Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Palmdale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues with high priority
City Attorney Recruitment
The council met in closed session on the search for a new City Attorney, following the departure of the previous officeholder.
City Attorney Recruitment and Evaluation
The council is working on hiring a new City Attorney, the city's top legal advisor. That hire shapes how the city handles contracts, lawsuits, and development deals for years. Details are confidential during the process.
Chimbole Center/Library Renovation Project Phase 1
The fire-damaged Chimbole Center, shuttered since December 2022, is finally getting rebuilt — with a $30.7M contract adding 4,000 square feet and connecting to the library. Union workers packed the chambers to back it; some residents slammed the cost and lack of public input.
Affordable housing at Avenue Q and 4th Street East
A 272-unit apartment complex is moving forward on 9.8 vacant acres in northeast Palmdale after the council amended its density bonus agreement. That means hundreds of new homes — and new residents — on a currently empty site.
Tripepi Smith communications contract expansion
The City is spending $2.6 million more on its outside PR firm, bringing the five-year total to $5.55 million — up from roughly $1 million spent last year. Two councilmembers voted no, questioning whether the value justifies the cost.
Measure AV Draft Budget FY 2026-27
Palmdale's voter-approved 0.75% sales tax is expected to bring in about $24.3 million next fiscal year. The spending plan puts $13.1 million toward public safety (mostly the sheriff contract), funds park lighting and the Oasis Park basin upgrade, community events, senior and SAVES programs, and $1.5 million for land acquisition. The oversight committee endorsed it; the City Council makes the final decision.
Opposition to Measure ER countywide sales tax
The council will hold a special meeting to adopt a resolution opposing the county's Measure ER, which members fear could override Measure PD and threaten city tax revenue.