Council could fully discuss it. The motion was seconded by Councilmember Bettencourt.
Mayor Ohlsen stated that he did not want to consider repealing Measure PD if doing so would open up more of the sales tax cap. He suggested that, if voters reject Measure ER, Council should revisit the discussion. However, if voters approve Measure ER, Council may need Measure PD as a tool for potential litigation to stop implementation of the tax in Palmdale.
3 Mayor Pro Tem Bishop spoke about his opposition to Measure AV in 2020. He further discussed Measure PD in 2024 and spoke about protecting our local tax dollars.
Councilmember Bettencourt discussed a meeting that her and Councilmember Loa had with HDL regarding the possible tax benefits for storefront cannabis. She also mentioned that her and Councilmember Alarcón have repeatedly demanded accountability from AV Edge for city funds that were provided.
Councilmember Alarcón asked for a second to bring back the motion for discussion.
Motion: Bring the motion back to the next meeting for further discussion.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Laura Bettencourt.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
City Manager Mendez requested that 7.9, 7.10, and 9.3 be brought back to a future meeting.
6) HOUSING AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR
6.1) Approve the minutes from the previous meeting.
Motion: Approve the Housing Authority Consent Calendar.
Moved by Christina Fraga-Saenz, seconded by Dianne Betts.
Vote: Motion carried (7-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón, Christina Fraga-Saenz, Dianne Betts.
7) CONSENT CALENDAR
The following items were pulled by the Council for discussion: Items 7.6, 7.7, and
7.17. 7.1) Waive full reading of the Resolution(s) and/or Ordinance(s) to be considered and voted on at this meeting. (This allows for reading the title only in lieu of reciting the entire text).
7.2) Receive and file the monthly and quarterly investment activity reports for March 2026.
7.3) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -026, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale designating by title and name those officials who are authorized to sign checks and warrants, and repealing Resolution No. CC 2025-045; and adopt Resolution No. SA 2026 -003, a Resolution of the Successor Agency to the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Palmdale, designating by title and name those officials who are authorized to sign checks and warrants, and repealing Resolution No. SA 2025-002.
7.4) Approve Agreement with TK Elevator Corporation for elevator modernization services for a total not to exceed amount of $162,435 for a term of one year.
4 7.5) Approve Construction Agreement with CEM Construction Corporation for PN 796, 45th Street East Sewer, Storm Drain, and Street Improvement Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $10,995,022 for a term of 251 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
7.6) Approve Agreement with Willdan Engineering for Construction Management and Observation Services for PN 796, 45th Street East Sewer, Storm Drain, and Street Improvement Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $877,190 for a term of 251 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
Director Torres presented the staff report.
Councilmember Alarcón spoke about the pattern of awarding contracts to this specific contractor. Director Torres answered questions regarding the contract.
There was further discussion among Council regarding the qualifications of the contractor, urgency of approving the agreement, continuing the item, and percentage of contracts with this specific vendor.
City Manager Mendez spoke about the item being continued.
Mayor Ohlsen made a motion to approve the item, and Mayor Pro Tem Bishop seconded the motion.
Councilmember Loa made a substitute motion to continue this item to the June 2, 2026 meeting.
Motion: Continue this item to the June 2, 2026 meeting.
Moved by Richard J. Loa, seconded by Andrea Alarcón.
Vote: Motion carried (3-1)
Yes: Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
No: Eric Ohlsen.
Abstain: Austin Bishop.
7.7) Approve Construction Agreement with RG General Engineering, Inc., for PN 839, McAdam Park Improvement Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $8,048,897 for a term of 250 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
Director Torres presented the staff report.
Councilmember Alarcón spoke in support of the of the renovations at McAdam Park and discussed the Community Workforce Agreement requirement.
Motion: Approve Construction Agreement with RG General Engineering, Inc., for PN 839, McAdam Park Improvement Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $8,048,897 for a term of 250 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Richard J. Loa.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea
5 Alarcón.
7.8) Approve Construction Agreement with Coast Construction Group for PN 854, Palmdale Playhouse ADA Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $264,373.80 for a term of 50 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
7.9) Approve Agreement with Paragon Partners Consultants, Inc., for Right-of-Way Engineering Services, for PN 914, Rancho Vista Blvd. Grade Separation Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $691,006 for a term of two years from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
This item was pulled to bring at a future date.
