1 MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR MEETING
CITY OF BANNING, CALIFORNIA
June 10, 2025 Council Chambers
5:00 p.m. 99 E. Ramsey Street
In Chambers Banning, CA 92220
The following information comprises the minutes 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.
TELECOMMUTING LOCATION
Mayor Pro Tem Royce will be participating from a remote location where the public is invited to attend:
Lobby/Business Center, 160 Portal Lane, Sedona AZ 86336.
1. CALL TO ORDER – 5:01 p.m.
1.1 INVOCATION
Performed by Pastor Nathaniel Rodriguez of Infinite Center
1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1.3 ROLL CALL
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT: Council Member Cynthia Barrington Mayor Sheri Flynn
Council Member Leroy Miller
Mayor Pro Tem Richard Royce
Council Member Colleen Wallace
COUNCIL MEMBERS ABSENT: None
OTHERS PRESENT: John O. Pinkney, City Attorney
Robert Fisher, Acting City Manager
Vickie Sellers, City Clerk
Sandra Calderon, Acting Administrative City Clerk
2. AGENDA APPROVAL
2.1 AGENDA APPROVAL
Mayor Flynn pulled item 6.1 from the agenda, and item 10 moved to after item 5.4 and before item 5.5
2 Motion made to approve the agenda made by Councilmember Barrington and seconded by Councilmember Miller. Motion passes 5-0.
3. PRESENTATIONS
3.1 Presentation by the Stagecoach Days Association on the 2024 Stagecoach Days Amy Pippenger, Chair of Stagecoach Days Association, provided the presentation.
Council questions:
Councilmember Miller thanked Amy and the committee for continuing the tradition in the community of Banning
Mayor Pro Tem Royce echoed Council Member Miller’s comments and thanked them for all their hard work.
Councilmember Barrington thanked the committee for their hard work. She mentioned wanting to see the event go citywide again, noting it is a way for everyone to come together to celebrate and have a good time.
3.2 Presentation by Members of the City of Banning Youth Council Amanda Morgan, Adan Fragas, and Justin Smith presented.
Council questions:
Mayor Pro Tem Royce thanked staff and youth council members for their hard Work.
Councilmember Miller noted that there are bright young people in the community and complemented their hard work.
Councilmember Barrington thanked the youth council members and congratulated both outgoing members on their college journeys.
Councilmember Wallace thanked the Youth Council and gave congratulations.
Mayor Flynn congratulated the youth council members on all of their hard work, nothing that each will enjoy their college experience.
3.3 Recognition of Outgoing Banning Youth Council Members Mayor Flynn recognized the two outgoing members of the Youth Council.
4. REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
John Pinkney, Interim City Attorney
read the closed session items.
3 5. PUBLIC COMMENTS, CORRESPONDENCE, APPOINTMENTS, AND REPORTS
5. 1 PUBLIC COMMENTS
Bill Hobbs, Thanks the Youth Council for the presentation. He reminded the Council members that they represent a diverse group of constituents with varying political views. He encouraged elected officials to keep personal political opinions on their private platforms rather than shared or official pages, noting the current national climate is divisive. He emphasized respect for differing viewpoints and the importance of maintaining unity and professionalism in public communications.
Inge Schuler, reiterated that private fireworks are illegal and pose significant safety risks, including fire hazards, harm to pets, and challenges for residents with livestock. She emphasized the ongoing impact of illegal fireworks before and after the holiday, urged residents to take responsibility, and encouraged attendance at the City’s public fireworks display instead. She noted that while other cities have enforcement systems in place, addressing this issue remains a challenge for Banning and should be considered for future action.
Carlos Zapata, respectfully requested that the Council meeting not conclude before all agenda items and discussions are fully addressed. He also expressed pride in the young men on the youth council who had participated in the meeting prior. He also praised the Stagecoach Days Rodeo presentation, noting his personal connection to the rodeo community.
Harry Sullivan, stated that the Banning Municipal Airport is a long-standing, federally funded, self-supporting asset essential to public safety. He emphasized its role in emergency and weather-related landings, firefighting, and government aircraft operations, and its recent use during low visibility conditions. He urged the council to prioritize safety and keep the airport open.
Derrick, shared personal ties to Banning and noted concerns about no changes being made in the community after returning to care for his father. He encouraged the city to pursue local job opportunities alongside new housing developments so residents can live and work within the community rather than commute long distances.
David Kieffer, expressed appreciation for the council and emphasized the importance of mutual respect and compassion. He raised concerns about the proposed SWAG program element that discourages certain well-intended activities, questioning how this may impact faith-based and community outreach efforts such as providing food, showers, clothing, and other services to people experiencing homelessness. He urged Council to review the language and potential policy implications to ensure community partnerships and compassionate services are not negatively impacted.
