Town of Mammoth Lakes

01/15/2025

TOWN COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA ITEMS – January 15, 2025 @4:00PM

INTRODUCTIONS
• Introduce new Senior Accounting Assistant Dora Bessenbacher.
• Introduce new Engineering Assistant Trace Calvin.
• Introduce new Police Officer Julio Gonzalez.

TOWN COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS
• Recognize the promotion of Richard Marchant to Police Corporal.
• Recognition of Revenue Accountant Danny Earls for ten years of service.

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
• Golden State Connect Authority (GSCA) Broadband Update presented by Barbara Hayes, Chief Economic Development Officer of the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC).
• Lease to Locals Program – Mid-Contract Update.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
• Public hearing to discuss the accomplishments of the Town’s CDBG CARES Act Grants (20-CDBG-CV1-00028 & 20-CV-2-3-00093).

POLICY MATTERS
• 6:00PM - Town Council Strategic Planning Series – Presentation of community survey results and request for public comment.
• Plan for allocation of additional Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) received from Measure L.
• Provide Direction on Phase 3 of the Parcel.
• Town Council Adoption of California Joint Strategy for Sustainable Outdoor Recreation & Wildlife Resilience.

MEETING AGENDA: https://pub-townofmammothlakes.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=00514d58-8065-4025-a548-362eb941e26d&Agenda=Agenda&lang=English

WATCH THE MEETING LIVE ONLINE BY CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW AND SELECTING THE APPROPRIATE MEETING. PUBLIC COMMENT IS ALSO AVAILABLE VIA ZOOM. PLEASE CONTACT THE TOWN CLERK FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE IN THIS PUBLIC MEETING.

WATCH LIVE: https://pub-townofmammothlakes.escribemeetings.com/?Year=2024

01/14/2025

01/14/2025

Due to unseasonably mild winter conditions, the Parks and Recreation Department has re-opened the Community Dog Park! The Town will provide complimentary dog waste bags, and all owners are required to collect and properly dispose of their dog waste in the provided trash. The restroom will remain CLOSED, and no water is available for dogs on-site. The Community Dog Park will remain OPEN while snow conditions and temperatures are favorable for staff to service the park and access to the parking lot.

01/14/2025

TOWN OF MAMMOTH LAKES FIRE RELIEF DONATION DRIVE

The entire community of Mammoth Lakes is sending love and deepest sympathies to our Los Angeles neighbors impacted by the devastating wildfires.

Please join us by donating to the Fire Relief Donation Drive at Mammoth Lakes Ice operating within the Community Recreation Center (CRC), located at 686 Old Mammoth Road every day from 12-8pm.

Your contribution will make a huge difference in helping our southern neighbors recover and rebuild.

Donations will be delivered to local LA county YMCA’s who are on the front lines distributing to those people in need. Requests for donation items may change - we appreciate your understanding if we no longer accept specific items.

Acceptable donations include toiletry items, feminine products, pet supplies, baby essentials, diapers, children’s toys, coffee makers, phone chargers, microwaves, bottled water and canned/non-perishable food.

If you would like to make a financial donation, please visit the Town website for a comprehensive list of reputable organizations seeking assistance as they aid wildfire victims and first responders affected by the devastating wildfires: https://www.townofmammothlakes.ca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=917

01/13/2025

Thank you Mammoth Lakes Fire Department!

MONDAY 1/13/2025 - MLFD CREWS REASSIGNED TO PALISADES FIRE

The Mono County Task Force which includes MLFD Engines 3332 and 3334 has been reassigned to the Palisades Fire and is continuing to assist with fire suppression efforts in Southern California. As of 11:00 a.m., the Palisades Fire was reported as 23,713 acres and 14% contained, with a Red Flag Warning in effect until Wenesday at 6:00 p.m.

01/11/2025

Sherwin Meadows Trailhead Construction Update

New restrooms are fully functional and open for public use with all work expected to be completed by the end of this month. Lets get recreating Mammoth Lakes!

Thank you Mammoth Lakes Recreation and Mammoth Lakes Trail System.

01/10/2025

ATTEMPT TO IDENTIFY- Felony Assault Suspect

Our Department is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying this suspect. Please contact Detective Madera with any information at 760-249-7507 (text is fine). Alternatively, you can call the station during normal business hours at 760-965-3700.

On 12/14/2024 at approximately 2230 hours, Mammoth Lakes Police Department Officers responded to Lakanuki Bar for a report of a felony assault. The unknown suspect assaulted Lakanuki Bar security staff after getting removed from the bar due to his level of intoxication. Victim sustained a substantial laceration on the interior of his mouth. Suspect has no associated vehicle.

