The Town Council adopted a resolution to amend the current year and the next fiscal year’s special revenue fund budgets and allocate funds for the Aquatic and Recreation Center Project construction costs. The cost estimates provided by agency architects and contracted service providers include materials, service providers, furniture, and fixtures, everything at the current market value. In addition, the budget consists of the additional solar generation project and the Brehm Park infrastructure improvements. The construction estimate will range from 25 million to 27 million. The recommended funding allocations are provided from four special revenue funds.
Also, at last night’s meeting, the Town Council reviewed the listing of the Western Joshua Tree on the endangered species list. The Department of Fish and Wildlife has yet to make a final decision but has stated through a review of the science that the listing is not warranted. A Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act has been drafted as a budget trailer bill and is in the current legislative session. It is progressing through the state’s budget process. As the legislation goes forward, Staff anticipates the Conservation Act language may be approved at the state level by the summer. The Town’s position is to remain neutral but offer language suggestions to the bill. Staff stated the Town is opposed to the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act unless some of the language is amended and concerns be communicated to the Department of Fish and Wildlife. A press release will be released next week concerning the legislation and the Town’s position.
Lastly, the Town Council reviewed the Staff’s presentation of the Comprehensive Fee Study Report draft and recommended adopting a formal Subsidy Policy. The policy will direct future fee implementations as a guideline for subsidizing service fees.
