REGULAR MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
JANUARY 21, 2025
5:00 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
Minutes-January 21, 2025
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the Closed Session meeting to order at 5:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
James M. Noble Council Member Present
Barbara Mae Rose Mayor Pro Tem Present
John Williams Council Member Present
Carmen Hernandez Council Member Present
Timothy Silva Mayor Present
PARTICIPATION IS INVITED : IF YOU WISH TO BE HEARD ON ANY ITEM ON THE AGENDA, PLEASE
SO INDICATE BY FILLING OUT A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD AND HANDING IT TO THE CITY CLERK PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM EING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
CODE OF ETHICS: AS YOUR ELECTED GOVERNING BOARD WE WILL REMEMBER THE "CODE OF ETHICS" THAT WE VOLUNTARILY AND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED. DURING THIS MEETING WE WILL TREAT EACH OTHER AND THE PUBLIC WITH PATIENCE, CIVILITY, AND COURTESY. THE DECISIONS
MADE TONIGHT WILL BE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE BARSTOW COMMUNITY AND NOT FOR PERSONAL GAIN.
PUBLIC COMMENT - CLOSED SESSION: THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC
TO ADDRESS THE GOVERNING BOARD ON MATTERS ON THE CLOSED SESSION AGENDA AND WITHIN THE CITY’S JURISDICTION. SPEAKERS ARE ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES OR LESS. ALL REQUESTS TO SPEAK MUST BE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM BEING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
SPEAKERS
ET SNELL, NEWBERRY SPRINGS
- Spoke of his tripod and why he was not allowed to have it at the meetings.
MELODY WALKER, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of an accident that occurred in 2019.
GILBERT ASA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of an accident he had in 2019.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of profanity that was said in past meetings.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about the spending abilities of the city manager and the lack of transparency. - Noted Mr. Espinoza has many privileges no other city manager had before. - Explained his spending power increase from $50,000 to $75,000.
MOTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
Recommended Action:
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)), the City Council finds, based on advice from legal counsel, that discussion in open session will prejudice the position of the City in the litigation.
Case Name: Barstow Proprietors Association, et al. v. City of Barstow et. al, US District Court, Central District of California, Case No. 5:23-cv-00926-JLS-JC; United States Courts of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, Case No. 23-3935
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
Recommended Action:
Pursuant to (Gov. Code Section 54956.9(d)(1))
The City Council finds, based on advice from legal counsel, that discussion in open session will prejudice the position of the City in the litigation.
Case Name: Ellis v. City of Barstow
Names of Parties or Claimants
San Bernardino County Superior Court Case No. CIV-SB-2307680
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Recommended Action:
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2) & (e)(1), a point has been reached where, in the opinion of the City Council, on the advice of its legal counsel, based on the belowdescribed existing facts and circumstances, there is a significant exposure to litigation against the City. Facts and circumstances that might result in litigation but which the City believes are not yet known to potential plaintiff or plaintiffs. (Government Code Section 54956.9(e)(1)) Number of Potential Cases: 2
Minutes-January 21, 2025
4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - INITIATION OF LITIGATION Recommended Action:
(Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(4))
Number of Potential Cases: 1
5. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS Recommended Action:
(Government Code Section 54956.8)
Property: Bureau of Lang Management Land east and north of the commercial developments along Highpoint Parkway, off Lenwood Road
Agency Negotiators: Andy Espinoza Jr., Interim City Manager Negotiating Party: Lewis Acquisition Company, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
6. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR
Recommended Action:
(Gov. Code § 54957.6)
District Negotiators: Acting City Manager/District Manager Chris Heldreth & Barstow Fire Protection District Chief Cory Cisneros
Employee Organization: Barstow Professional Firefighters Association
7. PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT
Recommended Action:
(Government Code Section 54957)
Title: Interim City Manager, Police Chief, Public Safety Director REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
MATTHEW SUMMERS, CITY ATTORNEY reported the following:
- The City Council met in Closed Session to consider two of the items on the closed session, the other five will continue after the conclusion of the Regular meeting. - The council considered item number two Existing Litigation Regarding Ellis vs City of Barstow, Direction was provided to staff with no reportable action taken. - The City Council also considered item number seven Public Employment regarding the Interim City Manager, Police Chief, and Public Safety Director. There was a reportable action. Mr. Espinoza was placed on paid administrative leave until further notice.