01/10/2025

COMMUNITY eNEWS - January 10, 2025

Town Council Meeting Items – January 15

- Town staff will introduce new Senior Accounting Assistant Dora Bessenbacher, new Engineering Assistant Trace Calvin and new Police Officer Julio Gonzalez.
- Town Council will recognize the promotion of Richard Marchant to Police Corporal and recognize Revenue Accountant Danny Earls for ten years of service.
- Public Presentations: Barbara Hayes, Chief Economic Development Officer of the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) will provide a broadband update, followed by a Lease to Locals Program update.
- Public Hearing: Town Council will discuss the accomplishments of the Town’s CDBG CARES Act Grants
- 6:00pm – Strategic Planning Series. Public comment period and discussion of Strategic Priorities and Key objectives for 2025.
- Policy Items: Plan for allocation of additional Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) received from Measure L, provide direction on Phase 3 of the Parcel, and Town Council will consider adopting the California Joint Strategy for Sustainable Outdoor Recreation & Wildlife Resilience.
- Review the meeting agenda or watch the meeting online:https://pub-townofmammothlakes.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=b51ea617-813c-4544-aefb-c3b4feedd356&Agenda=Agenda&lang=English

Message of Support to our Los Angeles Neighbors and How You can Help!

- The entire community of Mammoth Lakes is sending love and deepest sympathies to our Los Angeles neighbors impacted by the devastating wildfires.
- Two years ago, our small-town experienced record-setting snowfall that produced multiple escalating incidents which led to the proclamation of a local emergency. First Responders from Southern California responded immediately and traveled hundreds of miles to our community in our time of dire need.
- We are proud to return that support now with over 40 firefighters from our region joining the hundreds of first responders from around the State lining up to fight these catastrophic fires.
- Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved.
- Please visit this page to help those affected by this devastating wildfire: https://www.townofmammothlakes.ca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=917

Resident Sentiment Survey Extended to January 17

- Tourism is vital to our economy, but it must be balanced with stewardship for the land and respect for our community.
- This survey is one part of a larger research effort to help address your needs and concerns so we can work together to ensure effective, responsible visitation.
- Participants can enter to win a $500 Yiftee gift card! The survey now closes on Friday, January 17, 2025.
- Complete the survey today: https://www.visitmammoth.com/community-sentiment/

LA Kings Hockey Development Camp - January 23-26

- Join us for the annual LA Kings Adult Clinics and Youth Camps at Mammoth Lakes Ice from January 23-26. Registration includes instruction from LA Kings Alumnus/Specialists, tickets to an LA Kings game, invitation to the LA Kings vs. Columbus Blue Jackets watch party and so much more!
- Youth aged 5-9 and 10-14 years old are invited to register for a 3-day LA Kings Hockey Development Camp scheduled for Friday afternoon and Saturday/Sunday mornings. The cost is only $171 per player.
- The LA Kings are also hosting a one-hour Women’s Clinic on Thursday night from 8:30-9:30pm and a Coed Clinic at 7:45pm on Friday night. Equipment is not provided. All participants must have their own full set of hockey gear. The $55 fee also includes a ticket to a LA Kings Home Game.
- Register online: https://www.nhl.com/kings/news/mammoth-camps-clinics

Community Funding Applications NOW OPEN!

- The community of Mammoth Lakes has several funding opportunities for local organizations to help grow a youth sports program, host a special event, or provide diverse and enhanced arts, culture or recreation programs for residents and visitors of Mammoth Lakes.
- This January, Youth Sports funding managed by Mammoth Parks N Rec. and Measure U - Recreation, Arts and Culture funding managed by Mammoth Lakes Recreation OPENED for eligible organizations.
- Please visit the website to view a list of funding sources that includes information and timelines for available funding, eligibility requirements and general application guidelines: https://www.townofmammothlakes.ca.gov/1161/COMMUNITY-FUNDING

01/10/2025

A super-sized Nordic trail system for enhanced recreation in our community!

01/10/2025

All recreation - all the time!

LA Kings Camps and Clinics are open for registration for Adults and Youth. Offerings include Adult Women's Clinic, Adult Co-Ed Clinic, Youth Clinic for 5-9 years old, and Youth Clinic for 10-14 years old.

Adult Leagues and programs are open for registration including Volleyball League, Soccer League, Women's Hockey League, and Adult Skating Lessons.

Find more information on registration, events, and more at Recreation This Week!

https://www.townofmammothlakes.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14867/RECREATION-THIS-WEEK_1-9-2025

01/09/2025

Message of Support for our Los Angeles Neighbors and How You can Help!

The entire community of Mammoth Lakes is sending love and deepest sympathies to our Los Angeles neighbors impacted by the devastating wildfires.