Gloria Bell, asked clarifying questions regarding the SWAG contract, noting an understanding that the program costs approximately $48,000 per month under a month-tomonth agreement. She requested transparency on performance metrics and outcomes, including whether results from the first 30 days would be publicly reported or presented. She expressed concern about the cost and hourly compensation and emphasized the community’s interest.
4 Oleg Ivascheck, spoke and promoted the upcoming Chamber of Commerce Sunrise breakfast. He thanked City staff and Council for a successful good truck event, citing strong attendance, community engagement, and benefits to local businesses. He encouraged continued efforts to attract visitors and support economic activity.
Yessenia, expressed concerns about delays in obtaining a certificate of occupancy. Noting that despite completing all the necessary steps, she has not received a response from the City. She highlighted that the project would benefit banning by supporting youth arts. She requested a status update due to financial strain from the delay.
5. 2 CORRESPONDENCE
Vickie Sellers, read a letter into the record.
5.3 APPOINTMENTS
5.3.1. Planning Commission Appointments for Positions 4 and 5 Mayor Pro Tem Royce nominated David Ellis and seconded by Councilmember Barrington.
Motion fails 4-1.
Mayor Pro Tem Royce nominated Gerry Phelps and seconded by Councilmember Wallace Motion passes 5-0
Councilmember Wallace nominated Al Marshall and seconded by Councilmember Miller.
Motion passes 5-0.
5.3.2. Consideration of the Appointment of Two Members of the Banning City Council to a 2X2 Ad Hoc Committee for the Purpose of Discussing issues with the Larry Smith Correctional Facility in the City of Banning
Motion made by Councilmember Wallace to appoint Councilmember Miller and Barrington to the committee.
Motion passes 5-0.
5.4 CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilmember Barrington attended a 2x2 committee for truck routes with the cities of Beaumont and Calimesa. She also attended a 2x2 committee for a regional animal shelter, including Banning, Beaumont, Riverside County, and Calimesa.
Councilmember Miller met with RTA, where it was discussed to add more bus stands and signed a contract for maintenance
Mayor Pro Tem Royce attended a 2x2 committee to discuss fire service needs in the community.
Mayor Flynn reported attending a 2x2 committee for fire safety, a 2x2 for truck routes, and the 105th Cherry Festival Celebration.
5.5 CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Robert Fisher, Acting City Manager, provided the report. 5 5.6 CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT
John Pinkney, City Attorney, provided the report.
5.7 CITY TREASURER'S REPORT
Sue Savage, raised concerns about the City of Banning not adhering to its charter, specifically regarding the diminished role of the City Treasurer and reassignment of its duties.
She emphasized the need for greater financial transparency, regular reporting and accountability, urging City leadership to uphold legal mandates and better inform the public about city finances.
6. CONSENT ITEMS
The following items have been recommended for approval and will be acted upon simultaneously, unless a member of the City Council/Banning Utility Authority/Successor Agency Board wishes to remove an item for separate consideration.
Items pulled: 6.2, 6.4, 6.5, 6.7, 6.9
Mayor Flynn opened public comments for items not pulled.
Frank Connolly expressed concerns regarding the street sweeping contract, noting uncertainty about current costs, the contract exceeding the five-year term, and lack of updated cost information. He recommended going out to bid for a new contract to ensure competitive pricing and transparency .
Motion made to approve items 6.3, 6.6, 6.8 made by Councilmember Wallace and seconded by Councilmember Miller.
6.1 Approval of the Meeting Minutes for the February 14 and February 25, 2025 City Council
6.2 Consideration of Resolution 2025- 79, Approving Amendment No. 2 to the Services Agreement with Yunex, LLC in the Amount of $75,000 Extending the Term through FY 2027/2028 Citywide Traffic Signal Maintenance Services Art Vela, Public Works Director, provided the staff report.
Motion made to approve Resolution 2025-79 by Councilmember Wallace and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Royce
Motion passes 5-0.
6.3 Consideration of Resolution 2025-80, Approving the First Amendment to Extend the End Date of the Sole-Source Professional Services Agreement with VCS Environmental to Provide Wetland Permitting Consulting and Strategy Services to the City of Banning until June 30, 2026 with a Remaining Balance of $152,551
6.4 Consideration of a Fee Waiver Request Not-to-Exceed $5,370 for Stagecoach Days Association's Use of Dysart Park for Equestrian and Community Events (Other than "Stagecoach Days") to Benefit the Community
6 Council questions:
Councilmember Barrington brought forward the idea of leasing the property to the Stagecoach Days Association, asking if the MOUs would need to be written until there is a lease agreement.
Ralph Wright, Parks and Recreation Director provided a staff report.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
Amy Pippenger, voiced agreement with the parks and Recreation director, and reiterated creating a committee to discuss a lease agreement.