CALL TO ORDER - REGULAR MEETING 7:00 PM (or immediately following adjournment of Closed Session if adjourned after 7:00 PM):
MAYOR SILVA called the Regular meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
INVOCATION:
PASTOR MIKE SMITH from BETHANY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP gave the invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MAYOR SILVA led in the pledge of the allegiance.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
ROLL CALL:
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
James M. Noble Council Member Present
Barbara Mae Rose Mayor Pro Tem Present
John Williams Council Member Present
Carmen Hernandez Council Member Present
Timothy Silva Mayor Present
PARTICIPATION IS INVITED: IF YOU WISH TO BE HEARD ON ANY ITEM ON THE AGENDA INCLUDING
ANY ITEM ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR, PLEASE SO INDICATE BY FILLING OUT A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD AND HANDING IT TO THE CITY CLERK. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
CODE OF ETHICS: AS YOUR ELECTED GOVERNING BOARD WE WILL REMEMBER THE "CODE OF ETHICS" THAT WE VOLUNTARILY AND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED. DURING THIS MEETING WE WILL TREAT EACH OTHER AND THE PUBLIC WITH PATIENCE, CIVILITY, AND COURTESY. THE DECISIONS
MADE TONIGHT WILL BE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE BARSTOW COMMUNITY AND NOT FOR PERSONAL GAIN.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA: THIS IS THE TIME FOR MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING BOARD TO CALL FOR REARRANGING THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA; ADDING ITEMS TO OR REMOVING ITEMS FROM THE AGENDA; OR REMOVING ITEMS FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION AND/OR SEPARATE ACTION. ITEMS MAY ONLY BE ADDED TO THE AGENDA AS ALLOWED BY STATE LAW, INCLUDING GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54954.2, SUBDIVISION (B),
ALLOWING EMERGENCY ITEMS TO BE ADDED BY MAJORITY VOTE AND ALLOWING ITEMS THAT AROSE TO THE CITY’S ATTENTION AFTER THE AGENDA POSTING DEADLINE, BUT WHICH REQUIRE
IMMEDIATE ACTION, TO BE ADDED BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT
AT THE MEETING, OR, IF LESS THAN TWO-THIRDS OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS ARE PRESENT, A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THOSE MEMBERS PRESENT.
Motion by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS to pull item 10 for discussion.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: John Williams, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PRESENTATIONS:
8. CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION FOR THE 2024-2025 BARSTOW HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY FOOTBALL.
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
9. AFTER-EVENT REPORT AND PRESENTATION BY BABIES SO SPECIAL Recommended Action:
After-event report and presentation only.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
RESULT: CONTINUED – Presenter did not show Next: 2/3/2025 5:30 PM CONSENT CALENDAR PUBLIC COMMENT: THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE GOVERNING BOARD ON ALL MATTERS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR.
SPEAKERS ARE ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS ON ALL CONSENT ITEMS TO THREE MINUTES OR LESS. ALL REQUESTS TO SPEAK MUST BE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM BEING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
MINUTES ALL AGENCIES:
NONE
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
NONE
CITY COUNCIL:
10. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT (SIDE LETTER) TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH TEAMSTERS LOCAL 1932 - UNIT 1
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following action:
1. Approve the Amendment to the 2022-2025 Memorandum of Understanding (side letter) between the City of Barstow and Teamsters Local 1932 – Unit 1 pertaining to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked when the original MOU was ratified and signed
- Asked about the fiscal impact in fiscal year 2025.