7.10) Approve Construction Agreement with Vance Corporation for PN 917A, Avenue R Phase I from 25th Street East to Tackstem Avenue, for a total not to exceed amount of $12,777,831.62 for a term of 120 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
This item was pulled to bring at a future date.
7.11) Approve Agreement with Z&K Consultants for Construction Management and Observation Services for PN 917A, Avenue R from 25th Street East to Tackstem Avenue Project, for a total not to exceed amount of $559,257.60 for a term of 365 calendar days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
7.12) Approve Project Authorization Agreement with NBS Government Finance Group for Annual Assessment and Special District Levy Administration Services for a total not to exceed amount of $531,450 for a term of thirty - eight (38) months.
7.13) Approve Construction Agreement with Calmex Engineering, Inc., for PN 869- A, Arterial Road Rehabilitation Project at Palmdale Blvd. for a total not to exceed amount of $4,581,216 for a term of 60 working days from the date of the Notice to Proceed.
7.14) Approve Requisition with Plumber’s Depot, Inc., for a GapVax Combination Truck for a total not to exceed amount of $932,482; and approve Requisition with National Auto Fleet for a Ford F -600 Dump Truck for a total not to exceed amount of $133,358.
7.15) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -019, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale, adopting a list of projects for Fiscal Year 2026-27 funded by Senate Bill 1: The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017.
7.16) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -020, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale, approving the application for local streets and roads funds authorized under Article 8 of the Transportation Development Act.
7.17) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -021, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale, California, calling for the holding of a General Municipal
6 Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the election of certain officers as required by the provisions of the City of Palmdale Charter; Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -022, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale, California, requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles to consolidate a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, with the Statewide General Election to be held on the same date pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code; and, Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -024, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale, California, adopting regulations for Candidates for Elective Office pertaining to Candidate Statements submitted to the voters at the General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Councilmember Loa asked the City Attorney if the Supreme Court case, Louisiana v. Callais would affect California. City Attorney Severino responded.
Mayor Ohlsen suggested moving forward with adopting the item.
Councilmember Loa made a motion to continue the item to the June 2, 2026 meeting. Councilmember Loa's motion died for lack of a second.
Councilmember Bettencourt requested that City Attorney Severino research whether the Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais would allow the City of Palmdale to return to a directly elected mayor. Mayor Ohlsen suggested obtaining a legal analysis. There was further discussion regarding a directly elected mayor.
Motion: Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026-021, CC 2026-022, CC 2026-024 Moved by Eric Ohlsen, seconded by Austin Bishop.
Vote: Motion carried (4-1)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
No: Richard J. Loa.
7.18) Approve the minutes from the previous meeting.
Motion: Approve the Consent Calendar except for 7.6, 7.7, and 7.17.
Moved by Austin Bishop, seconded by Richard J. Loa.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
8) PUBLIC HEARING
8.1) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -027, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale, approving the Fiscal Year 2026-27 Annual Action Plan for use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Entitlement Funds.
City Clerk Scott read the title of the resolution.
Interim Housing Manager LeNoue provided details during her PowerPoint presentation.
7 Councilmember Loa asked about the number of units for the Linc Housing project, and Interim Housing Manager LeNoue responded that it would include 73 units.
Councilmember Alarcón, on behalf of herself and Councilmember Bettencourt, asked a question and stated that they were both advocates for a domestic violence or emergency transitional housing in Palmdale. She suggested setting aside future Affordable Housing funds specifically for domestic violence housing.
Councilmember Bettencourt asked whether the American Dream Housing Counseling Agency would be located in Palmdale and staffed by local employees. Interim Housing Manager LeNoue stated that the office would be located in Lancaster, but services would be provided in Palmdale.
Councilmember Bettencourt suggested that the office be located in Palmdale.
The following individuals provided public input: Kevin Dillard of American Dream Housing Counseling Agency confirmed that an office will be opened in Palmdale. Mark Maldonado spoke in support of domestic violence housing. Ms.
Moran discussed her program, “Let It Out,” as well as domestic violence and drug addiction. Michelley asked about funds allocated to parks vs housing.
