The Twentynine Palms City Council got an earful last night, primarily from residents concerned about redistricting plans. Reporter Heather Clisby explains…
After a presentation of new street banners designed by mostly local artists, Jennifer Cusak, government relations manager for Southern California Edison, gave an update on the utility’s reliability. Cusak discussed wildfire mitigation, as well as outage origins, such as vegetation, animals, and Mylar balloons, which cause over 1,000 outages annually.
The council then held a public hearing regarding the state-mandated redistricting process. City Attorney Patrick Munoz offered back story on the issue. Representing the National Demographics Corporation, Todd Tatum presented his firm’s findings from the federal 2020 census results. Tatum stressed that next steps over the next few months require the public’s help in “defining neighborhoods” via an online mapping program. “Everyone should participate,” said Tatum.
The public hearing featured nine residents speaking (or having statements read in their absence) critically of the council for lack of outreach and transparency on the matter. Resident Cindy Bernard urged the council to form an advisory committee that should be residents only. Many of the speakers were from the Indian Cove neighborhood that is divided by District 1 and District 2. City Manager Frank Luckino stated that major public outreach for the issue actually begins now with the next public hearing for the redistricting issue scheduled for February 8, 2022.
Some comments put councilmembers on the defensive as one speaker suggested that districts were drawn to conform to councilmembers residences, even inferring that “kickbacks” may be involved. Mayor Daniel Mintz bristled at the accusation noting the dedication and time all members give for a total monthly payment of $480. Councilmember Karmalette O’Gilvie stated firmly: “Whatever district I represent, I work for all the citizens of Twentynine Palms.”
The next public hearing, whether or not to approve the 1.5 percent levy assessment to help fund the Tourism Business Improvement District, was less contentious and swiftly approved.
The council then more faced heat on the matter of using eminent domain to take over three properties (and condemning at least one building) to be transformed into a parking lot for visitors of Project Phoenix. A resident of one of buildings addressed the council pleading with them to “build around it” noting that housing is already in short supply, particularly for seniors. Then, the co-owner of the property in question, Chayo Briggs, confronted the council with complaints regarding miscommunication and “harassment” noting that he had secured a lawyer.
Munoz informed the elderly resident that the city offered a “relocation program” to address her housing concerns. She replied that she knew of the program which was “not feasible” due to the program disallowing pets and moving her away from the MBTA bus line which she relies upon.
All these issues caused Councilmember Joel Klink to state that he did not feel comfortable voting on the resolution until he’d had more time to personally view the properties in question. His fellow councilmembers agreed and the matter has been delayed. Mayor Mintz also extended an offer to meet in person with Briggs to clear up issues of contention.
The council approved a Building Improvement Loan Program, wherein the city would match the applicant’s investment at a 3-percent interest rate with a 5-year-repayment timeline. The plan aims to help downtown businesses, from Donnell Hill to National Park Drive, then to City Hall on Adobe Road, improve exterior appearances and encourage the use of outdoor spaces. The program offers $350,000 in available funds and will be given on a first-come, first-served basis.