- Asked why is it not signed by the teamster representative and asked if the MOU could have been written up as different and cleared.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified the original MOU was signed in July 2022.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained there is no change to the fiscal impact because this is part of the personal budget. - Clarified this needs to be approved by the council before is presented to teamsters for signature. - Clarified this is retroactive to the MOU only not financially, explained these members are currently receiving this incentive.
- Noted this is just to correct the MOU which was written incorrectly.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Clarified that this is just to clarify and align the MOU with the City's CalPERS retirement system.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked how it affects CalPERS without the supporting documents. - Asked if these individuals will be penalized by the system.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained this does not affect CalPERS in the sense of income, it affects the count towards time served.
- Clarified the employees will not be penalized, and there is no financial impact; this is just counting towards pension hours for retirement.
DISCUSSION
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Expressed her concern with the document to being signed by union representatives. - Noted this does not confirm that the union agrees with what is being presented and asked for spreadsheets in the future.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained how this erroneous mistake was caught, and why it is on tonight's agenda for approval.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Thanked Chris for the clarification as to why this has to be approved.
WILLIAMS,
- Said he appreciates employees noting it is important to do the right thing by them.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
DISCUSSION / ACTION ON DEFERRED ITEMS:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
11. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1027-2025 APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT WITH LEWIS LAND DEVELOPERS, LLC FOR A 146-UNIT SINGLE-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL HOUSING PROJECT LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
RIMROCK ROAD AND HIGGINS ROAD
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council introduce Ordinance No. 1027-2025 approving a development agreement with Lewis Land Developers, LLC for a 146-unit single family residential housing project located on the southwest corner of Rimrock Road and Higgins Road, as recommended by the Planning Commission at its December 9, 2024 meeting.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, GENESIS CRANK
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office. - Clarified the reason for this ordinance is because the tentative map is about to expire and there is a need for an extension consideration with a development agreement attached.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked for information regarding the purchase status of the land.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified escrow closed on December 19, 2024.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked for clarification about the 10-year time frame and an extension of 5 more years if needed.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, GENESIS CRANK
- Clarified this is because the development agreement and the map are tied together.
MAYOR SILVA OPENED THE PUBLIC HEARING AT 7:52 pm
SPEAKERS:
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned there is no documentation regarding the purchase of the land. - Requested to add an agreement stating they have to build something within a certain period of time.
- Would like to see some guarantee that some development will happen in the near future.
ET SNELL, NEWBERRY SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
- Concerned about them building and walking away.
- Noted he does not see what they are proposing for the benefit of senior citizens and children in our community.
MAYOR SILVA CLOSED THE PUBLIC HEARING AT 7:59 pm
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained the application process for entitlements.
BILL HOOVER, with LEWIS GROUP
- Introduced himself and gave an explanation as to the interest in building in the city and confirmed that the property was purchased.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked when they are planning to start development.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked about the access road to Montara Rd.
- Asked about Stringham Park and asked for the safety of the children.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Said they are working on the circulation road and how Higgins Rd is not a thru street. - Explained the diversion to Montara Rd.
- Noted once they develop these projects and the fees are collected funds will go to help improve parks and streets.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked about how long it takes to build these 146 homes.
BILL HOOVER, with LEWIS GROUP
- Noted that under normal market conditions, it will take about 3 years from the day they start selling to the day they are all sold out.
DISCUSSION
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked about the zoning for this project.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained currently in the General Plan this is diverse use land but this will change with this Development Agreement.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
BUSINESS / ACTION ITEMS:
CITY COUNCIL:
12. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A MASTER LEASE-PURCHASE
AGREEMENT AND RELATED DOCUMENTS WITH HOLMAN CAPITAL FOR THE
LEASE/PURCHASE OF A ENFORCER PIERCE ULTIMATE CONFIGURATION PUMPER FIRE ENGINE, AND THE LEASE/PURCHASE OF A BME INTERNATIONAL TYPE # 3 BRUSH TRUCK.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council:
1. Approve BFPD Resolution 74-2025 authorizing the Barstow City Council to execute the Master Lease-Purchase Agreement and related documents with Holman Capital to finance the acquisition of a Pierce Fire Engine, and the BME International Brush Truck with a cost not to exceed a total of $1,700,000 collectively, as defined in the Discussion Section of this staff report.