Roger Soderstedt spoke in support of domestic violence housing.
Mayor Ohlsen closed the public comments.
There was discussion among Councilmember Alarcón and Interim Housing Manager LeNoue regarding identifying funds for a domestic violence housing.
Interim Housing Manager LeNoue stated the motion should be to adopt the annual action plan as amended.
Motion: Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026-027 and approve staff recommendation with the amendment of future affordable housing amount of $226,837.35 be designated towards the development of domestic violence housing.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Laura Bettencourt.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
Mayor Ohlsen called for a recess at 7:11 pm - 7:19 pm.
8.2) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -025, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving MOD 26 -0010 amending a previously approved density bonus agreement 25 -0003 (A -9355), to facilitate the construction of 272-Unit multi -family residential development on two vacant parcels totaling approximately 9.8 acres located at the northwest corner of East Avenue Q and 25th Street East, and authorize the City Manager or his designee to exercise the option to amend the agreement as necessary, including minimal and /or non substantive changes (APNS: 3022-012-036 and -037).
Mayor Ohlsen opened the Public Hearing.
8 City Clerk Scott read the title of the resolution.
Interim Deputy Director Magana presented the staff report and spoke about the concessions provided to the applicant.
There was Council, applicant, and staff discussion regarding the project and the concessions.
Mayor Ohlsen called for public comments.
Public Comments: None.
Mayor Ohlsen closed the public hearing.
Motion: Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026-025, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving MOD 26 -0010 amending a previously approved density bonus agreement 25 -0003 (A-9355), to facilitate the construction of a 272-unit multi -family residential development on two vacant parcels totaling approximately 9.8 acres located at the northwest corner of East Avenue Q and 25th Street East
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Richard J. Loa.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
8.3) Adopt Ordinance No. 1667, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment 26 -0002 to modify requirements related to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units to ensure compliance with state law and find the amendment is exempt from environmental review.
Mayor Ohlsen opened the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Scott read the title of the ordinance.
Interim Deputy Director Magana presented the staff report.
Mayor Ohlsen called for public comments.
Public Comments: None.
Mayor Ohlsen closed the public comments.
A unanimous motion was approved to introduce Ordinance No. 1667.
Motion: Adopt Ordinance No. 1667, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving Zoning Ordinance Amendment 26 -0002 to modify requirements related to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units to ensure compliance with state law and find the amendment is exempt from environmental review.
Moved by Laura Bettencourt, seconded by Austin Bishop.
9 Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
8.4) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -023, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving the issuance of tax-exempt and/or taxable revenue obligations by the California Enterprise Development Authority (CEDA) in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $2,300,000 for the purpose of financing, refinancing and/or reimbursing the cost of acquisition, construction, installation, furnishing and equipping of healthcare facilities for the benefit of Bartz-Altadonna Community Health Center and/or a related successor entity.
City Clerk Scott read the title of the resolution.
Deputy City Manager Samson presented that staff report.
Councilmember Bettencourt asked whether the City had any funding obligation related to this item, and Deputy City Manager Samson confirmed that the City has no funding obligations.
Mayor Ohlsen called for public comments.
Public Comments: None.
Mayor Ohlsen closed the public hearing.
Motion: Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026-023, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving the issuance of tax -exempt and/or taxable revenue obligations by the California Enterprise Development Authority (CEDA) in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $2,300,000 for the purpose of financing, refinancing and/or reimbursing the cost of acquisition, construction, installation, furnishing and equipping of healthcare facilities for the benefit of Bartz-Altadonna Community Health Center and/or a related successor entity.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Laura Bettencourt.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
9) NEW BUSINESS CC/SA - Now is the time for public participation.
9.1) Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -016, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving the Five-Year Public Art Work Plan for projects in the City of Palmdale in accordance with Chapter 15.01 of the Palmdale Municipal Code.
City Clerk Scott read the title of the Resolution.
Public Art Program Manager Davis provided a PowerPoint presentation on completed projects, pending art installations, and proposed projects.
Council spoke in support of the projects.
10 Mayor Ohlsen called for public comments.
Public Art Coordinator Davis acknowledged that five emails were received in support of the Public Art Program.
