Palmdale · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Palmdale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City Attorney Recruitment
The council met in closed session on the search for a new City Attorney, following the departure of the previous officeholder.
Update to City Sign Regulations (ZOA 26-0001)
The city wants to overhaul Chapter 17.88 of the municipal code — the rules governing signs — to match the new 2045 General Plan. It covers what signs businesses and property owners can put up, how they're approved, and how violations are enforced. The hearing got bumped to October 8.
Palmdale's role in the 2028 Olympics ("88 for 28")
The Commission was to explore how the Public Art Program can contribute to "88 for 28," the LA County planning effort for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This could mean public art projects tied to Olympic-era cultural programming across the region.
Community feedback on two new public murals
Residents weighed in on themes for a community mural at William J. McAdam Park and a postcard-style mural at the Palmdale Transportation Center. A desert night sky and astronomy theme topped the 42 responses, with natural landmarks like Vasquez Rocks a close favorite for what to depict.
City Attorney Recruitment and Evaluation
The council is working through hiring and evaluating its top legal officer — the person who steers the city through contracts, lawsuits, and council meetings. It's a personnel matter, so the discussion happened behind closed doors. Whoever fills the role shapes the city's legal footing for years.
Chimbole Center/Library Renovation Project Phase 1
The fire-damaged Chimbole Center, shuttered since December 2022, is finally getting rebuilt — with a $30.7M contract adding 4,000 square feet and connecting to the library. Union workers packed the chambers to back it; some residents slammed the cost and lack of public input.
Wireless facility replacement and 10-year extension at 37822 6th Street East
A cell tower disguised as a 65-foot water tower at the city's water park needs a brand-new permit because its original 2014 approval expired in 2024. The upgrade swaps antennas inside the existing structure — no taller tower, no bigger footprint. The decision affects cell coverage in the area and the look of the park.
Mayor Election Reform
Palmdale is weighing a switch to let every voter citywide elect the mayor, instead of the City Council picking one of its own. That would give residents a direct say in who leads the city and reshape local political power.
Opposition to Measure ER countywide sales tax
Measure ER would add half a cent to the sales tax across Los Angeles County, including Palmdale, and the money wouldn't have to come back here proportionally. The council is worried about adding to an already high tax burden on lower-income households and leaving less room for locally controlled funding for roads, public safety, and parks.