The Yucca Valley Planning Commissioner, who was reappointed at a tense Town Council meeting last week, has resigned, effective yesterday. Michael Hildebrand, who was appointed to the Planning Commission exactly two years ago, submitted his letter of resignation to the Town Clerk Monday, explaining that he was resigning due to his busy job schedule that made it difficult for him to attend meetings and focus on the position’s responsibilities. Last week, newly elected Council Member Bob Leone nominated Curt Duffy to replace Michael Hildebrand on the Planning Commission, but the remaining four council members refused to second his nomination. Council member Dawn Rowe said she could not confirm Duffy for the position since Leone had publicly acknowledged he wanted to appoint Duffy to the Planning Commission before any applications for the position were taken. Council member George Huntington said he was troubled by Duffy’s short period of residence in the Town, only 2 ½ years. The meeting became heated at that point, as Duffy angrily denounced Huntington’s statement, saying there is no requirement for how long a resident must live in the Town before being a member of any Town commission. Applications will be taken for 10 days for Yucca Valley residents who would like to apply for Hildebrand’s seat on the Planning Commission. Applications can be picked up at the Town Hall or on-line.