Two years ago, our small town experienced record-setting snowfall that produced multiple escalating incidents which led to the proclamation of a local emergency. First Responders from Southern California responded immediately and traveled hundreds of miles to our community in our time of dire need.

We are proud to return that support now with over 40 firefighters from our region joining the hundreds of first responders from around the State lining up to fight these catastrophic fires. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved.

Please visit the Town website for a comprehensive list of reputable organizations seeking assistance as they aid wildfire victims and first responders affected by the devastating wildfires: https://www.townofmammothlakes.ca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=917

01/08/2025

DID YOU KNOW that Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) in Mammoth Lakes increased on January 1st?

- Measure L was placed on the ballot by the Mammoth Lakes Town Council in November 2024 to raise TOT from 13% to 15% and required a majority vote to pass.

- The measure was approved with a nearly 64% yes vote.

- The increase went into effect on January 1, 2025.

- The tourism business improvement district assessment of 1% for lodging businesses will remain unchanged, making the total amount due for short-term rentals 16% beginning January 1, 2025.

- The purpose of the measure is to allocate funding toward the Town’s Housing Now! program so that service and trade workers, teachers, nurses, hospitality workers, and other working families can afford to live in the community they serve.

- Measure L funding can also be used to:
o Improve disaster preparedness by equipping our town with the necessary resources to prevent and address disaster threats.
o Maintain public trails, parks, and open spaces to ensure these areas remain safe, beautiful and accessible for recreation activities.
o Repair roads, maintain sidewalks, and fund high-quality snow removal equipment to promote efficient and safe transportation throughout Mammoth Lakes.

- The Mammoth Lakes Town Council will decide how to allocate the funds raised to specific projects as part of the budgeting process, and those decisions are required to be made at public meetings with opportunities for public involvement.

- Measure L will sunset after 10 years, expiring January 1, 2035, unless extended by Mammoth voters.

If you have questions about Measure L, TOT, or short-term rentals in Mammoth Lakes, please contact the Finance Department at (760) 965-3660.

01/08/2025

Thank you Mammoth Lakes Fire Department!

WEDNESDAY 1/8/2025 - MLFD RESPONDS TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES AS PART OF A MONO COUNTY TASK FORCE

In response to the devastating wildfires raging throughout Southern California, MLFD has sent two Type 3 engines to the Hurst Fire as part of a Mono County Task Force. We are proud to have our personnel be able to assist other California communities during this tragic time.

01/06/2025

TOWN COUNCIL WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU!

With the holidays and new year celebrations behind us, the Mammoth Lakes Town Council is back to work defining the community’s Strategic Priorities and Key Objectives for 2025.

Town Council began the Strategic Planning Series in November and completed several topics including a review of public comments received from the Town’s 40th Anniversary Visioning Exercise, an overview of Town Core Services, a review of the 2023 Town Council Strategic Priorities and Key Objectives and on December 18, reviewed major policy, projects, master planning efforts, and workplan items planned for 2025 and beyond.

On Wednesday, January 15, Town Council wants to hear from you! Attend the Town Council meeting in-person from 4:00pm in the Council Chambers (Suite Z), located in the Minaret Village Mall (Vons) above Starbucks.

Your valuable feedback will broadly guide and inform the Town's strategic planning effort for the following major topics: Economy; Housing and Development; Mobility and Transportation; Parks, Recreation, and Trails; Public Safety; Land Use and Development, Sustainability and the Environment.

Can’t make it to the meeting, don’t worry, take the brief survey online: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5YVQJMM

Thank you in advance for your interest in making Mammoth Lakes a great place to live, work and play!

01/03/2025

COMMUNITY eNEWS - January 3, 2025

New Ways to Reduce your Impact on the Environment in Mammoth Lakes

- This year, the Town of Mammoth Lakes continues to stand up for Mother Nature by fully enforcing two important prohibitions approved two years ago. In a nutshell, don’t expect Styrofoam to-go containers to be found anywhere in town, and BYOWB (bring your own water bottle) if you want to carry water less than or equal to 500ml.
- In July and December of 2023, the Mammoth Lakes Town Council passed a Styrofoam and plastic bottle prohibition with the goal of reducing waste.
- The first, a Styrofoam prohibition passed on July 12, 2023, prohibits take-out Styrofoam food-ware containers from food service providers, lodging facilities, and special event operators. This prohibition took effect on January 1, 2024, but exceptions for hardships were given. As of January 1, 2025, this prohibition will now be fully enforced.
- The second, a single-use plastic water bottle prohibition for bottles less than or equal to 500ml was passed on December 20, 2023 and is broken into two phases.
- Phase 1 Prohibits: Town government and all special events (events requiring a permit from the Town) from using, selling or distributing single-use plastic water bottles less than or equal to 500 ml. This phase took effect on January 1, 2025.
- Phase 2 Prohibits: All businesses within the Town from selling or distributing single-use plastic water bottles less than or greater to 500 ml. This phase will take effect next year on January 1, 2026.
- So do your part and embrace these environmentally-friendly changes to keep Mammoth Lakes as clean and beautiful as Mother Nature intended.