FINANCE DIRECTOR, SYDNEY HARRIS
- Presented the staff report as filed with The City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Spoke of the presentation made at the July 15, 2024 meeting when the recommendation was made to use Measure Q funds to purchase the Fire Trucks. - Asked why the vehicle was not paid six months ago when approved by the council.
FINANCE DIRECTOR, SYDNEY HARRIS
- Explained what residual funds are, and suggested financing the vehicles instead of cash purchase.
- Explained currently the city is financing two fire trucks. - Noted the current fund balance was around 8 Million dollars. Noted she is expecting the end balance at the end of the year to be around 6 Million dollars after all expenses and the purchase of this fire truck.
- Noted the type one engine takes about four years to be built and they are currently building it.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked what staff is planning to do with the 1.7 million if we don't pay for this upfront. - Asked what is the projected revenue in 2025 from Measure Q.
INTERIM CITY MANAGER CHRIS HELDRETH,
- Explained the bill is not due currently and this maximizes the use of the money.
FINANCE DIRECTOR, SYDNEY HARRIS
- Explained they are projecting a revenue of $10,100,000.00 from Measure Q. - Noted they are expecting about 12 million dollars in expenses for this year.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if it could pay it off early.
FINANCE DIRECTOR, SYDNEY HARRIS
- Said we pay upfront
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Does not understand why it cannot be paid on the lump sum.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked Chief Cisneros if he was informed of the delays in the two apparatus vehicles the council approved.
CHIEF CISNEROS
- Noted he was made aware by the vendor of what the issues were on this delay. - Noted he was made aware of fiscal strategies by staff.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked who has the authority to reverse the Council's decision.
MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Responded that only the Council can override the Council decision.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked when staff planned to take this to Measure Q for approval.
INTERIM CITY MANAGER CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained staff intentions with bringing this item for approval. - Requested a Measure Q presentation to the council.
FINANCE DIRECTOR, SYDNEY HARRIS
- Noted staff is ready to do a presentation.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked what are the planned benefits if the Council approves this item.
FINANCE DIRECTOR, SYDNEY HARRIS
- Noted this year the city spent about $850,000 on park renovations. - Explained the interest rate was locked in when the documentation was drafted and expires on the 30th of January 2025.
- Explained the city currently has a lease of 54 vehicles from Enterprise.
MAYOR SILVA
- Asked if there is a penalty for delaying the purchase.
SPEAKERS:
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked who gave authority to change the terms of the purchase, and said the money has to be there.
DISCUSSION:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Concerned about how Measure Q funds are being spent, noting Measure Q was not intended to be a general fund and to pay all of the city's bills.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Said this was an exception to the rule and asked how much in debt the city is in regards to the Fire Department.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Would have wanted to see what the intentions are for this money.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified that the purchase was still moving forward, what they are bringing back is the finance and not the delay of the purchase.
RESULT: FAILED [2 TO 3]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Silva
NAYS: Rose, Williams, Hernandez
13. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE OF A CCTV TRUCK/EQUIPMENT
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the council take the following actions:
1. Authorize the purchase of a new CCTV van from Haaker equipment, by appropriating $383,032.21 from the Wastewater Enterprise Fund and,
2. Authorize the City Manager or designee to issue the intent to purchase and the authority to execute the necessary agreement when the equipment becomes available.
PLANT SUPERINTENDENT WESLEY GARRISON
- Presented the staff report as filed with The City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked what this purchase was for and what this was used for.
PLANT SUPERINTENDENT WESLEY GARRISON
- Explained this is a robotic tractor with an underwater camera that is deployed to surveillance the city's collection system to check for cracks, breakage in the pipes, etc., to come up with a preventive maintenance plan to clean the city's sewer and replace sewer lines. - Noted the current equipment is 9 years old and is currently out of service.
