Changes in the works for TVRPD

When the TVRPD Board met on Nov. 28, they welcomed their new member Wes Backes who had been appointed by the city on Nov. 18. Backes and his family have been in Tehachapi for many years. He graduated from Tehachapi High School where he played football for Coach Denman. He is now a member of the Tehachapi Fire Department and stationed at the Valley and Curry station.

The Board voted unanimously to take over the Tehachapi Gran Fondo from the City. The matter was due to come before the City Council for approval on Dec. 4 and according to Board Chair Laura Lynne Wyatt, "we have to agree to take it before it can be transferred to us." Organizer Michelle Vance told the board that the event pays for itself between the over $50,000 in sponsorships and more than $72,000 from the riders. Almost all revenue comes in before the expenses are paid. The Fondo also donates $22,000 to the many volunteer organizations that supply the 263 volunteers every year. Wyatt read a letter of support from City Manager Greg Garrett.

Vance asked the Board to approve $15,000 to replace the deteriorating flooring in the meeting room at the District Offices. She would like to have a nice space available for organizations to use for meetings or to rent for events. It could also be used for some new classes, including Meditation, that are planned for next year.

Ashley Krempien updated the Board on activities at all of the parks as well as the plans for Brite Lake. Read the Forde Files for more details.