Town of Yucca Valley
Town Council Meeting Minutes
August 18, 2026
Call to Order
Mayor Abel called the meeting to order at 5:01 PM.
Roll Call
Present: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
Absent:
Pledge of Allegiance
Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Denison.
Invocation
Invocation led by Mayor Pro Tem Schooler.
Presentations, Introductions, Recognitions
1. Recognition of the Tri-Valley Little League Senior Division Softball All-Stars – 2026 Southern California State Champions
Mayor and Council presented a Certificate of Recognition to the Tri-Valley Little League Senior Division Softball All-Star Team.
Lindsey Jones Tri-Valley Little League President thanked the community, coaches, and the girls for their historic season.
2. Recognition of JT Sportsman’s Club for Donation to the Town of Yucca Valley Animal Shelter
Mayor and Council recognized the JT Sportsman’s Club for its donation to the Town of Yucca Valley Animal Shelter.
Jennifer Cornel, Secretary of the JT Sportsman’s Club, spoke about the Club’s Sunday Bingo program, held from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with proceeds benefiting local organizations.
Councilmember Lombardo and Councilmember Denison expressed appreciation for the Club’s continued support of the community and its involvement in local events and charitable efforts.
Approval of Agenda
3. Agenda Approval
Mayor Abel opened public comments. With no members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
Motion:
Approve the Agenda as prepared.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Mayor Pro Tem Jim Schooler
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo Consent Agenda
Mayor Abel opened public comments. With no members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
4. Minutes
Motion:
Approve the meeting minutes of Tuesday, July 21, 2026 as presented.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
5. Amendment 1 to NRO Engineering 1 July 2024 Agreement for Town Engineer & Engineering Plan Check Services
Motion:
Approve Amendment No. 1 to the July 1, 2024 Agreement with NRO Engineering for Town Engineer and Engineering Plan Check Services, extending the term of the Agreement for two (2) years, from July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028; ratify the continuation of services provided under the Agreement effective July 1, 2026; continue the designation of Noel Owsley as Town Engineer; and authorize the Town Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 on behalf of the Town.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
6. AB1234 Reporting Requirements
Motion:
Receive and file the AB1234 Reporting Requirement Schedule for the month of July 2026.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
7. Ratification of Warrant Registers
Motion:
Ratify the Payroll Registers totaling $349,241.81 dated July 02, 2026, $346,531.53 dated July 17, 2026, and $292,630.74 dated July 31, 2026. Ratify the Warrant Register totaling $4,284,649.95 for the period of July 01, 2026, through July 31, 2026.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
8. Authorization to Purchase Replacement Fleet Vehicle/Equipment Motion:
1. Waive the competitive bidding requirements set forth in Section 3.12.050 of the Town Code pursuant to Section 3.12.060(G), finding that compliance with the competitive bidding procedures would be inefficient, impractical, and unnecessary, and authorizes the Town Manager, or designee, to execute purchase agreements for the following vehicles and equipment:
• 2026 Chevrolet Silverado Truck with Utility Body – Not to Exceed $90,000.00
• 2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty – Not to Exceed $75,000.00 • 2026 Ford E-Transit 350 Van – Not to Exceed $65,000.00 • 2026 TR 575 Heated Asphalt Distributor – Not to Exceed $40,000.00 • 2026 L2502HST Kubota Tractor — Not to Exceed $30,000.00
2. If those vehicles are unavailable, authorize the purchase from any dealer who can provide the vehicle to meet the Town's timing needs, and direct staff to return to the Town Council with a final action report following the purchase.