What is Your Vision for Mammoth Lakes?

- The Mammoth Lakes Town Council invites you to provide your comments or recommendations for the Strategic Planning Series that will help define the Town Council’s Strategic Priorities and Key Objectives for 2025.
- Your valuable feedback will broadly guide and inform the Town's strategic planning effort for the following major topics: Economy; Housing and Development; Mobility and Transportation; Parks, Recreation, and Trails; Public Safety; Land Use and Development, Sustainability and the Environment.
- Thank you in advance of your time to complete the ONLINE SURVEY: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5YVQJMM

Secure Your Trash and Lock Your Dumpster

- The Mammoth Lakes Police Department wants to remind our community and visitors that it is up to us to help protect our bears.
- Please secure all your trash and take the time to lock your dumpster. Do not leave any food, toiletries, or anything else with a scent in your vehicle and lock your vehicle doors.
- Please slow down when driving through Mammoth Lakes and report any incidents with bears or open dumpsters by calling Dispatch at (760) 932-7549, option 7.
- Together we can keep both our bears and other wildlife safe from harm. Living with them is one of the many reasons that we love Mammoth Lakes!

Safe and Sustainable Mammoth Disposal Tips for the Holidays

- Christmas Tree Disposal: Free for all Town of Mammoth residential account holders. A $5 fee applies for multifamily households or those who reside outside of Mammoth Lakes. Please remove all decorations before dropping off your tree at our Transfer Station (59 Commerce Drive) in the Industrial Park. Trees will be sent to Full Circle Composting Facility in Nevada for eco-friendly processing.
- Holiday Gift Wrap: Most wrapping paper can't be recycled, but reusing it is a great option. Consider turning it into confetti, drawer liners, DIY greeting cards, origami, or gift tags to reduce waste.
- Christmas Lights = Hazardous E-Waste: Old or broken Christmas lights are hazardous e-waste. Drop them off at the Transfer Station or donate working lights for reuse.
- Ashes from Holiday Fires: Always dispose of ashes in designated bins with red lids to prevent fire hazards. Do not place them in regular trash.
- Happy Holidays from the team at Mammoth Disposal!

01/03/2025

All recreation - all the time!

Youth and Adult Programs and Leagues are OPEN for registration!

• Youth Hot Shots Basketball: Grades 3-5
• Youth Cooking Classes: Grades 3-8
• Youth Gymnastics: Ages 3-15 years
• Youth Ice Skating Lessons: Ages 5+ years
• Youth Hockey Skating Improvement: Ages 8-14
• Adult Volleyball League: Register by Jan. 21
• Adult Soccer League: Register by Jan. 17
• Adult Women’s Ice Hockey League: Register by Jan. 16
• Adult Ice Skating Lessons: Open registration

Find information on these programs and more at Rec This Week! 🏀

https://www.townofmammothlakes.ca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/14849/RECREATION-THIS-WEEK_1-3-2025

01/02/2025

New year. New beginnings. New ways to reduce your impact on the environment in Mammoth Lakes.

This year, the Town of Mammoth Lakes continues to stand up for Mother Nature by fully enforcing two important prohibitions approved two years ago. In a nutshell, don’t expect Styrofoam to-go containers to be found anywhere in town, and BYOWB (bring your own water bottle) if you want to carry water less than or equal to 500ml.

In July and December of 2023, the Mammoth Lakes Town Council passed a Styrofoam prohibition and a plastic bottle prohibition with the goal of reducing waste.

The first, a Styrofoam prohibition passed on July 12, 2023, prohibits take-out Styrofoam food-ware containers from food service providers, lodging facilities, and special event operators. This prohibition took effect on January 1, 2024, but exceptions for hardships were given. As of January 1, 2025, this prohibition will now be fully enforced.

The second, a single-use plastic water bottle prohibition for bottles less than or equal to 500ml was passed on December 20, 2023 and is broken into two phases.

Phase 1 Prohibits: Town government and all special events (events requiring a permit from the Town) from using, selling or distributing single-use plastic water bottles less than or equal to 500 ml. This phase took effect yesterday (1/1/2025).

Phase 2 Prohibits: All businesses within the Town from selling or distributing single-use plastic water bottles less than or greater to 500 ml. This phase will take effect next year on January 1, 2026.

So do your part and embrace these environmentally-friendly changes to keep Mammoth Lakes as clean and beautiful as Mother Nature intended. 📷 Visit Mammoth