Kern County Board of Supervisors 2:00 p.m. meeting for Tuesday, June 16, 2026

The Kern County Board of Supervisors convened on June 16, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. Key discussions included approval of a major renewable energy project by Discovery Solar Storage LLC, involving approximately 7,700 acres for battery storage development. The project is expected to generate significant construction jobs and long-term property tax revenue estimated at $758 million over 35 years, with staff recommending approval alongside environmental and land use mitigations. The board also considered a proposed streetlight service assessment for County Service Area 87 in Fuller Acres, which passed following a ballot process, enabling installation of 17 streetlights funded by a new assessment generating about $4,600 annually. Additionally, the board received a comprehensive report on job vacancies, recruitment, and retention efforts across county departments as required by Assembly Bill 2561, highlighting ongoing challenges in staffing and recruitment strategies. Public comments addressed concerns about state policies impacting local economic benefits from renewable energy projects and staffing shortages affecting county services. Motions related to these procurement and budget items were approved by the board during the meeting.