Councilmembers Meet with U.S. Senators to Advocate for Californians

PALMDALE, CA — Earlier this month, City of Palmdale representatives traveled to Washington, D.C., to join fellow local leaders from across California for discussions with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff. The meetings, organized by the League of California Cities, focused on protecting critical federal funding for cities, advocating for local priorities, securing FEMA reimbursements and ensuring disaster aid reaches communities in need across the state.

Mayor Richard J. Loa, who attended the meeting alongside Councilmember Andrea Alarcón, highlighted the impact these gatherings can have on Palmdale residents. 

“It was critical for us to be here in Washington to ensure that Palmdale’s needs are heard and prioritized,” said Mayor Loa. “We appreciate the opportunity to speak with our federal representatives about the challenges our community faces and the funding necessary to continue building a thriving City.”

The League of California Cities, a statewide association that advocates for cities by influencing policy decisions at the state and federal levels, plays a crucial role in ensuring that municipalities have the resources and support needed to serve their residents effectively.

“Federal funding and support are essential to the success of cities like Palmdale,” said Mayor Pro Tem Bettencourt. “Collaborating with leaders across California strengthens our collective voice and allows us to push for policies that directly benefit our residents.”

Other attendees included representatives from the cities of Anaheim, Beverly Hills, Carlsbad, Concord, El Cerrito, Fowler, Fremont, Goleta, La Brea, La Cañada Flintridge, Lomita, Lynwood, Mountain View, Oakland, Pinole, Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, San Leandro, Santa Ana, Santa Clarita, Santa Monica, Seaside, Stanton, Sunnyvale, Thousand Oaks, Tracy, Union City and Walnut Creek.

During the meetings, City officials emphasized the need for continued investment in local projects, particularly in transportation, housing and public safety. Palmdale remains committed to working alongside the League of California Cities and federal representatives to ensure its residents receive the support and funding they deserve. For more information on Legislative Affairs in Palmdale, visit www.CityOfPalmdaleCA.gov/LegislativeAffairs.