The following individuals provided public comments: Patty of the Palmdale Woman's Club, Chelsea Williams, and Josh Jimenez spoke in support of the program. Eugene Hernandez spoke about honoring Chicano Heritage through public art.
Motion: Adopt Resolution No. CC 2026 -016, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palmdale approving the Five-Year Public Art Work Plan for projects in the City of Palmdale in accordance with Chapter 15.01 of the Palmdale Municipal Code.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Laura Bettencourt.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
9.2) Pavement Management Plan (PMP).
Deputy Director Livingston provided a PowerPoint presentation on the Pavement Management Program.
There was Council and staff discussion regarding cost of paving the roads and trucks damaging the roads. Council spoke in support of the program.
The following individuals provided public comments: Mark Maldonado spoke about the damage that potholes cause to vehicles and in support of the program, Colleen expressed concerns about a speed bump on 40th Street at the railroad crossing, and an unnamed woman spoke regarding cleaning the area around 47th Street East at Four Points.
Motion: Approve the presentation of the Pavement Management Plan.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Austin Bishop.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
9.3) Receive and file the City of Palmdale’s 2026 -31 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan.
This item was pulled to bring at a future date.
9.4) Adopt Resolution No. SA 2026 -004, a Resolution of the Successor Agency to the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Palmdale authorizing the issuance and sale of tax allocation bonds to refund obligations of the former Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Palmdale, and approving related documents and actions.
City Clerk Scott read the title of the resolution.
11 Deputy City Manager Samson presented the staff report.
Councilmember Loa asked how the City saves money through refinancing bonds, and Deputy City Manager Samson explained that, by refunding the bonds, the City is able to take advantage of lower interest rates.
Motion: Adopt Resolution No. SA 2026 -004, a Resolution of the Successor Agency to the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Palmdale authorizing the issuance and sale of tax allocation bonds to refund obligations of the former Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Palmdale, and approving related documents and actions.
Moved by Richard J. Loa, seconded by Laura Bettencourt.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
10) JOINT NEW BUSINESS CC/SA/HA/IDA/PAA/PFA - Now is the time for public participation.
10.1) Presentation of the City of Palmdale Draft Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27.
City Manager Mendez announced that this was the first reading of the budget and provided an opportunity for Council feedback.
Deputy City Manager Samson provided a PowerPoint presentation on the FY 2026-27 budget.
Councilmember Alarcón asked questions regarding a portion of the Measure AV budget, specifically Economic Development. She suggested that the City not exercise the option to extend the AV Edge contract and reconsider some of the Auto Mall funding. She also requested information regarding the increase in the City Attorney budget and the underlying schedules for contract services, operating expenses, and other expenditures.
Councilmember Bettencourt and Mayor Pro Tem Bishop spoke in support of the balanced budget.
The following individual provided public input: Roger Soderstedt inquired about whom he should contact regarding the K-rails at Arnie Quinones Park.
Mayor Ohlsen closed the public comments.
City Manager Mendez announced that public outreach had been conducted to gather input on the budget.
11) CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
City Manager Salvador provided an update on several upcoming events, including the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive led by local postal workers on May 9 at the post office annex located at 38917 20th Street East; the AV Children’s Choir presentation of “Americana: Singing Stories of America” on May 16 at the Palmdale Playhouse; A
12 Tribute to the King: Scott Bruce as Elvis on May 23 at the Palmdale Playhouse; the opening day of the season for DryTown Water Park on May 23; West Coast Classical presents Sounds 2 Beautiful on May 30 at the Palmdale Playhouse; West Coast Classical presents Symphony of Strings on May 31 at the Palmdale Playhouse; and the High Desert Beer and Wine Festival on June 20 at the Amphitheater.
City Manager Salvador also announced that Council is accepting applications for the Mobile Home Rental Review Board, the Board of Library Trustees, and the Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District (EIFD) Public Financing Authority. In addition, the Farmers Market is held Fridays at Sam Yellen Park.
12) COUNCIL REPORTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REQUESTS FOR FUTURE
AGENDA ITEMS
Councilmember Loa requested a future agenda item for the June meeting on the financing program and agreements that were developed by the sub -committee and the Auto Mall.
