George Santayana once said, “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it”. All too often, it seems like city policies are driven by old grudges. It's unfortunate that some seem to live by Kurt Vonnegut's version; "We're doomed to repeat the past no matter what.” 

 

We need to get past that. Steve believes that by learning from the past, we can shape an outcome. A classic example is our Transit Agency. It was mired in controversy, bogged down in litigation, and stagnant with criminal investigations and witch hunts.

 

Today, working collaboratively with our agency partners, industry, and the legislative process, we have brought multiple tens of millions of tax money back to the Antelope Valley in the form of innovation grants. Those are local jobs! As a result, AVTA today is an industry leader, looked at as a model by agencies worldwide. We are replacing an aging diesel fleet with clean electric buses - built right here in the AV - and improving routes and reducing travel time.

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More recently, Steve called for the audit of local special districts. This resulted in the freeing up of millions of dollars, which were then reinvested into our community, in the form of road and infrastructure development required for Palmdale's growth.

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Steve also has worked hard to enhance the transparency of city governance. With his frequent posts to social media and availability to any member or community, the Mayor's door has never been more open to the people of Palmdale.