March 11, 2025
4:00 p.m.
In Chambers
Council Chambers
99 E. Ramsey Street
Banning, CA 92220
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PUBLIC COMMENTS - Agenda Items Only
3. WORKSHOP
3.1 Historic Preservation Commission Interviews for Positions 1 through 5
3.2 Banning Youth Council Interview
AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL - SPECIAL MEETING (WORKSHOP)
CITY OF BANNING, CALIFORNIA
The following information comprises the agenda for the regular meeting of the Banning City Council, a joint meeting of the City Council and Banning Utility Authority, and the Banning City Council sitting in its capacity as the Banning Successor Agency Board.
This meeting is being held via Zoom so that members of the public may observe and participate in this meeting electronically. If you participate in this meeting via Zoom, you are agreeing to abide by the City's Zoom Community Standards for Public Meetings (provided in full on the last page of the agenda). Esta reunión se lleva a cabo en la Cámara y a través de Video/Teleconferencia en Zoom para que los miembros del público puedan observar y participar en esta reunión de manera electrónica. Si elige participar en esta reunión a través de Zoom, acepta cumplir con los Estándares comunitarios de Zoom para reuniones públicas de la ciudad (que se proporcionan en su totalidad en la última página de la agenda).
To observe and participate in the online video portion of the meeting through your personal computer or device, follow this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82012644588?pwd=RwqtJC8xehLDKZvr3LEKOf9u8uP2pt.1 Dial in: +1 669 900 9128
Meeting ID: 820 1264 4588
Password: 92220
Per the City of Banning Manual of Procedural Guidelines, matters taken up by the Council before 10 p.m. may be concluded, but no new matters shall be taken up except upon a majority vote of the council members present and voting. Such an extension shall only be valid for one hour and each hour thereafter shall require a renewed action for the meeting to continue.
Recommendation: Conduct interviews to fill Historic Preservation Commission vacancies in Positions 1 through 5.
Recommendation: Conduct interview for Banning Youth Council.
City Council - Special Meeting (Workshop) Agenda
March 11, 2025
1 4. ADJOURNMENT
Zoom Community Standards for Public Meetings
By participating in this meeting on Zoom, you are agreeing to abide by the City of Banning’s Community Standards for Public Meetings. Zoom attendees that fail to adhere to these standards may be removed from the meeting room.
Your microphone must remain on mute, and you may only unmute your microphone when/if you are recognized by the Mayor.
Your camera must be turned off unless/until you are recognized by the Mayor.
To indicate a desire to make Public Comment, you must use the Raise Hand function. The Mayor will not recognize those who have not used the Raise Hand function.
Public Comment from Zoom attendees will immediately follow in-person comment from members of the public in Council Chambers.
If you fail to adhere to these community guidelines, you may be removed for disrupting the meeting occurring in Council Chambers. You may rejoin the meeting but may be removed for each violation of these community standards.
The chat function will be disabled for all City Council meetings on Zoom.
Estándares comunitarios de Zoom para Reuniones Públicas Al participar en esta reunión en Zoom, usted acepta cumplir con los Estándares Comunitarios para Reuniones Públicas de la ciudad de Banning. Los que atienden por Zoom que no cumplan con estos estándares pueden ser retirados de la sala de reuniones.
Su micrófono debe permanecer en silencio, y solo puede reactivar su micrófono cuando / si es reconocido por el alcalde.
Su cámara debe estar apagada a menos que sea reconocido por el alcalde.
Para indicar el deseo de hacer un Comentario Público, debe utilizar la función Levantar la mano. El alcalde no reconocerá a quienes no hayan utilizado la función Levantar la mano.
Los comentarios públicos de lo que atienden por Zoom seguirán inmediatamente los comentarios en persona de los miembros del público en las Cámaras del Consejo.
Si no cumple con estas pautas de la comunidad, es posible que lo destituyan por interrumpir la reunión que tiene lugar en las Cámaras del Consejo. Puede volver a unirse a la reunión, pero es posible que lo eliminen por cada violación de estos estándares de la comunidad.
La función de chat estará deshabilitada para todas las Reuniones del Ayuntamiento en Zoom.
AFFIDAVIT • DECLARACIÓN JURADA
IT IS HEREBY CERTIFIED under the laws of the State of California that the above agenda was posted on the City's website (www.banningca.gov) as well as the Bulletin Board at Banning City Hall, located at 99 E Ramsey Street, Banning, CA 92220, at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting.
__________________________
Caroline Patton, Administrative City Clerk
Secretario adjunto de la ciudad
City Council - Special Meeting (Workshop) Agenda
March 11, 2025
2 PUBLIC NOTICE • NOTICIA PÚBLICA
Meeting Agendas and Notices
Interested in receiving email and/or text notifications of upcoming City Council meetings? Sign up for meeting notifications through the City's website. Pursuant to amended Government Code §54957.5(b), staff reports and other public records related to open session agenda items are available on the City's website (www.banningca.gov/).
Public Comment
Agenda Items
Any member of the public may address this meeting of the City Council on any item appearing on the agenda. A five-minute limitation shall apply to each member of the public and no member of the public shall be permitted to share their time with any other person.
Non-Agenda Items
Any member of the public may address this meeting of the City Council on any item which does not appear on the regular meeting agenda but is of interest to the general public and is an item upon which the City Council may act. A three-minute limitation shall apply to each member of the public and no member shall be permitted to share their time with any other person. No action shall be taken, nor discussion held by the City Council, on any item which does not appear on the agenda, unless the action is otherwise authorized in accordance with the provisions of subdivision (b) of §54954.2 of the Government Code.
