In May 1996, the Kern County Board of Supervisors resolved that "[t]he County of Kern is committed to providing complete and factual information to citizens regarding the annexation process and the effect of annexations on citizens in order to assist [them] in making informed decisions as to whether to support or oppose an annexation proposal ..." and "[t]he County of Kern supports the will of the people in territory proposed to be annexed by providing information upon request regarding the annexation process, timing, requirements, and sample documents that may be used by either proponents or opponents to an annexation ..."

On August 18, 1998, the Kern County Board of Supervisors established the Citizens' Advisory Committee on Annexations. Members of the Board had received numerous complaints regarding the lack of easily obtainable, complete, and timely information about the annexation process. Additionally, many constituents also perceived that they were being denied their right to participate in the annexation process.

The information posted on this site, provided by the Board-appointed Citizens' Advisory Committee, is designed to assist the Board in providing information to County residents and others affected by the annexation process. It is revised periodically to reflect changes in local annexation policies and procedures as well as the State law governing annexations, the Cortese-Knox-Hertzberg Local Government Reorganization Act of 2000. This site is intended to help readers understand the annexation process, but should not be construed as providing comprehensive legal or other advice. The Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo) can provide technical guidance regarding annexations; legal advice should be obtained from an attorney.

The Board resolution creating the Committee defines its sphere of influence as encompassing the geographic area contained in the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan. Members of the Advisory Committee must also reside in this area.

Citizen participation at Advisory Committee meetings is both welcomed and encouraged. Scheduled meeting information may be obtained by contacting the Kern County Administrative Office at 661-868-3198.

The Advisory Committee and its individual members are pleased to entertain inquiries about the annexation process and the applicability of State law to proposed annexations. Readers who have comments on this site or questions about the annexation process are invited to contact the County Administrative Office at 661-868-3198 or email LAFCo.

Additional Committee Information