Mayor Flynn closed public comment.
6.5 Consideration of Resolution 2025-81, Approving a List of Projects to be Funded for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 by SB 1 “The Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017”
6.6 Consideration of Resolution 2025 -82, Approving the Sixth Amendment to the Street Sweeping Services Agreement with Sweeping Corp of America (SCA) for 2025/2026 under Sourcewell Contract #062421-SWP Increasing the Compensation in the amount of $149,352 for the Extended Term
6.7 Consideration of Resolution 2025-83, Approving a Renewed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Banning and the Stagecoach Days Association for the "Stagecoach Days" Event
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
Amy Pippenger, mentioned that the days before the event the Association is spending time cleaning up the park and then the days after are meant for tearing everything down.
The speaker, suggests that even organizers typically have about 30 days to plan and execute events and may already have access to necessary resources like generators. He recommended charging or requiring event committees, such as those hosting rodeos or races, to be responsible for providing their own equipment and covering related costs.
Juanita Diaz, mentioned that the event organizers are treated unfairly and inconsistent, with some groups facing stricter rules and fees while others get better deals. She believes that all community event should be supported equally.
Mayor Flynn closed public comment
Council discussion:
Councilmember Barrington noted that the MOU is in good standing with the Stagecoach Days Association. She confirmed whether 30 days is sufficient. 7 Mayor Pro Tem Royce asked how long a lease agreement would take. He mentioned that both parties are satisfied, but all he hears is that neither party is fully satisfied.
Councilmember Barrington mentioned being able to create a lease agreement from previous templates and forming an Ad Hoc committee.
Mayor Flynn mentioned that voting on the current item is important now and then coming back later with a lease agreement after it has been worked on. She also assigned Councilmember Barrington and Mayor Pro Tem..
Motion made to approve by Councilmember Wallace and seconded by Councilmember Barrington.
Motion passes 5-0.
6.8 Consideration of Resolution 2025- 84, Approving a License Agreement with the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council for the Use of the Girl Scout House Located in Repplier Park
6.9 Consideration of Resolution 2025-85, Approving the Installation of a Stop Sign and Establishing A Multi-Way Stop Controlled Intersection at Highland Springs Avenue and Potrero Boulevard
Nathan Smith, Deputy Public Works Director, presented the staff report.
Council questions:
Councilmember Barrington clarified the conditions of what makes a traffic sign warranted.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
Sue Savage, mentioned that she drives through the intersection twice daily and find it to be traveled lightly with no traffic issues. She does not support adding a stop sign, believing it would create more problems than it would solve.
Mayor Flynn closed public comment
Council discussion:
Councilmember Miller mentioned being in favor of tabling the item.
Motion to table the item was made by Councilmember Wallace and seconded by Councilmember Miller.
Motion passes 5-0.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8 7.1 Consideration of Resolution 2025-86, Confirming the Levy and Collection of Assessments within the City of Banning’s Landscape Maintenance District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2025/2026
Nathan Smith, Deputy Public Works Director, provided the staff report.
Council questions:
Councilmember Barrington confirmed if the fence posts would be able to be resold Councilmember Miller asked if the fencing was the same as that used at Roosevelt Williams Park.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
None
Mayor Flynn closed public comment
Motion made to approve Resolution 2025-86 made by Councilmember Barrington and seconded by Councilmember Wallace
Motion passes 5-0.
8. REPORTS OF OFFICERS
8.1 Consideration of Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 1608, Amending Chapter 5.40 of the Banning Municipal Code Concerning Film Permits and Regulations
Marisol Lopez, Economic Development Manager, provided the staff report.
Council questions:
Mayor Flynn asked who the City film coordinator is. She also asked about the current permit fees and waiving of the business license, and whether those were listed in the ordinance. She also asked about the timing for filming to be allowed within the City during the day. She clarified whether businesses or homes would be notified within a 2-mile radius.
Councilmember Barrington asked about the local film productions and if uploaded to social media, whether it’s still considered private.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
None
9 Mayor Flynn closed public comment.
Vickie Sellers, City Clerk, read the title of Chapter 5.40.
Motion to waive further reading made by Councilmember Wallace and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Royce
Motion passes 5-0
8.2 Proposed Restriping of Highland Springs Avenue Median Between Ramsey Street and
Joshua Palmer Way by the City of Beaumont
Nate Smith, Deputy Public Works Director, provided the staff report.
Council questions:
Mayor Flynn asked about taking a left turn and whether it would be blocked, how drivers would be stopped heading south and turning right into Wendy’s parking lot.
She confirmed that heading North on Highland Springs, there would be no left turns.
Councilmember Miller clarified about the extension of the left turn lane, heading south on Highland Springs.
Councilmember Barrington noted the need to block off the left-hand turns, but expressed frustration about waiting for a while on the left turn signal, noting that driver still turn on a red.