Special Assistance/Accessibility Requests
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any member of the public may request that the agenda and agenda packet be mailed to them. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting (such as translation services), please contact the City Clerk's Office. Advanced notification of at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will allow the city to make arrangements to ensure your accessibility.
¿Necesita servicios de traducción para participar? Contacto Oficina del Secretario de la Ciudad.
CONTACT • CONTACTO
City Clerk's Office | 951-922-3102 | [email protected] 99 East Ramsey Street, Banning, California 92220
City Council - Special Meeting (Workshop) Agenda
March 11, 2025
3 CITY OF BANNING
STAFF REPORT
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Robert Fisher, Acting City Manager
PREPARED BY: Caroline Patton, Administrative City Clerk MEETING DATE: March 11, 2025
SUBJECT: Historic Preservation Commission Interviews for Positions 1 through 5 RECOMMENDATION:
Conduct interviews to fill Historic Preservation Commission vacancies in Positions 1 through 5.
BACKGROUND:
The Historic Preservation Commission's responsibilities are governed by Chapter 17.58 of the Municipal Code (attached here in full). The Commission will meet monthly to identify historic sites in Banning and recommend that Historic designation be applied to property.
The Historic Preservation Commission is established in Banning Municipal Code Section 2.46 (attached here in full). It states there will be five members with staggered, four-year terms. Two initial terms (Positions 1 and 2) will only be two-year terms.
Initial recruitment began in June 2024. No applications were received. A renewed push for applicants began in December 2024. The application was promoted on the City's social media platforms and in the Record Gazette's February 21, 2025 edition. The deadline to submit applications was February 28, 2025.
JUSTIFICATION:
Six applications were received from qualified individuals and are up for consideration:
Campbell, Gabrielle
Fudala, Trina
Lamb, Bill
Lopez, Ezikio
Ortega, Vincent
Santana, Marco
Staff recommends asking each applicant three interview questions:
1. Provide your background, experience and qualifications to serve on the City of Banning's Historic Preservation Commission.
2. What do you believe is the purpose of the Historic Preservation Commission, and what knowledge do you consider important for serving on this Commission
3. Please describe your familiarity with the designation process for historic resources at the local level and the role of the Historic Preservation Commission in this process.
FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
4 ALTERNATIVES:
N/A
BUDGETED?:
No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT:
No
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Banning, CA Code of Ordinances 17.58.pdf
2. Banning, CA Code of Ordinances 2.46.pdf
3. HPC Applications Combined.pdf
5 Chapter 17.58 - HISTORIC PRESERVATION
17.58.10 - Purpose and intent.
The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare by providing for the identification, protection, enhancement, perpetuation, and use of historic resources, such as buildings, structures, sites, and places that reflect special elements of the city's architectural, artistic, cultural, historical, and social heritage. This chapter intends to safeguard the city's historic resources; enhance the city's value as an attractive, historic community; and integrate the preservation of historic resources and information about such resources into the land management and development process. (Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.20 - Area of application.
This chapter shall apply to all historic resources, publicly and privately owned within the corporate limits of the city.
(Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.30 - Definitions.
As applicable to this chapter, the following words and phrases shall be defined as follows:
Historic resource is a property, structure, site, improvement or natural feature, including any associated landscaping, that has been designated by the historic preservation commission and included on the registry of historic resources.
Ordinary maintenance and repair is routine work that does not, by law, require a permit; involves regular, customary, or usual care of an existing building, structure, or object for the purpose of preserving said property in a safe and sanitary condition; and does not involve a change in design, material, or appearance.
Resource is a property, structure, site, improvement or natural feature, including any associated landscaping.
Substantial alteration is any alteration of any historic resource, or part thereof, which so changes the resource as to remove, alter, destroy, lessen, or detract from its historical value or character, but does not include ordinary maintenance and repair work.
(Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
6 A.
1. 2.
3. 4.
B.
A.
B.
C.
17.58.40 - Historic designation criteria.
For the purposes of this chapter, a resource may be designated a historic resource if, following the process in Section 17.58.50, the city council, upon recommendation from the historic resources commission determines it satisfies any of the following requirements:
The resource is the first, last, only, or most significant historical property of its type in the city.
The resource is associated with an individual person or group having significant influence on the history or development of the city.
The resource is an example or contains an example of a period, style, architectural movement, or construction of historical, aesthetic, or architectural interest.
The resource is a part of, or contributes aesthetically to, the historical heritage of the city.
The city council and the historic resources commission may consider age of a resource when determining whether any of the factors in this section are satisfied. However, age alone is not determinative of a resource's historical significance.
(Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.50 - Procedure for identification and designation of historic resource; notice of sale or transfer.
A resource shall be identified, and if owner consent is provided, designated as a historic property by the city council, upon the recommendation of the historic preservation commission in the following manner:
Identification and initiation of designation. The owner of the resource, or a resident of the city, may apply to the historic preservation commission to designate a resource as historic.
Applications by owners and residents shall be accompanied by such historical and architectural information as required by applicable forms made available by the community development director or designee to make an informed recommendation, and the application fee in an amount set by resolution of the city council. The historic preservation commission may also identify properties for consideration of designation on its own motion.
