City Council Meeting 9/2/2026

The City Council meeting of Ridgecrest on September 2, 2026, included presentations and extensive public discussion on community support for the police explorer program and a detailed update on the wastewater treatment plant. The wastewater treatment plant update covered the aging infrastructure, plans for a new plant with increased capacity, funding options including a low-interest state loan and potential EPA grant, and a rate study to adjust user fees accordingly. Council members discussed the financial implications and timeline for construction completion by 2030. Public comments focused heavily on the issue of allowing backyard chickens within city limits, with residents sharing personal experiences and advocating for ordinance amendments to permit and regulate poultry keeping responsibly. The council agreed to direct staff to research potential costs and options for amending the municipal code regarding chickens. Other agenda items included adoption of a conflicts of interest ordinance and committee reports. No contract awards or procurement decisions were made during this meeting, but the wastewater treatment plant project and related funding efforts represent significant upcoming capital improvements for the city.