BARSTOW CITY COUNCIL /
BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
MARCH 3, 2025
6:00 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
JOINT SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes-March 3, 2025
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the Special meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE led in 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.SPEAKERS:
Minutes-March 3, 2025
SPEAKERS:
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of a video he has regarding a police incident and his tripod being taken away.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned item 3 is vague would like to see more clarification.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about report of closed session items that have not been reported.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about the language on item 3 regarding Public Employment and knows of qualified people that would come to work for Barstow.
GILBERT ASA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about an investigation being conducted by the DA.
MOTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS:
1. 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
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - INITIATION OF LITIGATION Recommended Action:
(Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(4))
Number of Potential Cases: 2
3. PUBLIC EMPLOYMENT
Recommended Action:
(Government Code Section 54957)
Position Title: Police Chief
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS reported the following:
- The council met in Closed Session to discuss three items, conference with labor negotiator, initiation of litigation, and public employment which refers to the present position of Police Chief. Direction was provided to council and staff and no reportable action was taken. - Item 2 was deferred to the end of tonight’s Regular Meeting.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
- Reported from the February 18th meeting the council considered three items Public Employment regarding the Interim City Manager, Police Chief, and Public Safety Director, Conference with Labor Negotiator, and they also discussed Conference with Real Property Negotiator regarding the Lewis Group. Direction was provided and no reportable action was taken.
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 meeting to order at 7:04 PM
INVOCATION:
PASTOR JOE VAIL from MOJAVE DESERT CHRISTIAN CHURCH led the invocation PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
JT FERNANDEZ, with BARSTOW YOUTH FOOTBALL 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 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 pulling item number 12 for further discussion and tabled item number 13.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: John Williams, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PRESENTATIONS:
4. CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION FOR BARSTOW COMMUNITY FOOTBALL AND CHEER Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
MAYOR SILVA AND COUNCIL
- Presented certificates of appreciation to members of Barstow Youth Football.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
5. PRESENTATION FROM CA ROUTE 66 MUSEUM
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
BRANDON O'BRIEN FROM CA ROUTE 66 MUSEUM
- Announced the grant re-opening of the Mother Road Museum this March 22nd. - Invited the council and the community to attend this event.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
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:
6. MINUTES REGULAR MEETING - NOVEMBER 18, 2024, AT 6:00 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
7. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - DECEMBER 2, 2024, AT 6:00 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
8. MINUTES REGULAR MEETING - DECEMBER 16, 2024, AT 6:00 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
9. RATIFICATION OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE EXPENDITURES
Recommended Action:
Approve and ratify expenses, as audited, for checks #98437-98570 totaling $3,405,553.30 and wires #1086-1097 totaling $291,900.62, per the Agency breakdown below:
City: $3,519,589.04
Fire: $177,864.88
Successor Agency: $0.00
Grand Total: $3,697,453.92
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CITY COUNCIL:
10. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW AMENDING SECTION
2.04.010 REGARDING THE MEETING TIME AND PLACE OF THE CITY COUNCIL Recommended Action:
Pursuant to requests of the Mayor, adopt the proposed ordinance.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
11. APPROVAL OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT RELATED TO ARPA
FUNDS FOR BARSTOW CEMETERY RESTROOM PROJECT
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 2 to the contract between San Bernardino County and the City of Barstow for the Barstow Cemetery Restroom Construction Project that will extend the obligation period to May 31, 2025.
2. Authorize the City Manager to sign and execute Amendment No. 2 to the contract between Minutes-March 3, 2025
San Bernardino County and the City of Barstow for the Barstow Cemetery Restroom Construction Project.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
12. AMENDMENT TO FY 2024/2025 PUBLICLY AVAILABLE PAY SCHEDULE (PAPS) Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No 5199-2025, approving the amended publicly available pay schedule (PAPS) (Attachment A) for FY 2024/2025 with an effective date of February 18, 2025.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
DISCUSSION:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Commented she is looking forward to having a new city manager come on board. - Highlighted everything going back to the Police Chief having one single title.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
DISCUSSION / ACTION ON DEFERRED ITEMS:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
NONE.
BUSINESS / ACTION ITEMS:
CITY COUNCIL:
13. RECLASSIFICATION OF THE FIREFIGHTER/EMT POSITION TO SALARY GRADE 11480 Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the Barstow Fire Protection District Board:
1. Approve the reclassification of the Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) position to salary grade 11480 ($6,229.56 - $7,950.67 per month) (Attachment B).