COUNCIL WILLIAMS
- Asked how this piece of equipment will make the job easier.
PLANT SUPERINTENDENT WESLEY GARRISON
- Explained this will allow for staff to prevent sewer spills. - Noted the fines for sewage leaks are about $10k per gallon and this equipment will help to prevent that.
- Explained they had seen a few sewage leaks in the last few years.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked if the item was budgeted.
PLANT SUPERINTENDENT WESLEY GARRISON
- Noted he has budgeted accordingly in FY25.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- How long have the inspections not been done?
Minutes-January 21, 2025
PLANT SUPERINTENDENT WESLEY GARRISON
- Noted 2023 they stated seeing a decline in equipment mentioning that out of the 665,000 ft of the sewer system, they only inspected 1500ft, and in 2024 they inspected only 2,100 ft. - Mentioned they had been out of the equipment for 3-4 months.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked if this camera can accomplish those inspections.
PLANT SUPERINTENDENT WESLEY GARRISON
- Responded this equipment should be able to handle these inspections. - Noted the current equipment should go out to auction.
SPEAKERS:
NONE
DISCUSSION:
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Complemented staff for their great job and likes what the WWTP is doing to remedy the cost of the fines.
HERNANDEZ
- Commented they were unaware of the length of time they were out or the camera.
SILVA
- Said it’s good to see what is below on the streets when the street has been improved.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
14. PLANNING COMMISSION VACANCIES
Recommended Action:
The Selection Committee recommends the City Council appoint Beatrice Lint and Ted Weasma as Planning Commissioners for one term, (to end 12/31/2028).
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Presented the staff report as filed with The City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Thanked council members who participated in the recruitment process. - Congratulated the appointed members.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
Minutes-January 21, 2025
15. SELECTION OF COMMITTEE REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE STREET COMMITTEE Recommended Action:
It is recommended that Mayor Silva appoint a Member of the Council to serve on the Street Committee.
SPEAKERS:
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Said the committee has the potential to make decisions and not depend on a computer system because many streets need attention within the city.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked for a change in the language within the description.
Appointed COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ to be on the committee.
RESULT: COMPLETED
GENERAL, NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT: THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL
PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE GOVERNING BOARD ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE CITY’S JURISDICTION. SPEAKERS ARE ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES OR LESS. ALL REQUESTS TO SPEAK MUST BE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM BEING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOUR NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
SPEAKERS:
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of a handout he gave regarding the overpayment to the Marriott and said they were not entitled to it.
- Wanted to know what this council is going to do to get this money back. - Asked about the Cannabis odor and asked why the city didn't cancel the contract for being out of compliance.
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about financial responsibility and the amount of money coming out of Measure Q. - Noted the city purchased a dog kennel and a truck to pick up dogs and asked how many vicious dogs have been picked up.
- Mentioned there has not been a Measure Q meeting in over a year and this needs to be addressed.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Concerned about their upcoming meeting on Thursday, January 23rd, and asked why the meeting is being held at a remote location and asked for reporting of closed session.
JOHN HARRIS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Congratulated the new Council spoke of the BIG project coming and wants to make sure they do their due diligence.
SONIA REAY, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked what is the contingency plan if there is a fire at the Tesla charging center. - Mentioned the College Barstow started their Barstow reads program every Wednesday at 2 pm at the new coffee shop.
- Mentioned the book "Sitting Pretty" by Rebekah Taussig author will be coming in May to do a presentation.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
STAFF REPORTS:
NONE
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- None
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Attended Military Affairs January 14th. Looking ahead, this year’s mixer will be at Ft Irwin. - The Economic Development meeting will be at Barstow Community College on January 29th between 8-9 AM.
- The State of the City will be on April 30th at Barstow Community College. - The MCLB Golf Tournament will be on May 4th.
- The VVTA meeting today voted for two new members.
- VVTA Will be meeting in Barstow on February 18th at 9:30 AM.
MAYOR PRO-TEM ROSE
- Attended Homeward Bound meeting on January 9th.