Owner consent required. An application, or identification by the commission, for designation shall include written consent of the resource owner. If owner consent is not obtained, the identified resource will not be considered for designation and inclusion in the register of historic resources.
Inventory of identified resources. The commission shall maintain a list of resources identified by the commission, including those for which a designation application has been submitted but owner consent to such designation has not been obtained. The list shall include any relevant public information for the identified resources and shall be made available to the public, except for any information exempt from disclosure under state law, including, without limitation, records of Native American graves, cemeteries, sacred places, features and objects 7 D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
exempt from disclosure pursuant to California Government Code Section 7927.000 and the California Code of Regulations Title 14, Section 15120(d). Inclusion of a resource on the inventory does not trigger any requirements by or restrictions on the owner of the resource under this chapter.
Delay of work pending designation determination. No alteration, demolition, or removal of resources for which the owner's consent to designation has been obtained shall be allowed until the designation determination is made by the commission.
Public hearing. The commission shall schedule a public hearing on all proposed designations for which the owner of the resource has consented. If an application for designation originates from a resource owner or a city resident, the public hearing shall be held within ninety days of the commission's receipt of a complete application.
Notice of hearing. Notice of the date, place, time, and purpose of the public hearing shall be given by first class mail to applicants, owners, and occupants of the resource and to property owners within three hundred feet of the resource at least ten days prior to the date of the public hearing and shall be advertised once in a newspaper of general circulation at least ten days before the public hearing. Additional methods of notice may be provided in any other manner deemed desirable and practicable.
Commission recommendations. After the public hearing, the commission shall make a recommendation in writing to the city council on whether to approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the application for designation and set forth the reasons for the decision based on the criteria in Section 17.58.40. The commission shall specify which part or parts of the resource it recommends be included in the city's register of historic resources.
City council review. The commission shall notify the city clerk of the commission's recommendation, who shall set the matter for public hearing at a city council meeting. Notice of the public hearing before the city council shall be provided in the same manner as Section
17.58.50.E. After the city council's public hearing on the matter, the city council shall by resolution affirm, modify, or reject the commission's recommendation regarding whether the resource should be designated a historic resource based on the criteria in Section 17.85.40. If the city council designates a resource as a historic resource, the commission shall enter the historic resource in the city's register of historic resources. The register shall contain a description of each resource, the reason(s) for its inclusion in the register, and an inventory detailing those parts or characteristics of the resource which are being classified as historic.
Copies of the register shall be available to the public.
Notice of designation. Notice of the designation shall be sent to applicants and owners of the designated resource. Within thirty days of receipt of the notice of designation, the owner shall have recorded in the office of the county recorder that said resource has been designated a historical resource and is subject to all restrictions applicable to such resource under this 8 J.
K.
A.
B.
C.
D.
code. Failure to send any notice to owners whose address is not a matter of public record shall not invalidate any proceedings in connection with a designation and failure of an owner to record the designation shall not affect the application of any provisions of this chapter.
Amendment or rescission. Designation of a historic resource may be rescinded or amended in the same manner and procedure as for designation. A designation may be rescinded if the applicant presents facts clearly demonstrating to the satisfaction of the city council, upon recommendation of the historic preservation commission, that the failure to remove the resource from the register of historic resources would cause immediate and substantial hardship (pursuant to the standards in Section 17.58.80) to the owner of the resource which was not reasonably foreseeable at the time the resource was placed on the register of historic resources.
Notice of transfer. Owner, or their legal representatives, assignees, or heirs shall give written notice to the historic preservation commission of the sale or transfer of ownership of any designated historic resource within ten days of the sale or transfer. (Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.60 - Certificate of appropriateness for demolition, substantial alternation, or removal.
Certificate of appropriateness required. Except as provided in Sections 17.58.80 or 17.58.90, it is unlawful for any person to demolish, remove, substantially alter, or engage in any work on a historic resource without first notifying the community development department of the resource's status as a registered historic resource and without first having applied and been granted a certificate of appropriateness from the city council, upon recommendation of the historic preservation committee for such work pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.
Applications. An owner of a historic resource may request a certificate of appropriateness by filing a written application with the community development department on a form provided by the department and including all required information and payment of applicable fees. The community development director shall refer the application to the commission for review.
Public hearing. The historic preservation commission shall hold a public hearing on an application for a certificate of appropriateness within sixty days of receipt of referral from the community development department. Any interested person or persons shall be allowed to appear in person or by petition at the hearing on the matter. The time limits in this section shall be extended by the community development director when necessary to comply with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), with the written consent of the owner, or to allow city staff an additional period of time not exceeding thirty days in which to analyze information submitted to the city at or near the end of the sixty day period in which to act on the application. A public hearing shall be scheduled and notice provided per this article and CEQA where applicable. 9 E.
F.
G.
1. 2.
3. 4.
Notice of hearing. Notice of the date, place, time, and purpose of the public hearing shall be given by first class mail to applicants, owners, and occupants of the resource and to property owners within three hundred feet of the resource at least ten days prior to the date of the public hearing and shall be advertised once in a daily newspaper of general circulation at least ten days before the public hearing.
Notice may also be given in any other manner deemed desirable and practicable.
Commission recommendation. After close of the public hearing, the historic preservation commission shall make a recommendation in writing to the city council regarding the approval, modification, or rejection of the proposed demolition, removal, or substantial alteration of the historic resource pursuant to the standards in Subsection G of this section.
