Council votes support for new projects

Small Business Loyalty

At their February 16 meeting, the Tehachapi City Council voted unanimously to approve a new program presented by Economic Development Coordinator Corey Costelloe. The aim of the “Small Business Loyalty Program” would be to provide an incentive for the public to make purchases at small businesses within the City of Tehachapi.

Costelloe explained that customers who purchase $100 or more of goods or services at any independently owned small business within the City of Tehachapi between March 1-31, can bring the receipts to City Hall and receive a $20 gift card that is redeemable at a variety of local restaurants. Alcohol, tobacco and gasoline are excluded as are the chain retailers. Only one gift card per week per person will be allowed. The Council approved $1,000 for the program with another $1,000 in reserve if the program is successful.

Tehachapi Loop Overlook

City Manager Greg Garrett said that the City had been approached by Friends of the Depot regarding support for the new Loop Overlook Platform championed by Friends of the Depot and also supported by the County Board of Supervisors. The overlook is a California Historic Landmark, a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark and one of the major attractions of the Tehachapi area. Friends of the Deport is spearheading a project to improve the overlook and make it safer for visitors and buses that park along Woodford Tehachapi Rd. Garrett proposed a partnership in the project and asked for a contribution of $10,000 from the City toward the project. The City Council readily approved the donation.

Beautification Awards

In response to the great success of the Holiday Decorating Contest and to continue positive community participation in displaying pride in our community, Tehachapi Community Engagement Specialist Key Budge announced a plan for the development of a Beautification Awards Program. The City Council approved $1,000 for the creation of a program where citizens could honor neighbors by acknowledging exceptional home care and landscaping by nominating them for a property beautification award and plaque as well as a mention on social media and a press release. More on this program will be coming in the near future.

Per the State of California Executive Order N-29-20, this meeting was held telephonically. City Council and Planning Commission meetings may be observed (or heard) online at http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh0HOSFazMT27ynDXhkUQ0A.