Highland · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Highland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Storm Preparedness and Response Funding
The city was positioned to add $150,000 to its storm response budget, bringing the year's total to $350,000. That money funds contracts and purchases to keep the city ready for storm damage.
Fire Station #1 Sleeping Quarter Privacy
The city's oldest fire station has one big open dorm room, while newer stations have private rooms. With staffing jumping from 24 to 31 under the new CAL Fire contract and a mixed-gender workforce, privacy has become a pressing workplace issue. The fix would cost $275,000.
Illegal Fireworks Enforcement and Citation Appeals
The city is aggressively citing property owners — not tenants or guests — for fireworks discharged at their properties on July 4th, backed by dashcam video. Owners are on the hook even if they weren't home or didn't light anything, and fines can reach $2,000.
Fire Department Fund Structure Reorganization
The city is considering moving the Fire Department's fund accounting into the general fund to streamline budget management.