- Committee applications are being accepted.
- Asking individuals who wish to donate rolls of quarters for Loads of Laundry. - Church of Christ has a shower program. Contact Sergio and also do food giveaways. - Mentioned they also purchased a sink for the church.
- Spoke about a Homeless coordinator position.
- Move the meeting to Thursdays, next meeting will be February 13 at 5 PM. - Move Rules and Policy to 5 PM.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- None
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended SBCTA, and took a vote on opposition of a couple of measures which will require all housing to be electric no gas.
- Attended Military Fairs with COUNCIL MEMBER Noble.
- Attended League of Cities in Apple Valley.
- Will be speaking at the Economic Development meeting.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Spoke about the Cannabis odor and noted the next MDAQMD meeting will be on Monday 27th. - Asked if staff is taking any action.
- Spoke about the Riverside bench needing to be repaired. - Requested the meeting to be adjourned in memory of Martha Saenz. - Fire Hydrants have not been checked and would be the water company fire and building inspector
INTERIM CITY MANAGER CHRIS HELDRETH
- Expressed that they are formulating a game plan and drafted revocation notices and this was sent to several operators.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Announced the council will be taking public comments on the special meeting on January 23 at 8:00 am at the Holiday Inn.
- Noted the item is listed as City Manager public employment. - Mentioned it was selected there for facilitating better discussion.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Noted when driving down Main Street he saw many vendors and asked if they were licensed. - Mentioned if they are not licensed why they have not been removed. - Noted this is a safety hazard, mentioned they are stopping traffic. - Noted there are some on Main St and Rimrock.
- Expressed concerns with homelessness and how are we going to fix that lingering and would like to see more police presence in those areas.
- Mentioned Humane Society needs to be looked at as he has seen an abundance of stray dogs running around the city.
MAYOR PRO-TEM ROSE
- Attended the Pickleball court event and thanked staff for making it happen. - Requested a Measure Q presentation for the February 3rd meeting. COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ seconded.
- Mentioned they are planning to coordinate more town hall meetings, will be teaming up with District 4, and invite the public to attend and hear about the safety concerns and upcoming events. - Mentioned the Cora Harper logo looks great and asked about the cost. Will like to see the cost of this project.
- Asked about the status of the military flags. Will like to see them on Main Street. - Asked what is the vacancy status on Measure Q.
- Asked if they can review the received applications for Measure Q.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Explained they got the application and the order was getting ready to be sent to the manufacturer. - Expressed they received a notification from Edison asking for the removal of all brackets. - Noted they finally got approval from Edison in mid-December to use the poles. - Mentioned banners should arrive within 4 weeks.
- Noted the application went out and they had received two applications for Measure Q committee.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Requested a presentation of street projects and their status at the next meeting. MAYOR SILVA seconded.
- Requested a complete cost allocation for the street lighting event. MAYOR PRO TEM Rose seconded.
- Requested to see Measure Q meetings go monthly with both the City Manager and Finance Director to attend these meetings and to review the Measure Q ordinance at the next meeting, MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE seconded.
MAYOR SILVA
- Requested a Youth Advisory Council be put together, COUNCIL MEMBER Williams seconded. - Expressed his concerns with the cannabis issues and was glad to see the revocable documentation was sent.
- Requested to have a student do the flag salute, COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ seconded. - Asked if the military banner application is on the city's website. - Recognize everyone in the city for their accomplishments. - Encourage council members to have town hall meetings nothing he will attend if invited. - Would come up with a time frame and ask questions of staff and the City Manager to discuss the agenda.
- Explained they are hiding the identity of the applicants which is a liability issue if those names are disclosed.
- Asked staff about the plans for the EOC and what we do in an emergency.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Mentioned the Fire Hydrants had not been checked and would like to see this done. - Would like to see a report from the water company.
Minutes-January 21, 2025
ADJOURNMENT:
By the consensus of the City Council and without objection the meeting was adjourned at 10:31 P.M. in honor of Martha Saenz and resumed to closed session.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office