RESULT: TABLED Next: 3/17/2025 6:00 PM
14. AMENDMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH PLACEWORKS, INC
FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH THE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE Recommended Action:
Staff recommends approval of the attached Professional Services Agreement augment with PlaceWorks for the General Plan Update and associated tasks.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Wanted to make sure the city is reimbursed.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned she would like to see the fiscal impact listed on future agenda items.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked what the length of the augment would be.
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Answered that this is for the length of the project.
SPEAKERS:
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked how often the city would be paid back from BNSF.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked if there was a general cost, and also asked how soon will the city be paid.
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained every month the city will receive a bill from Placeworks based on the work provided for that month, immediately after the, city will bill BNSF. - BNSF will pay monthly and will be reimbursed monthly and pay the vendor monthly.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
15. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE EXCLUSIVE NEGOTIATING AGREEMENT WITH LEWIS LAND DEVELOPERS, LLC., THROUGH ITS ASSIGNMENT BY LEWIS
ACQUISITION COMPANY, LLC
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with Lewis Land Developers, LLC., through its assignment by Lewis Acquisition Company, LLC.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked if the Lewis group is not building homes.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified the Lewis Group will get the entitlement in place which secures approval to build homes and then they will sell to builders.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if this ENA can transfer to another party.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified if they transfer they will need city consent.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Mentioned this property had been put into the BLM district to start the process to transfer this property into the City of Barstow.
- Noted this might be a two to three-year process
- Explained there is a $15,000 deposit because the city does not intend to incur any costs at the moment.
SPEAKERS:
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about the negotiation and if there is no one to purchase, then what happens to the property.
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified the ENA is just a negotiating agreement, but before selling it to the Lewis Group they have to enter into a development agreement.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified this is not a final deal but when the time comes timelines and development agreements have to be approved by the council.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked about the sale of the property and if it would come back to the council for approval.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
16. AWARD OF MEASURE Q YOUTH COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS FY 24-25 Recommended Action:
Authorize the allocation of $37,563 from the Measure Q Funds towards providing in-kind donations and $51,540 in field usage fee waivers to the youth sports organizations.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE and COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS RECUSED FROM MEETING AT 8:05 P.M. DUE TO CONFLICT OF INTEREST.
RECREATION ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR FOR PARKS AND REC, CHELSEA PHILLIPS - Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked for all the names of the applicants.
- Asked who selects the applications.
- Asked if she ever met with Megan Cardenas regarding her application. - Asked if she was aware of the re-mapping of the community promotional fund measure Q was on Rules and Policy.
RECREATION ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR FOR PARKS AND REC, CHELSEA PHILLIPS - Explained she takes all the applications and the council makes the selection. - Confirmed she received Mrs. Cardenas's application on this day at 3:30 PM. - Noted the only application that is not for approval tonight is Barstow Little League Softball because they are still in the process of obtaining a current 501(c)(3). - Clarified there are enough funds to fund everybody.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified council can give direction to approve Barstow Little League Softball application once their 501(c)(3) is provided to staff so they don't have to come back for approval.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Stated Council can pre-approve the application received tonight and then come back for review.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested to see the breakdown of requested funds for each applicant.
MAYOR SILVA called for a recess at 8:15 P.M.
The meeting resumed at 8:26 P.M. with COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE and MAYOR SILVA present.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested to see the application received this day.
SPEAKERS:
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Suggested finding someone willing to review applications to speed this process to benefit the children.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked if all organizations were getting the same amount.
DOLORES PADILLA, BARSTOW LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL
- Explained issues with their 501(c)(3).
MEGHAN CARDENAS, PRESIDENT BARSTOW HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL BOOSTER - Expressed concerns with the application process.
- Noted she called the city several times before someone finally returned her phone call.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned she is glad to see these funds are going to the youth but would like to see a breakdown of the distribution of funds.
- Would like to see staff returning phone calls from the public or the council holding them accountable for their actions.
SELINA JARAMILLO, PRESIDENT LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL
- Gave an explanation regarding the challenges they are having obtaining their 501c3. - Explained she does not feel supported by the council.
QUESTIONS:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked Mrs. Jaramillo if their league buys their softballs. - Asked what options the staff has given her.
- Asked Mrs. Cardenas to continue with her statement.
SELINA JARAMILLO, PRESIDENT LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL
- Explained the three options the staff has given her regarding the equipment provided.