3. Declare the following vehicles and equipment as surplus and authorizes the Town Manager, or designee, to dispose of the surplus assets through a public auction, competitive bidding, consignment, or dismantling service, whichever method is determined to be in the Town's best interest:
• Unit #7 – 2004 Ford F-250 Crew Cab 4x4
• Unit #15 – 2001 Chevrolet 1-Ton Truck with Utility Body • Unit #94 – 2006 Ford E-350 Super Duty Van
• Unit #84 – 2004 Stepp Tack Distributor (Tack Rig)
• Unit #65 - 1996 Kubota L2350DT Tractor
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
9. Arbitrage Rebate Calculation for the 2022 Lease Agreement Motion:
Receive and file the Arbitrage Rebate Calculation prepared by Willdan Financial Services for the Town’s Lease Agreement dated February 1, 2022; and authorize the Finance Manager, or designee, to execute and file IRS Form 8038-T, submit the required arbitrage rebate payment, and complete any related administrative actions necessary to maintain compliance with federal tax requirements.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
10. Rejection of Claim
Motion:
Reject one Claim filed against the Town of Yucca Valley submitted on August 3, 2026, by Bauman Law, APLC on behalf of Irma Grantham.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
11. Administrative Policy Update - AED Policy
Motion:
Review and approve the new policy.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
12. Resolution No. 26-XX: Amending Measure I Five-Year Capital Improvement Program, 2025/2026 to 2029/2030, Measure I Expenditure Strategy Motion:
Adopt Resolution No. 26-30 amending the Measure I Five-Year Capital Improvement Program and Expenditure Strategy for Fiscal Years 2025/2026 to 2029/2030.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
13. Hi-Desert Nature Museum Re-Plumbing Project — Town
Motion:
Deem Haus ADU LLC non-responsive as a result of its failure to return the signed construction agreement and to respond to repeated correspondence and telephone communications; Rescind the prior award of construction contract with Haus ADU LLC., in the amount of $36,320.00 for the Hi-Desert Nature Museum Replumbing Project; Amend the FY2026-2027 Measure Y Special Revenue Fund 801 Budget to appropriate $15,000.00 of unassigned reserve funds to accommodate the revised project costs for a total project budget of $75,000.00, as identified in Exhibit A; Award construction contract to the next lowest responsive and responsible bidder, Preferred General Services, in the amount of $56,452.33 for the Hi-Desert Nature Museum Replumbing Project; Authorize construction, construction contingencies, and inspection costs in the total amount of $15,000.00; and Authorize the Mayor, Town Manager, and Town Attorney to execute the agreement, and authorizes the Town Manager or designee to expend contingency funds, if necessary, for project completion.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
14. Revised Resolutions for the Annual Street & Drainage and Landscape & Lighting Assessment Districts, Ordering the Levy and Collection of Assessments for Fiscal Year 2026-2027
Motion:
Adopt the revised Resolutions 26-27, 26-28, and 26-29, approving and confirming the assessment diagrams and confirming the assessments as set forth in the Engineer’s reports for Landscaping & Lighting Maintenance Districts and Street & Drainage Maintenance Districts within the existing Districts for the 2026-2027 tax year and authorize the levy of assessment upon real property as identified in the Engineer’s Reports.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo
15. Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Yucca Valley and the San Bernardino County Fire District
Motion:
Approve the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Yucca Valley and the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District providing shared use of designated areas at the existing Fire Station 41 site located at 57201 29 Palms Highway in Yucca Valley.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Rick Denison
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo Department Reports
16. Community Engagement and Homeless Services Program Update Community Engagement and Homeless Services Coordinator Nicholson presented an update on the Town’s homeless services and community engagement programs.
Mayor Abel opened public comments.
A resident inquired about opportunities to volunteer. Melodie Chambers discussed donations of jackets and clothing to assist unhoused residents.
With no other members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
The Mayor requested that information regarding donation opportunities and a link to donate be added to the Town’s website.
Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the report and the organization of the programs, including recognition of the McKinney-Vento program and the number of children served. The Mayor requested additional information regarding the protocols used to identify and assist individuals experiencing homelessness.
Community Engagement and Homeless Services Coordinator Nicholson discussed the process for identifying encampments, determining needed services, and coordinating with Quality of Life staff to determine appropriate follow-up.
