Local News

TWENTYNINE PALMS CITY COUNCIL MAKES BUDGET TRANSFERS TO COVER VIRUS LOSSES

Governing from a safe social distance—they sat six feet apart and all wore face masks—the Twentynine Palms City Council gathered last night primarily to discuss the city’s fiscal response to COVID-19. Reporter Heather Clisby was there…

Attendees at the Twentynine Palms City Council meeting are all masked. Heather Clisby photo

The Twentynine Palms City Council met last night in an otherwise empty chamber and discussed the financial realities in light of COVID-19. City Manager Frank Luckino detailed staff recommendations on budget cuts to address the decrease in projected revenue.

Twentynine Palms City Manager Frank Luckino and Council member McArthur Wright wear masks during the council meeting. Heather Clisby photo

Though the city has undesignated reserves of $6 million, the near-standstill of tourism brings a significant revenue shortfall through June. Thus, the council unanimously approved budget transfers from several projects and purchases, namely: Trails Flood Control Plan, Animal Control Quarantine Building, Amboy and Hatch/Sullivan bike paths, El Sol curb and gutter, playground equipment, and the electronic sign.

Captain Luke Niles, Battalion Chief Scott Tuttle and Councilmember Karmolette O’Gilvie attended the meeting remotely. Heather Clisby photo

With the resulting savings of over $860,000, $100,000 will be retained to replace the roof and repair the Animal Control Building as that was deemed necessary. The remaining funds will be divided equally between the COVID-19 Stabilization Fund and Project Phoenix, at $380K each.

Twentynine Palms City Council members Joel Klink and Dan Mintz wear masks during the meeting. Heather Clisby photo

Attending remotely, Supervisor Dawn Rowe gave an update on the drive-through testing for COVID-19 on April 22 at Copper Mountain College. There will be a 48-hour window for residents with symptoms to make appointments. Rowe urged residents to stay updated at the County’s COVID-19 website, sbcovid19.com.

County Supervisor Dawn Rowe attended the Twentynine Palms City Council meeting remotely.

Responding to concerns of Airbnbs and short-term rentals defying orders and renting to visitors, there is now a hotline to report suspicious rental activity: 888-399-8591.

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