City council review. The historic preservation commission shall notify the city clerk of the commission's recommendations, who shall set the matter for public hearing at a city council meeting. Notice of the public hearing before the city council shall be provided in the same manner as Subsection D of this section. Upon review of the commission's recommendation, the city council may grant, deny, or modify the requested permit pursuant to the standard in Subsection G of this section.
Standards for review. Except as provided in Section 17.58.80, the historic preservation commission shall only recommend approval, and the city council shall only approve, a permit for the destruction, removal, or substantial alteration of a historic resource if the commission or the city council finds the proposed work will neither adversely affect the exterior architectural features of the resource nor adversely affect the character or historical, architectural, or aesthetic interest, character defining elements, or value of the resource. In evaluating applications for demolition, removal, or substantial alteration of a historic resource, the commission and the city council shall consider the following:
Consistency with the architectural style, design, arrangement, texture, materials, color, and character defining elements of the historic resource.
Consistency with the U.S. Department of the Interior National Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring & Reconstructing Historic Buildings, as may be amended from time to time.
The goals and policies of this chapter.
The goals and policies of the general plan, any applicable specific plan, and the regulations of the city.
(Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.70 - Hardship showing.
10 A.
B.
1. 2.
C.
1. 2.
D.
A.
1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6.
An owner of a historic resource may apply for a hardship permit for the demolition, removal, or substantial alteration of a historic resource that may adversely affect the exterior architectural features of the resource or adversely affect the character or historical, architectural, or aesthetic interest or value of the resource. Such application shall include facts and information clearly demonstrating a substantial hardship pursuant to Subsection C of this Section and that such substantial hardship was not reasonably foreseeable.
City Council may approve a hardship permit if, upon recommendation of the historic preservation committee, the city council finds:
The failure to receive the permit would cause immediate and substantial hardship to the owner of the resource.
That immediate and substantial hardship was not reasonably foreseeable at the time the resource was placed on the register of historic resources.
For the purposes of this chapter, an immediate and substantial hardship exists when the preservation of the integrity of the historic resource:
Is infeasible from a technical, mechanical, or structural standpoint, and/or Would leave the resource with no reasonable economic value because it would require an unreasonable expenditure considering current market value, permitted uses of the resource, the value of transferable development rights and the cost of compliance with applicable local, state, and federal codes.
The historic preservation commission and the city council may request the applicant provide material evidence supporting the claim of immediate and substantial hardship. (Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.80 - Exemptions.
The following do not require review a certificate of appropriateness:
Ordinary maintenance and repair.
Demolition, removal, repair, alteration, or other work the community development director determines is immediately necessary to protect the public health and safety and general welfare. The director shall notify the historic preservation commission in writing within five days of issuing any emergency approval.
Alterations to the interior of any structure, including designated structures.
Landscaping, unless landscaping is specifically designated as part of a historical resource.
Painting of a building.
11 B.
A.
B.
C.
Demolition, removal, or substantial alteration of a noncommercial property owned by a religiously affiliated association or corporation not organized for profit provided the criteria in Government Code Section 37361(c) are met, including objection by the religiously affiliated association or corporation and demonstration of a substantial hardship.
From time to time the Commission and City Council may add specific guidelines or manuals for reference by Staff and Resource owners.
(Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
17.58.90 - Enforcement.
For any action or development covered by this chapter that is undertaken without the issuance of a permit or that is not in full compliance with the terms and conditions of a permit issued pursuant to this chapter, the building official shall order the action stopped by written notice.
It shall be a misdemeanor for any person to carry out any work in violation of such a stop work order or in violation of this chapter.
In addition to other penalties, if a registered historic resource is demolished without a permit required by this chapter, no building permit shall be issued for any use of the site for five years. (Ord. No. 1593, § 3, 10-24-23)
12 A.
B.
C.
1. 2.
3. 4.
D.
1. 2.
E.
Chapter 2.46 - HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
2.46.10 - Declaration of existence.
The city recognizes and establishes the historic preservation commission, which shall serve in an advisory capacity to the city council and make recommendations and determinations relating to the designation, preservation, protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of the city's historical properties. (Ord. No. 1593, § 2, 10-24-23)
2.46.20 - Membership; term and vacancies.
Commission. The historic preservation commission shall consist of five members at large.
Appointment and removal. After receiving applications from those interested, along with their credentials, the mayor shall appoint the members of the historic preservation commission subject to the city council's approval and confirmation of each appointment to one of five numbered positions: Position 1, Position 2, Position 3, Position 4, and Position 5. Members shall serve at the pleasure of the city council and may be removed at any time by a majority vote of a quorum of the city council.
Member qualifications. Members of the historic preservation commission shall:
Have a demonstrated interest, competence, or knowledge in historic preservation and the local history, and pre-history, of the City of Banning. Members who meet the Secretary of Interior's Historic Preservation Professional Qualifications Standards are preferred.
Reside within the corporate limits of the city.
Serve without compensation.
Not be a member of any other standing commission, board, or committee of the city nor an employee thereof.
Term.
Members shall serve a term of four years, which shall be staggered every two years concurrent with city elections. In order to stagger the terms of the commission, the initial terms for commission member Position 1 and Position 2 shall be for two years, and all subsequent terms of Positions 1 and 2 shall be for four years. The initial terms and all subsequent terms for commission member Position 3, Position 4, and Position 5 shall be for four years.