The Mayor thanked the Town Manager for bringing the information forward and emphasized the importance of providing compassionate services, resources, and support to local residents experiencing homelessness.
Council requested that benchmarks be developed to help measure program success, including outcomes such as individuals rehoused and those connected with medical services.
The Town Council received and filed the report. No motion was made.
17. Off-Highway Vehicle Public Safety Update
Town Manager Yakimow introduced Sergeant Daniel Berumen, who introduced Deputy Alex Camacho. Deputy Camacho provided an update on OHV enforcement efforts, including proactive patrols, citations, arrests, and vehicle tows throughout the Morongo Basin.
Mayor Abel opened public comments.
Members of the public Alison Bonanzi, Jim Foote, Sharon Motley, Debbie Smith, Steve Amador, and Cheryl Novak expressed concerns regarding OHV activity, speeding, illegal riding, fireworks, and potential fire hazards near residential areas. Speakers also discussed the need for increased enforcement, education, parent accountability, and coordination with property owners and other agencies.
With no other members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
Councilmembers thanked Deputy Camacho and the Sheriff’s Department for their efforts and discussed enforcement strategies, community education, school outreach, and additional resources.
The Town Council received and filed the report. No motion was made.
18. Fall/Winter 2026-27 Planned Programs - Community Services Dept Community Services Manager Earnest introduced staff who presented highlights of the Fall/Winter 2026-27 programs and activities.
Museum Supervisor Hildebrand presented upcoming exhibits and events; Special Events Coordinator Tommie Jones presented special events; Sports and Wellness Manager Kusmieruk presented sports and wellness activities; Administrative Assistant Cuna presented enrichment classes; and Recreation Coordinator McCullough presented senior programs and events.
Mayor Abel opened public comments. With no members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
Councilmember Schooler expressed appreciation for the report and the Community Services staff.
Council discussed a constituent inquiry regarding sculptures by Frank Barsky and the possibility of displaying or placing the artwork on loan. Staff noted that size and weight would be factors and that the Public Art Program may also be an option. Staff also discussed incorporating local residents into upcoming programs.
The Town Council received and filed the report. No motion was made.
19. November 2026 General Municipal Election – Certification of Nominees and Election Options
Town Clerk Dudra presented the item regarding certification of nominees and election options for the November 2026 General Municipal Election, noting that the recommended option would save the Town approximately $30,000.
Mayor Abel opened public comments.
Erin Gatlin spoke in opposition to the proposed resolution, expressing concerns regarding voter participation, write-in candidates, and the right to vote.
Melody Chambers spoke in support of not holding the election, citing the potential $30,000 cost savings to the community.
A resident spoke regarding voting rights and the ability of voters to participate through write-in candidates.
With no other members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
The Mayor and Council discussed voter participation, write-in candidates, district elections, and the estimated $30,000 cost savings. Council expressed support for the recommended option, noting the lack of a contested race in the districts and the challenges of district-based elections in a small community following State requirements.
Motion:
Adopt Resolution 26-26, canceling the General Municipal Election for the Town of Yucca Valley for Town Council Districts 1 and 3, and providing for the appointment of the sole nominees to the offices of Town Council Member for Jim Schooler, District 1 and Merl Abel, District 3, at the General Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Result: Passed (Yes 5, No 0, Abstained 0)
Mover: Council Member Jeff Drozd
Seconder: Council Member Robert Lombardo
Ayes: Merl Abel, Jeff Drozd, Rick Denison, Jim Schooler, Robert Lombardo Future Agenda Items
Councilmember Lombardo requested information regarding the process, requirements, and considerations for potentially transitioning from district-based elections to at-large elections.
Councilmember Lombardo also requested that staff review the Town’s current cannabis regulations, including the potential for allowing cannabis delivery of both medical and nonmedical products. Discussion included potential economic and sales tax impacts, competition from surrounding jurisdictions, local employment opportunities, and the timing of any potential regulatory changes.
