City Council Meeting 8/19/26

The City Council meeting of Ridgecrest on August 19, 2026, covered several topics including public comments on the Flock Safety license plate reader system, with concerns raised about privacy and contract terms. The council discussed the need for formal agenda items to address contract amendments with Flock. Another significant topic was the proposal to allow responsibly kept backyard chickens in residential neighborhoods, with public speakers advocating for clear, enforceable ordinances to support food security and self-reliance. The council also reviewed and approved a traffic engineering and speed zone survey report recommending changes to speed limits on various street segments, with some public concern about the timing and notice of the report. Additionally, the council introduced an ordinance amending the municipal code related to conflicts of interest. No direct contract awards or procurement decisions were made during this meeting, but discussions indicated potential future agenda items related to contract amendments and municipal code updates.