Members shall remain a member until a successor is appointed. 13 A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Absences. Any member who is unexcused for two consecutive regular meetings or six meetings within a 12- month period, whether the six meetings are excused or not, will be deemed to have resigned their position and the city council may appoint a new member in the same manner as the initial appointment under subsection B of this section to serve the remaining term of the resigned member. (Ord. No. 1593, § 2, 10-24-23)
2.46.30 - Organization.
Officers. The commission shall, at the first regularly scheduled meeting of each calendar year, annually elect a chairperson for the term of one year, and such other officers as the commission may deem advisable.
Meeting times and places. The city council shall designate the time and place for the inaugural meeting of the commission. Thereafter, the commission shall designate the time and place for its meetings. Meeting places and times shall be noticed in accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act and the commission shall have regular meeting dates.
Commission rules. The commission shall adopt such rules and regulations for its own organization as are necessary to carry out its duties and function. The commission shall keep records of all its actions and proceedings.
Public meetings. As the commission is created and appointed by the city council, members of the commission and all proceedings of the commission be subject to the Ralph M. Brown Act.
Staff Support. City community development staff and the city attorney's office will provide support to the commission.
(Ord. No. 1593, § 2, 10-24-23)
2.46.40 - Duties.
The commission shall have the following duties:
Conduct or cause to be conducted a comprehensive survey to identify potential historic resources.
Promote public interest in and understanding of historical resources and the preservation thereof.
Consult with and advise public officials and agencies; civic, educational, professional and other organizations; and citizens generally, in relation to the preservation of historical resources.
Consider all inquiries and requests for the preservation or cataloging of historic resources located within the city limits.
Compile and maintain the inventory of identified resources. 14 F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
Compile and maintain a current register of historic resources.
Consider requests by property owners for nontechnical advice on proposed work on historic resources.
Make recommendations to city council on whether resources should be designated as historic resources.
Make recommendations to city council on whether to grant, condition, or deny certificates of appropriateness and hardship permits for the demolition, removal, or substantial alternation of any historic resource.
Develop and recommend to the city council standards, including design guidelines, to be used by the commission and the city council in reviewing applications for designation and permits for the demolition, removal, or substantial alternation of any historic resource.
Perform such other duties as are specified by ordinance of the city council. (Ord. No. 1593, § 2, 10-24-23)
2.46.50 - Terminology.
All terms defined in section 17.58.30 shall have the same meaning herein. (Ord. No. 1593, § 2, 10-24-23)
15 Gabrielle Campbell
(951) 634-2066
[email protected]
1166 Linda Vista Drive, Banning, CA 92220
X
Maintenance, Operations, &
Transportation Secretary Banning Unified School District X
X
I have a deep love for history and my community. Having lived in Banning my entire life, I have always been fascinated by the stories and individuals who have shaped our city.
I have been employed with the Banning Unified School District for the past four years, a workplace rich in local history.
Prior to that, I owned and operated a construction management company in Yucaipa for over 20 years, gaining valuable experience in project coordination and leadership.
In addition, I served as a board member of the Banning Stagecoach Days Association from 2014 to 2021, holding roles as both secretary and vice chair. During this time, I was responsible for organizing the annual Stagecoach Parade, ensuring the celebration of our local heritage continued successfully each year.
Currently, I am actively involved in community organizations that focus on local history and service, including:
•San Gorgonio Pass Rotary Association (Member)
•Banning Library District (Board Member)
These roles allow me to study and engage with the history of our area while contributing to the preservation of its stories and artifacts.
53 years
16 My passion for historical storytelling and preservation makes me eager to contribute to the HP Commission.
I understand the importance of research, conservation, and sharing historical narratives with the community.
Additionally, I understand the complexities of handling historical documents, artifacts, and artwork, ensuring they are preserved and appreciated for future generations.
I enjoy focusing on how the past has shaped the present and believe in celebrating the people, places, and ideas that have built our community. This interest drives my desire to educate and engage others in learning about our shared history. I would be honored to be part of a team dedicated to preserving and promoting Banning's rich heritage.
My understanding of research, historical preservation, and community engagement are key traits that make me a strong candidate for this commission. I have experience handling and preserving historical artifacts and documents ensuring their continued protection and accessibility.
Additionally, my background in organizing large-scale community events, such as the Stagecoach Parade, has given me experience in coordinating efforts to celebrate and promote local history. Through my work in various community organizations, I have developed strong leadership, communication, and project management skills, which I believe will be beneficial to the commission’s mission.
I am really excited for this opportunity!
2/28/25
17 18
19 20
21 Please see attached PDF for my typed responses.
24 Years
Assistant Professor of English Mt. San Jacinto College
581 N. 5th St. Banning, CA. 92220
[email protected]
951-692-2585
Ezikio López
22 Please see attached PDF for my typed responses.
Please see attached PDF for my typed responses.
23 López 1
Ezikio López
2/28/25
APPLICATION TO SERVE ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMISSION WRITTEN RESPONSES
1. Per the Municipal Code, members of the commission shall “have a demonstrated interest, competence, or knowledge in historic preservation and the local history, and pre-history, of the City of Banning.” Please tell us about your background, including education, work, and volunteer experience, civic involvement, and other experience relevant to these requirements.
