In a recent government meeting, officials discussed an amendment to an existing agreement aimed at complying with California's SB 1383, which mandates organic waste reduction. The amendment expands the service area to include a new zone between Yucca Valley and 29 Palms, updating the boundary map and introducing new service rates to provide residents with more options for compliance. Notices were sent to over 7,700 residents, with eight protest letters received, all from outside the new zone.

The meeting also addressed the annexation of a parcel into a community facilities district for fire suppression services in Hesperia. The parcel, located near Oak Hill and Mariposa Roads, will generate approximately $1,473 annually for fire services. The board unanimously approved the annexation after confirming that the property owners had consented to the process.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an appeal regarding the BMT Mineola solar project, which aims to develop a community-oriented solar facility on a 91-acre site in Daggett. The Newberry Springs Community Services District filed the appeal, raising concerns about potential health risks from silica dust due to soil disturbance and the project's proximity to their community. The appellant requested conditions to mitigate dust, ensure local energy distribution, and prohibit lithium battery use.

In response, the project developers emphasized that the solar facility would adhere to strict environmental regulations and that no lithium batteries would be used on-site. They highlighted their commitment to local energy distribution through an interconnection agreement with Southern California Edison.

The board ultimately voted to deny the appeal, adopting the mitigated negative declaration and approving the project, citing compliance with environmental standards and the need for renewable energy development in the area. The meeting concluded with unanimous support for the proposed amendments and projects, reflecting a commitment to both environmental sustainability and community safety.