The Mayor requested that staff prioritize the requested items for future consideration.
Public Comments
Mayor Abel opened public comments.
Robert Hark, Yucca Valley, requested that staff consider preparing the softball field on Wednesday evenings in addition to the existing Tuesday and Thursday preparation schedule and offered to volunteer.
Melodie Chambers, Yucca Valley, spoke regarding space rent increases at Gates of Spain and expressed concerns about the impact of the increases on residents. She requested consideration of rent control measures for mobile home parks.
Krista Wargo spoke regarding illegal fireworks, wildfire concerns, property insurance rates, enforcement, and public education. She requested information regarding citations and fines related to illegal fireworks.
Caroline Haven, Morongo Valley, spoke regarding potential future discussion of rodeo activities and requested consideration of prohibiting certain equipment and practices used in rodeo events.
Cheryl Contopolis spoke regarding the Town’s Animal Shelter and encouraged increased publicity and community awareness of the shelter. She thanked the Council and staff for their efforts.
Brenda Calvillo spoke regarding equipment used in rodeo events and requested that the Town research potential regulations or prohibitions.
Corbett Brattin, Cathedral City, read a letter from Buggy Larson regarding the treatment of animals in rodeo events and expressed concerns regarding animal welfare.
Michelle Walsh, Palm Springs, spoke regarding a rodeo event involving mutton busting and expressed concerns regarding safety and potential liability.
The Mayor thanked the speakers for their comments and participation.
With no other members of the public wishing to speak, public comments were closed.
Staff Reports and Comments
Sergeant Berumen thanked the Mayor and Jessica Rice for their assistance with grant applications on behalf of the Town and noted the recent purchase of an OHV motorcycle. He also provided an update on the “Shop with a Cop” event held August 1, where selected children received approximately $10,000 in back-to-school supplies. He thanked the Town and Walmart for their support and noted that another event is planned for December.
Town Manager Yakimow stated that he would be reaching out regarding scheduling the upcoming ribbon cutting for the Community Center Pickleball Courts.
Town Manager Yakimow provided an update on the legislative session and recent amendments affecting existing single-family residences and the Town’s delegated authority. He thanked Assemblymember Wallis and Senator Ochoa Bogh for their efforts and noted that the Town is submitting comments regarding the legislation and monitoring potential urgency legislation expected to be considered in the coming weeks.
Mayor and Council Member Reports and Comments
Councilmember Denison expressed appreciation for continued efforts related to the Western Joshua Tree and thanked members of the public for sharing their concerns. He congratulated the Tri-Valley Little League team and thanked the JT Sportsman’s Club for its donation to the Animal Shelter.
Councilmember Drozd commented on the variety of presentations and public comments and thanked residents for participating.
Councilmember Lombardo congratulated and thanked the local softball team and expressed appreciation for community participation. He thanked the Sheriff’s Department for its OHV enforcement efforts and emphasized the importance of education. He also encouraged support for the Animal Shelter and reminded residents that school is back in session.
Mayor Pro Tem Schooler provided an update from the Animal Shelter Subcommittee meeting, noting positive shelter statistics, staff training, volunteer efforts, and continued community partnerships. She announced the next Subcommittee meeting for September 17 and congratulated the softball team. She also noted the upcoming December Shop with a Cop event.
Councilmember Drozd thanked Susan and Cheryl for their volunteer efforts.
The Mayor encouraged residents to participate in the Town’s volunteer programs and spoke regarding services for unhoused residents and the importance of protecting seniors. The Mayor thanked the Sheriff’s Department for its service and noted the community’s appreciation for contract law enforcement services.
Announcements
The next regular meeting of the Yucca Valley Town Council will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM in the Yucca Valley Community Center Yucca Room.
Mayor Abel adjourned the regular meeting to closed session at 08:07 PM Respectfully Submitted,
Brooke Dudra
Town Clerk