MEGHAN CARDENAS, PRESIDENT BARSTOW HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL BOOSTER - Continued with her statement and mentioned the equipment they are in need.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ TO
APPROVE THE APPLICANTS PRESENTED TONIGHT AND TO INCLUDE BARSTOW SOFTBALL AND TO MOVE FORWARD THE REQUEST.
DISCUSSION:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested the summary information in the packet to be available for the public. - Thanked all the representatives from these organizations for all they do for the children.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Mentioned these council will continue to support the youth sports. - Thanked all for their support and asked the community to attend the games.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Told the public that if they are having any problems they can reach to the city manager or the city council with their concerns.
MAYOR SILVA
- Gave clarification why Mrs. Cardenas and Mrs. Jaramillo were called back for comments.
Motion by MAYOR PRO TEM Rose, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ to approve all group applications presented tonight and to include Barstow Softball request with the following Youth Sports Community Promotional Fund Awards:
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE and COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS returned to the meeting at 9:07 P.M RESULT: APPROVED [3 TO 0]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Rose, Hernandez, Silva
RECUSED: Noble, Williams
17. ADOPT CITY COUNCIL POLICY MEMORANDUM #2025-20, MANAGEMENT OF
CONFIDENTIAL CLOSED SESSION RECORDS
Recommended Action:
Adopt City Council Policy Memorandum #2025-20, Management of Confidential Closed Session Records
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office. - Clarified the policy is lawful and will recommend approval.
Organization In-Kind Donation Amount Waiver of Fees
Barstow Little League Softball $1,595 $9,600
Barstow Little League Baseball $13,140
Barstow Youth Soccer $3,123 $20,840
Barstow Com. Youth Football and
Cheer
$31,657
Desert Community Soccer Club $8,320
Noble Strong Inc. $2,783
PXF Baseball $9,240
TOTALS $39,158 $61,140
Minutes-March 3, 2025
- Explained there was a suggestion to make the clarification to chapter 3.1 clear.
INTERIM CITY MANAGER, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Suggested adding "all the employees allowed in closed session will be directed by the council".
SPEAKERS:
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated this has been an issue for several years, hopes this could fix information leaks. - Asked what the consequences would be to the person leaking information.
QUESTIONS:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked what the consequences would be to a council member breaching confidentiality. - Noted a council member can be held liable for a lawsuit.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained the consequences for a council member could include censure, referral to the District Attorney for potential prosecution, loss of any elements of the council position, with the right court order blocking to future closed session meetings.
- Added for an employee the consequences are suspension, termination, firing, and reporting to the DA. Noted for an employee the consequences are more powerful. - Explained if a member of the community receives this information they can report it to the city or the DA.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Noted this is the strongest policy written in the last 10 years. - Asked if these rules apply to commissioners and committees as well.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified all commissioners and committees would be bound by the same rules.
DISCUSSION:
MAYOR SILVA
- Made it clear he will not tolerate any leak of closed session and he will investigate any leak.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
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 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
SPEAKERS:
JOHN HILL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of a broken retaining wall the Barstow Rd. at St. Joseph's Church and asked for support from the city to repair it.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
- Asked about the trees in downtown, mentioned they are dying. - Noted it will be nice to remove the dams at the river. - Would like to see a symphony center on Hill Top.
- Would like to see a Ferris wheel park where the old El Rancho Motel used to be, a carousel, and a mini golf.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked who checks the fire hydrants around the city.
- Asked about the Treasurer's Report that hasn't been given out in over a year. - Asked about the cannabis update and wanted to know the status. - Said he attended the Rules and Policies meeting and asked about the distribution of the cannabis fund, asked how much money is in the account and how much money has been spent, and noted there is no policy concerning this.
- Noted policy was changed concerning how questions had been answer from the public. Would like to know how staff will be answering questions from the public.
ANNA FUZIE, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned she attended the last Measure Q meeting and requested the transcripts and was told those meetings were not recorded and there were no transcripts. - Noted the Senior Citizens Center had asked for funds from Measure Q but had not received a response.
- Asked why the process to obtain Measure Q funds is so difficult, why there is no policy, and where is the money for the senior citizens.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Would like to see and investigation on who is in charge of taking Measure Q applications. - Asked if Measure Q money can be used to polygraph Police Departments for felonies. - Would like to see some reserve for the youth sports.
- Would like to see some extra computers for the seniors.
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked that his issues be addressed and mentioned he is concerned that the city attorney would not give him a consultation.
- Would like to see a seating area outside the council chamber in the foyer with a water cooler.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned she is sad to see staff does not return phone calls to the public when they have questions.