I am a Mexican-American Assistant Professor of English with deep roots in our community. My educational journey began here in Banning, where I attended middle school at Susan B. Coombs Elementary SChool before circumstances led to my attending high school in Beaumont. This transition occurred when Coombs was changed to an Intermediate School, and as the child of a hardworking single mother and grandparents who worked full-time, the practical support of family friends made attending the neighboring school necessary, though I've always wished I could have remained in Banning’s educational system. My academic path continued at Moreno Valley Community College before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley, where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in English. I then pursued graduate education, completing my Master of Arts degree in Rhetoric and Writing Studies, and am currently working toward my doctoral degree in Rhetoric and Cultural Composition from Syracuse University. My commitment to community service is demonstrated through extensive volunteer work with respected organizations. I've served as both a Peer Ambassador and Ambassador for the renowned Puente Project supporting high school and community college students during their summer programs. Additionally, I've been a facilitator for the well known Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project that hosts high school students for week-long experiences designed to 24 López 2
encourage pursuit of higher education. During my own high school years, I volunteered with Beaumont’s Rotaract club, further developing my commitment to community service. In my professional capacity, I extend my dedication to community engagement by serving as an advisor for two campus clubs, where I guide students in giving back to their communities. One of my signature teaching assignments involves students identifying community issues, researching potential solutions, and presenting actionable plans that encourage civic involvement and awareness. This approach not only educates students about research methodologies but also instills values of community responsibility and advocacy. This combination of academic training in research and documentation, personal investment in our city's wellbeing, and demonstrated commitment to community service through volunteer work provides me with a robust foundation for serving on the Historic Preservation Commission. My experience researching, documenting, and teaching others to engage with community issues directly aligns with the Commission's focus on preserving and promoting our city's rich historical legacy.
1. What unique skills and traits would you bring to the commission?
As an Assistant Professor of English at Mt. San Jacinto College, I would bring valuable research, analytical, and communication skills to the Banning Historic Preservation Committee.
My academic training has equipped me with exceptional abilities to document, analyze, and preserve historical narratives—skills directly applicable to the committee's work in safeguarding our city's cultural heritage. Growing up in Banning has given me a deep personal connection to its history and development. This connection evolved into professional interest through my graduate studies, where I specialized in archival research methodologies. My dissertation work in my Composition and Cultural Rhetoric program, focuses on the multicultural and multi layered experiences of graduate teaching instructors through an autoethnographic approach. My work demonstrates my commitment to preserving diverse historical perspectives—a crucial consideration in comprehensive historic preservation. My professional work involves teaching college students research methodologies and documentary practices. I regularly guide students in documenting community histories and creating narratives that connect present communities with 25 López 3
their historical roots. This experience directly aligns with the committee's need for members with "demonstrated interest, competence, and knowledge in historic preservation and local history." Beyond academic qualifications, I bring exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail—traits essential for preservation work. I've demonstrated these qualities through my ongoing archival research projects and dissertation development, which require rigorous documentation standards similar to those needed in historic preservation.
I've actively documented my own family's history in our city since their arrival in 1995, preserving personal narratives that contribute to the broader preservation of our community's development. This practice reflects my understanding that preservation extends beyond buildings to include the lived experiences that shape a community's identity. I also meet the Secretary of Interior's Historic Preservation Professional Qualifications Standards that is highlighted through my academic training in research methodologies, documentary practices, and cultural analysis, which would be valuable to the committee's mission. My commitment to thoroughness, respect for historical integrity, and passion for our Banning’s history and heritage would make me a strong asset to the Historic Preservation Committee.
2. Why are you interested in serving on the Historic Preservation Commission? What do you hope to achieve during your term of service?
I am deeply passionate about Banning, its growth, its histories, and the unique qualities that define it. Having grown up here, I've frequently encountered criticism from residents of neighboring communities who seemed quick to diminish our city's value. As a lifelong resident, I've consistently challenged these perceptions, advocating for people to see our community through the lens of someone who recognizes its true character and worth. My interest in serving on the Historic Preservation Commission stems from my belief that much of this criticism arises from a lack of understanding about our city's rich historical significance and cultural beauty. I hope to address this gap by documenting and creating accessible projects that both our residents and neighboring communities can engage with and learn from. During my term, I aim to develop initiatives that involve our city's youth in archival work, teaching them the importance of preserving our collective history. One specific project I envision is creating multimedia content 26 López 4
for the city's social media platforms—a contemporary approach that would engage diverse age groups and make our history more accessible to the public. I also hope to establish intergenerational programs that bring community elders together with young people. As one of the primary caregivers for my grandparents, I understand the value of creating spaces where seniors can gather and share their experiences. These programs would foster meaningful connections: elders would share their personal histories in our city, while youth would learn from their wisdom and be inspired to advocate for resources that support long-term community initiatives. My academic background equips me with the skills to write grant proposals to secure funding for these programs, ensuring their sustainability and impact. The dedication I've witnessed in my grandparents—particularly through their active community-building within their Iglesia Emmanuel A.D. in Banning, one of Banning’s longest standing multilingual churches—inspires my commitment to give back to this beautiful city that will always be my home. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire pride in our city's identity and to encourage others to contribute to its ongoing story. By preserving and celebrating our history, we can shape a more informed and appreciative understanding of our community, both among residents and our neighboring cities.
27 28
29 Historic Preservation Commission Application Page 1 of 2 Name
Phone
Email Address
Address
Are you currently employed? Yes No
Position Company
Length of Residency in Banning
Are you a registered voter? Yes No
Do you meet the Secretary of Interior's Historic Preservation Professional Qualifications Standards? Yes No
1. Per the Municipal Code, members of the commission shall “have a demonstrated interest, competence, or knowledge in historic preservation and the local history, and pre-history, of the City of Banning.” Please tell us about your background, including education, work, and volunteer experience, civic involvement, and other experience relevant to these requirements.
