Lompoc City Council reviews CalPERS performance and approaches for addressing homelessness

The Lompoc City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to address various community issues and updates, focusing on public safety, financial matters, and ongoing city projects. The meeting began with acknowledgments of collaborative efforts among local agencies, including the Lompoc Police Department and county services, which contributed to recent successes in managing community challenges without incurring significant costs.

A key highlight was the discussion surrounding the city's financial health, particularly regarding CalPERS (California Public Employees' Retirement System). Council members celebrated two consecutive years of positive returns, with a notable 9.3% increase last year. This trend is expected to help stabilize future payment increases, although the immediate budget will remain unchanged. Council members expressed a desire for updated projections to better understand long-term impacts on city finances.

The council also reviewed the recent fireworks enforcement efforts, which resulted in 15 violations. The use of aerial surveillance was noted, and while some community members called for increased enforcement, the council acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing these events.

Public safety and homelessness were recurring themes, with council members emphasizing the importance of maintaining cleanliness in public spaces, particularly the riverbed area. They expressed a commitment to ongoing engagement with community support systems to ensure sustainable improvements.

The meeting concluded with a public comment session, where several items on the consent calendar were approved, including payroll and voucher registers. The council's discussions underscored a proactive approach to governance, focusing on collaboration, financial prudence, and community well-being. Future meetings are expected to continue addressing these critical issues as the city moves forward.