- Noted when she was running for District 4 she reached out a couple of times and did received a call back just a message back.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Addressed Mr. Roland problems with the Chili Cook Off event. - Requested the city not take over this event.
- Mentioned Mr. Roland is letting it go this year but working a new program for the following year. - Hopes this event is not discontinued.
GILBERT ASA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Apologized for attacking the council on Facebook and will like a meeting with each of them.
STAFF REPORTS:
NONE
Minutes-March 3, 2025
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Attended the AQMD on February 24 they spoke about EPA requirements for the county of Riverside.
- Mentioned they will inspect the equipment at the business on Lenwood Rd. - The next Street Committee Meeting will be Wednesday, March 5th.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Military Affairs will be on March 11 at 8:00 PM at Los Domingo’s. - VVTA meeting will be on March 17 at 9:30 AM in Hesperia.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Nothing.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned Rules and Policy met on February 25, the meetings were moved to 5:00 PM. - Requested that the meetings be recorded.
- There will be a special meeting on March 11 at 5:00 PM to discuss specifically the cannabis funds and seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS to get a complete audit once the policy is made. - Noted the Tobacco Retail Ordinance was moved to the next city council meeting. - They will be discussing the Community Promotional Fund Measure Q. - The next meeting will be March 25 at 5:00 PM.
- Homeward Bound will be meeting on March 12 at 5:00 PM.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended Lenwood Elementary School's annual safety plan with the Fire Dept. on February 19. - Attended the Town Hall Meeting.
- Attended Henderson Elementary’ s annual safety plan on February 20. - Attended Jay Obernolte event at Barstow Community College on February 21. - Attended San Bernardino County Transit Authority Mountain Desert Division. - Attended the Barstow Cleanup Day at Lillian Park on February 22. - Attended a Mayors panel in memory of Black History Month at Victor Valley College on February 25. - Attended the Barstow Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee on February 26. - Presented a Certificate to First Baptist Church for their 8th Anniversary on March 2nd.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Motioned, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS to see a follow up on the fire hydrants. - Thanked Finance Director for being back on schedule with Accounts Payable.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked Fire Chief when was the last time an inspection was done to the fire hydrants. - Motioned, seconded by MAYOR SILVA to receive treasurers report from Treasurer Mr. Lewis. - Motioned, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE for staff to work with the Senior Citizens regarding applications and funds available to them.
FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS
- Mentioned they will have to reach out to Golden State Water to get a report and see when was the last time they were served.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Requested a quarterly Treasurers Report from Treasurer, Mr. Lewis. - Spoke about cannabis funds would like an internal audit and would like this to be put it on the agenda.
Minutes-March 3, 2025
- Asked what is the plan on the streets.
- Mentioned there is a problem with management and would like a staff report from all sections of the city where we’re understaffed, second by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE ask to when he would like to see this report.
- Would like to see this report on next city council meeting. - Mentioned there are some questions on where he lives, clarified he lives in District 4.
CITY ATTORNEY SUMMERS
- Suggested this can be item number one on the new city manager agenda.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned they had an amazing Town Hall meeting lots of great questions. - Invited the public and council to attend the next Town Hall meeting. - Asked for an update on VVTA on Arbor Way.
- Asked staff to assist the Seniors Centers with the application process second to COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE's the recommendation.
- Asked the mayor and council to consider a resolution to set a meeting with CONGRESSMAN OBERNOLTE and COUNTY SUPERVISOR DAWN ROWE because we want to see the cemetery fixed and will like to involve the Cemetery Committee second by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS. - Asked where the application is for the Measure Q committee. - Asked where in the website the application can be found. - Noted she search the whole page and did not found, asked this to be available to the public.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Explained the application period ends on March 4th, and they had received 6 applications. - Noted the application is on the website under the Measure Q section and also was added on the calendar of events news.
MAYOR SILVA
- Accepted Mr. GILBERT ASA's apology.
- Spoke about the Fire Hydrants, wants to see Golden State Water's procedures and policies for inspections as well as reports, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS. - Mentioned he did not change the meeting he is running the meetings by Rules of Order. - Spoke about the Treasurers Report, explained there are not going to see fund balances they are going to see where investments are going.
- Noted council will direct staff to answer the public's questions without violating the Brown Act.
ADJOURNMENT:
By the consensus of the City Council and without objection the Regular Meeting was adjourned at 10:17 P.M. Council continued with closed session immediately after the end of the Regular Meeting and adjourned at 11:10 P.M. Report of closed session will be done at the next city council meeting.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office