APPLICATION TO SERVE ON HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION This application is to fill five new positions on the Historic Preservation Commission. The term of office will be based on the position. Members appointed to ositions 1 and 2 shall serve through January 31, 2027. The remaining three ositions will serve through January 31, 2029. In accordance with Banning’s City Council Resolution 2012-67, if selected you will be required to submit to a criminal background investigation, including LiveScan fingerprinting prior to your formal appointment. Applications are due to the City Clerk’s Office no later than Friday, at 5:00 p.m.
Born and raised in Banning, I developed a deep appreciation for the city’s history and architecture. I hold a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Education from UC Riverside. With seven years in nonprofit management, I’ve connected at-risk residents to housing, social services, and workforce opportunities. At Faith in Action, I secured over $350,000 in grants for community programs. I co-founded Banning’s Future Fellowship, a youth-led initiative promoting leadership and civic awareness. My work includes advocating for public policy work, historic revitalization, adaptive reuse, and balanced growth to ensure preservation fosters community pride and sustainability. 31 years
Program Director Nonprofit
957 E George St, Banning, CA 92220
[email protected]
951-333-9921
Marco Santana
30 Historic Preservation Commission Application Page 2 of 2
2. What unique skills and traits would you bring to the commission?
3. Why are you interested in serving on the Historic Preservation Commission? What do you hope to achieve during your term of service?
City Clerk’s Office
99 E. Ramsey Street
PO Box 998
Banning, CA 92220
Please return to: City of Banning Return by:
5:00 p.m.
Or email to: [email protected] Remember to sign your application.
Signature Date
I bring a strong combination of leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement skills that align well with the mission of the Historic Preservation Commission. My ability to analyze policies, secure funding for community initiatives, and build partnerships with local stakeholders will contribute to preserving and enhancing Banning’s historical resources. Additionally, my background in engineering and project management allows me to approach preservation efforts with a technical and problem-solving mindset, ensuring that recommendations are both feasible and aligned with best practices in historic preservation. My deep ties to the community and understanding of Banning’s cultural heritage provide valuable insight into preservation priorities that align with the city’s long-term development goals.
Banning’s historical and cultural landmarks are vital to the city’s identity, and I am committed to ensuring they are documented, preserved, and integrated into community development. My goal is to strengthen partnerships between the commission, local historical societies, and community organizations to enhance preservation efforts while advocating for the integration of historic preservation into city planning and economic development strategies. I aim to identify and designate new historic resources, ensuring they receive proper recognition and protection.
Additionally, I want to increase public engagement by leveraging technology to provide online access to historical information and virtual listening tours, making Banning’s rich heritage more accessible and engaging.
31 CITY OF BANNING
STAFF REPORT
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: Robert Fisher, Acting City Manager
PREPARED BY: Caroline Patton, Administrative City Clerk MEETING DATE: March 11, 2025
SUBJECT: Banning Youth Council Interview
RECOMMENDATION:
Conduct interview for Banning Youth Council.
BACKGROUND:
The Banning Youth Council's responsibilities are governed by Chapter 2.42 of the Municipal Code (attached here in full).
The Banning Youth Council is as an advisory board to the City Council established under Chapter 2.42 of the Banning Municipal Code (BMC). The purpose of the Youth Council is to provide City youth with a vehicle to learn about government, participate in the process of city government, represent and articulate the needs of City youth, as well as advise the City Council on matters affecting the youth and teen population, especially City programs relating to youth and teens.
The Youth Council is composed of five to nine members who are appointed for two-year terms that can be extended once. The City Council appointed four members to the Youth Council at their February 27, 2024 meeting, and an additional three members at their March 26, 2024 meeting.
There are currently two vacancies on the Youth Council. There was no specific recruitment process for these vacancies since under the Code, the Youth Council consists of "five to nine members." JUSTIFICATION:
One application was received for the Banning Youth Council and is up for consideration:
Sara McDermott
Staff recommends asking each applicant the same six interview questions as previous appointments:
1. Why would you like to be on the Banning Youth Council?
2. What kind of work or volunteering have you done in the community or school?
3. What other sports or clubs have you participated in?
4. What do you feel are the biggest challenges for teenagers in Banning today?
5. What is your proudest accomplishment so far?
6. We have concluded the interview. Do you have any questions for us? FISCAL IMPACT:
N/A
ALTERNATIVES:
32 N/A
BUDGETED?:
No
CONTRACT/AGREEMENT:
No
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Banning, CA Code of Ordinances 2.42.pdf
2. Application_Youth-Council---McDermott.pdf
33 A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
Chapter 2.42 - YOUTH COUNCIL
2.42.010 - Established—Purpose.
There is hereby established a youth council of the city. The youth council shall serve as an advisory board to the city council. The purpose of the youth council is to provide city youth with a vehicle to learn about government, participate in the process of city government, represent and articulate the needs of city youth, and advise the city council on matters affecting the youth and teen population, especially city programs relating to youth and teens.
(Ord. No. 1590, § 2, 7-11-23)
2.42.020 - Duties and responsibilities.
The youth council shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
The youth council shall foster increased youth involvement in the affairs of city government.
The youth council shall study problems and hold forums on issues, activities, and concerns of city youth.
The youth council shall comment on existing or proposed legislation, ordinances, resolutions, and policies that impact city youth.
