Eric Ohlsen Selected as Palmdale’s Next Mayor; Austin Bishop Named Mayor Pro Tem

PALMDALE, CA — The City Council appointed a new mayor and mayor pro tem during its meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 2. Mayor Pro Tem Laura Bettencourt symbolically handed the gavel to District 4 Councilmember Eric Ohlsen, who will assume the role of mayor on Jan. 1. District 1 Councilmember Austin Bishop was named mayor pro tem. Each will fulfill their duties for a one-year term.

“It’s been my honor to serve as mayor pro tem this year, and I am proud of all that we accomplished,” said Bettencourt. “I look forward to working alongside my colleagues on the Council to continue serving my constituents.”

“I am deeply committed to advancing our City’s goals and working collaboratively with our community,” said Ohlsen. “There are many exciting initiatives on the horizon, and I’m eager to help bring them to life in 2026.”

This will be Ohlsen’s first term as mayor since being elected to the City Council in 2022. He began his career by serving in the United States Coast Guard, where he held leadership positions working alongside federal, state and local agencies. He received advanced training in environmental science and public safety. Ohlsen is dedicated to his community and founded the Community Coalition of the Antelope Valley, a grassroots nonprofit promoting a cleaner and safer Palmdale. The organization’s projects include desert cleanup efforts and working to expand broadband access to rural areas.

Austin Bishop was first elected to the Palmdale City Council on Nov. 8, 2016, and re-elected on Nov. 3, 2020. He has served in leadership roles, including mayor pro tem in 2019 and mayor through 2024. A lifelong Palmdale resident, Bishop is committed to protecting the City’s interests and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

“As mayor pro tem, I am focused on completing Palmdale’s current road projects, supporting regional transportation efforts, including freeway improvements, and continuing to attract jobs and support local businesses,” said Bishop.

The first Council meeting of 2026 is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 5 p.m. To learn more about the Council and view upcoming meeting agendas, visit www.CityofPalmdaleCA.gov/CityCouncilMeetings.