City Attorney Severino asked for clarification on the motion whether it should go on as an action item to the proposed loan agreement or a discussion item to discuss appropriate options to address. Councilmember Loa proposed an action item.
Motion: Add a future action agenda item for the June meeting related to the financing program and agreements developed out of the meetings with the sub-committee and the auto mall.
Moved by Richard J. Loa, seconded by Eric Ohlsen.
Vote: Motion carried (3-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Richard J. Loa, Andrea Alarcón.
Councilmember Bettencourt requested a future agenda item regarding the City logo and rebranding.
Mayor Pro Tem Bishop discussed proposed County Measure ER. He requested a press release or proclamation opposing the measure. He discussed the possibility of Measure ER overriding the intent of Measure PD and asked for Council consensus on opposing Measure ER. There was further discussion among the Council about adopting a resolution at a Special Meeting.
Motion: Bring back a special meeting to discuss Measure ER and adopt a resolution to oppose the measure.
Moved by Eric Ohlsen, seconded by Andrea Alarcón.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
Councilmember Alarcón requested a presentation regarding the status of the Multi - Agency Regional Resilience Center (MARRC) and its protocols for use. She also requested a list of City -sponsored events and the process for obtaining sponsorship.
In addition, she requested an agenda item to determine whether or not an ad hoc committee should be formed to review the special events and cultural events policies.
13 Motion: Request to add two future agenda items:
1) Presentation to provide the status of the Multi-Agency Regional Resilience Center (MARRC) and its protocols for use; and
2) Discussion item on whether an ad hoc committee should be created to review the special events and cultural events policies.
Moved by Andrea Alarcón, seconded by Eric Ohlsen.
Vote: Motion carried (5-0)
Yes: Eric Ohlsen, Austin Bishop, Richard J. Loa, Laura Bettencourt, Andrea Alarcón.
Councilmember Alarcón announced an eviction protection event would be held on May 12 in Poncitlan Square.
Councilmember Bettencourt announced the District 3 Neighborhood Watch event on May 12 at Oasis Park
13) CLOSED SESSION
PRESENTATION BY CITY ATTORNEY
Public Comments: None.
City Attorney Severino confirmed the items would be heard as listed and recommended the recusal of Councilmember Loa and Councilmember Alarcón from one of the items on 13.3.
13.1) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION Concerning CV Communities, LLC v. Antelope Valley -East Kern Water Agency, et al.
Los Angeles Superior Court 20STCV10953
This closed session is being held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
13.2) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION Ricky Thorstensen v. City of Palmdale, et al.
Los Angeles Superior Court 22STCV29463
This closed session is being held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1).
13.3) CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL- ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Initiation of litigation: (3 cases)
This closed session is being held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 54956.9, paragraph (4) of subdivision (d).
13.4) CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Agency designated representatives: Salvador Mendez, City Manager, and Linda Daube, Special Counsel, Janelle Samson, Deputy City Manager, and Yvette Barrios, Director of Human Resources
Employee organization: Teamsters Local 986
This closed session is being held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 54957.6.
14 13.5) PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT
Title: City Attorney Recruitment
This closed session is being held pursuant to the authority of California Government Code Section 54957.
14) ANNOUNCEMENT BY CITY ATTORNEY
Closed Session was held from 9:30 pm - 11:45 pm.
City Attorney Severino announced the following:
13.1 – There was no reportable action.
13.2 – There was no reportable action.
13.3 – There was no reportable action.
13.4 - There was no reportable action.
City Manager Mendez announced the following:
13.5 – There was no reportable action.
15) ADJOURN
Mayor Ohlsen adjourned the meeting at 11:45 pm to June 2, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chamber located at 38300 Sierra Highway, Suite B, Palmdale, California.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 2nd day of June, 2026.
Eric Ohlsen, Mayor
ATTEST:
Rochelle Scott, City Clerk
Eric Ohlsen (Jun 4, 2026 18:09:05 PDT)
Rochelle Scott (Jun 8, 2026 09:30:12 PDT)
Rochelle Scott
Mins 05 05 2026 (2)
Final Audit Report 2026-06-08
Created: 2026-06-05
By: Nidia Valenzuela ([email protected]) Status: Signed
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