AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS
August 13, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING
REGULAR MEETING – 3:30 PM
REPORTS
Item 3.a. Potential Amendment to Charter to Increase Council Salary (All Wards) REGULAR MEETING – 5:15 PM
AGREEMENTS
Item 7.d.4 Real Time Information Center for the Bakersfield Police Department (All Wards) The Bakersfield Police Department (BPD) is developing a Real-Time Information Center (RTIC) that will serve as a central hub for situational awareness, critical incident response, and proactive policing efforts. As the demand for real -time information, co ordinated emergency operations, and seamless communication across public safety functions increases, the Department must invest in a specialized infrastructure that supports those capabilities and is adaptable to future needs. To meet these operational demands, the department seeks to enter a contract with Constant Technologies, a nationally recognized integrator of mission-critical audio/visual systems, to design, install, progra m, train, and provide ongoing service for the RTIC’s technology infrastructure. BPD is now requesting to enter into an agreement with a total compensation amount of $415,000 with a one -year term for Constant Technologies, Inc. to complete RTIC for the BPD. This project is fully funded through the PSVS Capital Improvement Project.
Item 7. i.1 Memorandum of Understanding with Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services for Homeless Co -Response Program with the Bakersfield Police Department (All Wards) The Bakersfield Police Department (BPD) and Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (Kern BHRS) are using innovative strategies to partner on handling behavioral health (BH) matters in our community by establishing a Homeless Co-Response Program focusing on those suffering from mental health issues who are also experiencing homelessness. Homel ess Co-Response units consist of a police officer and a BH Clinician working together in the field. The BPD and Kern BHRS conducted a pilot program where one clinician diverted approximately 70% of the 600-plus assigned calls, preventing a police officer response over 480 times to non -emergency calls. On August 31, 2022, the City and County of Kern, on behalf of Kern BHRS, entered into Agreement No. 2022 -181 to solidify the joint provision of services between BPD and Kern BHRS, for a total annual amount of $405,000 ($135,000 per position), and a term da te of June 30, 2023. The City now desires to enter into a new agreement with Kern BHRS in the amount of $405,000 and a term date of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, to continue Homeless Co-Response services.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Items 8.b Downtown Revitalization Grant Agreement with Dolores C. Huerta Foundation (Ward 2) In alignment with the City of Bakersfield’s Making Downtown Vision Plan and Downtown Corridor Enhancement Plan, the City developed the Downtown Revitalization Incentive Program to promote redevelopment, attract investment, and enhance quality of life in th e downtown area. The Dolores C.
Huerta Foundation has submitted a proposal seeking funding through this program to develop a long - vacant site at 2100 –2105 Eye Street into a cultural center featuring an amphitheater, museum, gallery, classrooms, and public gathering spaces. The project aligns with the City’s Public Safety and Vital Services (PSVS) initiative and Council goals by improving infrastructure, enhancing walkability, creating jobs, and boosting economic and cultural activity. Funding will be drawn from the PSVS operating budget for Fiscal Year 2025 –26, specifically from allocations designated for downtown infrastructure improvements.
NEW BUSINESS
Item 12.a Cesar Chavez Boulevard (All Wards ) In response to two 2024 Council referrals, City staff analyzed the process for renaming a street and identified H Street as the most suitable candidate based on traffic volume, length, number of addresses, and historical significance. The proposed renaming to Cesar Chavez Boulevard falls under Category 1 of the City’s Street Renaming Policy, which applies to individuals honored by federal or state holidays and allows the City to apply without requiring public petitions. Category 1 renamings are approved by the Planning Commission and costs for new street signs are covered by the City. Pending Council direction, staff are prepared to submit the application, engage the community, assess fiscal impacts and finalize the proposal. While the direct cost to the General Fund is minimal, expenses related to mapping updates and business address changes may require additional funding.
Prepared by: Jaritza Nunez, Management Fellow CC: Department Heads Alex Hinojosa, Management Fellow City Manager’s File City Clerk’s File
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