The Mountain Communities Municipal Advisory Council (MCMAC) was sworn in by supervisor Ray Watson on Tuesday, February 16 with between 20 and 30 in attendance.  Officers of the new body were selected: Chairman - Steve Newman, Vice-Chairman - Rob Peterson, Secretary - Linda MacKay, Budget - Anne Weber.

Linda MacKay recognized the late Lloyd Wiens; saying the MCMAC was a result of efforts he and Fred Rose made; even though it turned out to be different than either had hoped.

After a discussion about the MCMAC bylaws, Linda MacKay attempted to start discussion on two matters outside of Kern County but in our area.  The mine in Lockwood Valley is seeking to expand.  MacKay shared some concern over the expansion possibly threatening some endangered species.  A possible motorcycle track in the poppy preserve was another issue raised by MacKay.  Discussion of these two concerns were met with grumbling by those in attendance that correctly pointed out that they were outside Kern County.  

The MCMAC then presented a survey that states: "The Mountain Communities Municipal Advisory Council is very interested in what mountain community residents feel are the important issues for our area. This Council would like your help to know what we should look at so we can take steps to improve our communities.  Please look at the list of issues below that were brought up by community members at the MCMAC informational meeting on 10/29/09.  Please help us prioritize these issues and add other issues you may want the MCMAC to consider for future meetings.  "  Click here to view and print the survey.

Derrill Whitten of Cornerstone Engineering made a presentation on Frazier Park Estates.  He attempted to allay fears over traffic, inadequate water supply and make the case that the disputed development would be a valuable addition to the mountain communities.  The development plan has been scaled back by over 100 homes. 

MAC Chairman Steve Newman shared a concern that Frazier Park Estates would be a bit of suburbia planted in these mountains.  Whitten addressed this concern by emphasizing the utilitarian efficiency of close housing.  Local resident Pat Kennedy said he felt Whitten made a convincing argument over adequate water supply for the project.