The youth council shall present methods to resolve youth-related conflicts between youths and between youths and adults.
The youth council shall recommend the implementation of community programs to improve the lives of youth.
The youth council shall monitor programs and policies that affect youth to ensure they are achieving the intended results.
The youth council shall work with other youth organizations in the city to collaborate on shared issues and interests.
The youth council shall submit to the city council an annual report of its activities prior to the end of the school year for the Banning unified school district.
The youth council shall utilize social networking sites and/or technology to engage and inform city youth of important city activities.
The youth council shall participate in an annual workshop that will introduce the members of the youth council to the city council meeting agenda process, a mock city council meeting, and the role of city officials.
34 1.
2. 3.
L.
A.
1. 2.
3. B.
C.
D.
E.
1. 2.
At the first regular meeting following appointment of members, the youth council shall select a chairperson and vice-chairperson from among its members. The chairperson and vice-chairperson shall serve for one term.
The chairperson shall preside at the regular and special meetings of the youth council.
The chairperson shall serve as the youth council's liaison to the city council.
The vice-chairperson shall assume the duties of the chairperson in their absence.
The chairperson of the youth council shall attend the regular meetings of the city council and serve as a non-voting liaison to the city council.
(Ord. No. 1590, § 2, 7-11-23)
2.42.030 - Qualifications; composition and compensation; appointment; term; vacancies.
Qualifications. Members of the youth council:
Shall be residents of the city;
Shall be high school students in the 9 , 10 , 11 , or 12 grades; and Shall demonstrate, in their application, a sincere interest and motivation to work for the community.
Composition and compensation. The youth council shall consist of a minimum of five members and maximum of nine members who shall not receive compensation.
Appointment. The city council shall appoint members of the youth council. Applications shall be made available and the closing date announced by July 1 of each year.
Term. Youth council members shall serve two-year terms. Members may be appointed for a subsequent one-year term, provided that no member shall serve more than three years. Youth council members shall serve at the pleasure of the city council and may be removed at any time by a majority vote of the entire council.
Vacancies.
Any member who is unexcused for two consecutive regular meetings of the youth council or six meetings within a twelve-month period, whether the six meetings are excused or not, will be deemed to have resigned their office and the city council shall appoint a new member to serve in the resigned youth council member's place for the remainder of their term.
To be excused from any such meeting, a member shall notify the staff liaison, at least fortyeight hours prior to any such meeting. If a member is unable to attend due to illness, injury, or family matters, a statement by the member at the next regular meeting of the youth council shall constitute an excused absence.
(Ord. No. 1590, § 2, 7-11-23; Ord. No. 1601, § 2, 3-26-24) th th th th
35 A.
B.
1. 2.
3. C.
D.
2.42.040 - Meeting times and place; conduct of meetings; rules of procedure; staff liaison.
Meeting times and place. The youth council shall meet on the first Tuesday of each month, except the months of July and December, at a regular time established by resolution of the youth council, at the City Council Chambers located at 99 E. Ramsey Street.
Conduct of meetings.
The youth council shall be subject to the Brown Act.
A quorum of the youth council shall consist of a majority of the members (not including vacancies), whether the youth council is a five-, six-, seven-, eight-, or nine-member body at the time of a meeting. A quorum must be present in order for the youth council to hold a meeting.
A vote of the majority of members present constituting a quorum shall be required to constitute action taken by the youth council.
Rules of procedure. That certain "Manual of Procedural Guidelines for the Conduct of City Council and Constituent Body/Commission Meetings for the City of Banning" adopted on October 23, 2012, as may be amended from time to time (the "manual"), shall govern the conduct and procedures applicable to meetings of the youth council.
Staff liaison. The city manager shall designate the staff liaison to the youth council. The staff liaison to the youth council shall support the youth council in carrying out its purpose, duties, and responsibilities and provide facilities for meetings and other activities, as necessary. (Ord. No. 1590, § 2, 7-11-23; Ord. No. 1601, §§ 3, 4, 3-26-24) 36 Banning Youth Council Application Page 1 of 2
APPLICATION TO SERVE ON THE BANNING YOUTH COUNCIL
This application is to serve in one of nine positions on the new Banning Youth Council. The term of office for all positions are two years and are extendable by up to one year. The Banning Youth Council meets monthly on the First Tuesday of each month beginning at 5:00 p.m.
Name
Phone
Email Address
Address
What High School do you currently attend?
What grade are you in?
How long have you lived in Banning?
Are you able to commit to attend Council meetings on its regular meeting date? Yes No
Information requested below will be used by the City Council as a screening process to determine which applicants will be chosen to serve. Please do not submit supplemental materials.
1. Tell us about your background including education, extracurricular activities, volunteer experience, civic involvement, and other experience relative to this appointment?
37 Banning Youth Council Application Page 2 of 2
2. What unique skills and traits would you bring to the Banning Youth Council?
3. Why are you interested in serving on the Banning Youth Council?
4. If appointed to the Youth Council, what is a subject matter you would be interested in discussing about the City of Banning?
In accordance with Banning’s City Council Resolution 2012-67, if selected you will be required to submit to a criminal background investigation, including LiveScan fingerprinting prior to your formal appointment.
City Clerk’s Office
99 E. Ramsey Street
PO Box 998
Banning, CA 92220
Please return to: City of Banning
Or email to: [email protected] Remember to sign your application.
Signature Date
38