A Night of Transitions and Community Focus: Bishop City Council Meeting – September 8, 2025

By: Tyler Beadle, Sierra Wave Media Writer

This is a rundown of Bishop’s City Council meeting on September 8, 2025, held at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. This session was filled with meaningful moments and key updates—perfect for anyone eager to stay in the loop. Let’s break it down!

The meeting kicked off with the Call to Order at 6:00 p.m., followed by a Moment of Silence. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Garcia and the Roll Call confirmed all were present, and the night was underway. During Public Comment, residents voiced strong support for saving the A-Frame Visitor Center on Main Street, though it wasn’t on the agenda. A structural engineer’s report, completed last week, missed the deadline but may appear next time.

The Oath of Office for City Administrator Pam Foster was administered by the City Clerk, marking her official start as Deston Dishion’s successor. Presentations honored Dishion’s 30-year career, beginning as a Public Works Maintenance Worker in 1995 and culminating as City Administrator in 2022. Emotional tributes from council and department heads highlighted his retirement, effective September 26. After the presentations, a brief break was held for the public, department heads, and council to have cake and celebrate his retirement.

Proclamations included a recognition of the Eastern Sierra Cancer Alliance (ESCA) for 25 years of service. The council presented the proclamation to Michelle Garcia and Barbara Laughon, celebrating ESCA’s support for over 300 clients with financial and emotional aid.

Department Reports brought updates: Fire Chief Bret Russell reported 31 incidents in August, with hazardous conditions at 32.26% and rescue/emergency medical services at 22.58%. Water Tender 14 was sent to aid the smoky Garnet Fire. Police Chief Nate Derr noted server issues delayed stats, to be posted soon. Public Works Director Nora Gamino shared a 6% drop in water use (61,754,428 gallons per the report) compared to August 2013, with progress on the W. Line water main project. Community Services Manager Daniel McElroy, Principal Planner Ana Budnyk, and incoming City Administrator Pam Foster gave a report on how they have been working together a lot over the past few days, ensuring a smooth transition.

The County of Inyo Update from Supervisor Jeff Griffiths highlighted an upcoming budget meeting for 2025-2026. He also mentioned a new AI usage policy for county employees. Then the council proceeded to the Consent Calendar, which passed 5-0, approving the July 2025 Budget and Financial Reports, and certificates of recognition for the September 13 Hispanic Heritage Celebration honorees: Elsa Jimenez, Adam Perez, Nancy Hagopian, Lupe Hernandez, and Pati Perez.

New Business featured a discussion on parking requirements for studio Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The council was divided—some favored adding requirements, others preferred the current exemption. No decision was reached, with more to come as the ADU ordinance updates.

Future Agenda Items included Councilmember Dennis proposing $30,000-$40,000 for fire department bathroom and shower repairs, a nod to their hard work. Council and Committee Reports were standard, with Councilmember Jose promoting Hispanic Heritage Day. Councilmember Stephen, with Karen Schwartz noting the Eastern Sierra Mussel Prevention Collective’s plan to try to get Inyo and Mono Counties to agree to test all boats going into bodies of water, because of the Golden Mussel—a potential challenge for recreation.

The meeting adjourned at 8:19 pm, with the next session set for September 22, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Check the City of Bishop website for full reports and agenda items. What are your thoughts on these developments? Let’s keep talking! Reach out to me at [email protected] for further discussion, comments, or feedback.