Kern County Board of Supervisors 2:00 p.m. meeting for Tuesday, July 28, 2026

The Kern County Board of Supervisors convened on July 28, 2026, addressing several agenda items including public comments, departmental updates, and public hearings on proposed sewer rate increases for four County Service Areas (CSAs 71, 71.1, 71.2, and 71.3). The Public Works Department presented detailed justifications for the rate increases, primarily to cover rising costs from the City of Bakersfield's sewer rate hikes and county maintenance expenses. The board debated the timing and fairness of these increases, especially given ongoing litigation with the city. Ultimately, motions to approve the rate increases failed, and the board voted to deny the proposed increases, thereby avoiding additional charges to residents. Additionally, the board approved the salary for the newly appointed Chief Probation Officer and introduced an ordinance to establish a standalone Department of Elections with an appointed Registrar of Voters, moving forward with the transition process. No contract awards or vendor selections were discussed during this meeting.