The Morongo Valley Community Services District Board of Directors held their regular 6 PM meeting last night at Covington Park’s multipurpose room.
The meeting began with Smith Marion and Co’s audit presentation, followed by the MVCSD Organizational Chart update, both of which the Board approved 4/0. While a “rounding-up” donation program for patrons of local businesses to donate to the CSD was on the agenda, Vice President Lynn Watt stated that by law only non-profits could utilize such a program. Though the Firefighters Auxiliary was discussed as a go-between non-profit. Watts suggested an online widget-based fundraising site instead, and the item was tabled for the next meeting.
Next, the Board discussed and adopted Resolution 2024-02 to oppose Initiative 1935, which limits the ability of voters and local and state governments to raise revenues for government services. Finance Director Johnny Tolbert was particularly vocal against the Initiative, saying, “Long story short, if they pass this, we’re going out of business.” Tolbert added the California Special Districts Association is encouraging all special districts to adopt the Resolution in opposition.
With the CSD’s preliminary budget draft currently at $48,000 over budget, the Board devised to plan a budget workshop on Saturday, April 6th at 10:00 AM. With other factors looming, such as SB525 which will raise the Fire Department’s wages, the Board also voted in favor of a spending freeze for the district once they receive their Type 1 Fire Engine back in service.