Mayor Pro Tem Royce asked which signal lights are maintained by Cal Trans.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
Oleg Ivaschuck, spoke on the horrible traffic flow. He explained that the current setup provides two entry points, allowing some flexibility and relief for drivers. Under the chang, drivers making a left turn may face longer waiting times and increased congestion, especially waiting on light signals.
Council discussion:
Councilmember Miller mentioned that if the proposal does not work, it can be removed.
9. DISCUSSION ITEMS
9.1 Discussion on Expanding Public Notification Requirements in Banning Zoning Ordinance Related to Land Use Development Applications
David Newell, Community Development Director, provided the staff report.
Council questions:
10 Councilmember Wallace mentioned that developers in her district have come out to ask questions and get feedback from residents.
Councilmember Miller asked about the extensions of the radius and how the council voting would occur by district, and whether council members would have to recuse themselves.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
None
Mayor Flynn closed public comment
Council discussion:
Mayor Flynn recommended adding email notices for neighborhood organizations and noted having one required meeting rather than two.
Councilmember Barrington mentioned other cities such as Palm Springs having systems that she liked, noting that the apartment complexes should be notified, as well.
Mayor Flynn mentioned switching from letters to postcards to assist in costs.
Councilmember Miller mentioned that having signage is a huge help and individuals pay attention to it.
9.2 Discussion on Changing the City's Retail Cannabis Tax Rate Robert Fisher, Acting City Manager, provided the staff report.
Council questions:
Mayor Pro Tem Royce asked about the revenue that is being received from the tax into the general fund and whether the retailers are providing their receipts or if they are giving a check quarterly.
Councilmember Miller questioned why a retailer would not have paid.
Mayor Flynn asked if there was a way to collect and what the guidelines are for that. She also asked to consider whether the figures are for the fiscal year or the calendar year.
Mayor Pro Tem Royce asked if the retailers, per ordinance, have to provide their point of sales.
Mayor Flynn opened public comment
Carlos Zapata, a local owner of a cannabis retailer, expressed concern about a prior year adjustment request, stating that they received a rude and accusatory response that questioned his integrity. He described frustration with the lack of communication from City 11 staff and leadership, including unresponsiveness from the department directors and delayed follow-ups. He emphasized the challenged economic climate, noting significant sales declines across California, and urged the city to make informed, fair decisions. He highlighted their investment of over $1 million into improving previously neglected property, providing jobs for 18 local employees, maintaining security, and generating revenues for the City. He requested a more collaborative partnership with the city, warning that continued difficulties could risk business closures. He expressed commitment to their business and community.
Oleg Ivaschuck, spoke on behalf of businesses, noting that although he is not a consumer in the industry, he discussed the market change and its impact on dispensaries. He mentioned that the cannabis retailers are an asset, providing local jobs and taxes.
Juanita Diaz noted that although she is not a consumer, she believes the retailers are giving back to the community through taxes, the past council voted for it, and they are willing to contribute. The city should accept and not lose more businesses.
Council discussion:
Mayor Pro Tem Royce noted that, per the ordinances that he researched, the retailers have to provide their numbers on a quarterly basis. He expressed frustration that it feels like there is no adequate information being provided.
Councilmember Miller voiced his agreement with Mr. Royce, noting it is difficult to make a decision when there is no adequate numbers provided. He advised the retailers to email the information directly to the council.
Consensus was made to receive more information from staff and continue the item to the next City Council meeting.
10. ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
None
11. ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS
11.1 NEW ITEMS
11.2 EXISTING ITEMS
1. Update on Community Garden (Flynn)
2. Contracting Animal Services (Flynn)
3. Emergency Preparedness (Barrington)
4. Discussion of Reversing Decision to Close Airport (Royce)
5. Patriot Tree (Barrington)
6. Contractor(s) to do Citywide Cleanup (Flynn)
7. RFP for City Manager (Wallace)
8. Long term City Strategic Planning (Miller)
9. Update on Electric Billing (Miller)
10. Review and Update Council Travel Policy (Flynn)
11. 2x2 Committee on Smith Correctional Facility (Royce) Motion to adjourn meeting made by Mayor Pro Tem Royce and seconded by Councilmember Miller. Motion passes 5-0.
12 12. ADJOURNMENT – 9:48 P.M.
Next Regular Meeting – June 24, 2025
Prepared by: Amanda Morgan, Program Coordinator
Reviewed and submitted by: Sandra Calderon, Deputy City Clerk.
These minutes have been prepared as Summary Minutes in
accordance with City Council Resolution 2025-22 and Government Code Sections 36814, 40801, and 54953(c)(2).
The entire discussion of this meeting may be viewed here:
https://banningca.granicus.com/player/clip/214?view_id=1&redirect=true