REGULAR MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
MARCH 17, 2025
5:30 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
Minutes-March 17, 2025
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the closed session meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MAYOR SILVA 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 5:33 PM
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 17, 2025
SPEAKERS:
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about the status of Police Chief.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained the City of Barstow is taking applications for the future Police Chief position. - Noted Police Chief Mr. Espinoza remains on paid administrative leave. - Mentioned the present Acting Police Chief is Daniel Arthur 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 NEGOTIATORS
Recommended Action:
Conference with Labor Negotiators (Gov. Code § 54957.6) City & District Negotiators: City Manager/District Manager Rochelle Clayton Employee Organizations:
Unit 1 - Teamsters Local 1932
Unit 2 - Teamsters Local 1932
Unit 3 - Barstow Police Officers’ Association
Unit 5 - Barstow Professional Firefighters Association
Unit 6 - Barstow Management Employees’ Association
Unit 8 - Barstow Police Department Management Association All Unrepresented Employees
2. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Recommended Action:
(Government Code Section 54957)
Title: City Manager
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 City Council met in closed session to discuss three items, conference with labor negotiator for all units and unrepresented employees, performance evaluation and goals settings for the city manager, 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.
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 7:00 PM
Minutes-March 17, 2025
INVOCATION:
PASTOR WILLIE SMITH from HIGH DESERT COMMUNITY OUTREACH gave the invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER HEIDY RILEY 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.
Staff recommended to table item 13 for further review.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE to approve agenda as amended.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PRESENTATIONS:
4. CANNABIS REVENUE PRESENTATION
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, HEIDY RILEY
- Gave a presentation on the Community Benefits Fund. A copy of the presentation will be made a part of the minutes.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked if FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS knew about the public safety funding and the amount of money available to them.
- Asked why these funds had not been used.
- Noted the public safety funds had not been used.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified many of these funds had been utilized out of the General Fund. - Mentioned that community benefit funds are sitting in the account because the city council does not have a policy directing staff on how to utilize those funds. - Noted for FY2026 a line item will be added for the safety funds. - Mentioned staff does not know those numbers until these funds are collected and this is when those funds are appropriated.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested a printout of this presentation.
- Requested in the future for the 3% public safety funds to ensure the Fire Chief is present at the table to be informed of funds available.
CITY MANAGER, ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified moving forward all departments are going to be involved in the budget process to be informed of funds available.
- Noted workshops will be presented to keep the public informed as well.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Noted this is not defined because this is a 3% fee, this is not a tax. Noted 1.5% goes to public safety and 1.5% goes to the city's general fund.
- Explained the police department's role with the cannabis division.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Mentioned Rules and Policy is currently working on a policy on how the community promotional funds component is to be allocated by the council, this does not govern the general fund 3% fee. - Noted the council can put two together but currently, they are just working on the community promotional fund.
- Clarified the council can create an additional policy defining how the 3% should be allocated. - Mentioned the council can set a policy on how the money can be spent.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Would like to see these funds be spent appropriately. - Asked if there is documentation and data to show how much overtime for illegal cannabis activities the police department has.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Noted there is a specific code for when a task force is put together related to cannabis operations.
INTERIM POLICE CHIEF, DANIEL ARTHUR
- Clarified overtime is when a specific officer assigned to a detail is on an off day that is when the overtime is created.
- Mentioned they had approximately 2-4 officers enforcing illegal activities.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Noted a budget workshop is in need of clarification.
CITY MANAGER, ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Mentioned there will be a budget workshop.
- Noted the goal is to report to the council on a quarterly basis to have some indications through the year as to where the city is with the budget revenues.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked what is being done about the odor.
- Thanked COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS for requesting this item to be brought up. - Would like to see more accountability with the money given to the city. - Would like to see more detail on expenditures.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Welcomed the new city manager.
- Noted there is a need for a cannabis board.
- Mentioned there should be some rules on how to spend that money. - Would like to see some of this money go to buying a paving machine to repair the city's roads. - Expressed his concerns with the quality of the products these companies are selling. - Would like to see some of this money go to non-profits, local kid’s services, and some emergencies.
TIFFANY GIBBONS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Clarified the cannabis dispensaries do get an inspection every three months with a fee of $550. - Spoke about the 3% fees for public safety and asked how much of this money is being put back into the community.
- Concerned about penalty fees and would like to know where these fees are, would like to see a separate line for these.
- Asked for a definition of public safety.
- Noted this money should have gone back to the community not to remodel the Police Department.
- Asked the city to do their part with the 3% revenue.
DISCUSSION
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Mentioned he was shocked by the information presented tonight.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked if fees for FY2025 are still being collected.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, HEIDY RILEY
- Noted these numbers represent fees collected until the end of February 2025.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned Rules and Policy had been busy addressing the total funds that should be spent into the community.
- Would like to move forward with a policy everyone can live with. - Noted Rules and Policy is working on a committee that will review the applicants to distribute those funds.
- Directed staff to separate the line items for late fees. - Motion to have Rules and Policy define public safety and where these funds can be spent seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
- Glad to see these cannabis businesses are handling customer service issues. - Glad to see staff is doing their inspections.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified the numbers staff had provided already included the penalties as part of the overall licenses line item.
- Noted staff can produce a revised item that breaks down all fees.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Mentioned all fees had already been identified but they all go into the same account.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, HEIDY RILEY
- Clarified these had been broken down in the audit but they are all sitting in one account but they can be moved into a different account.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if there is a charge when they have to re-inspect. - Asked who inspects the product.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Noted there is a charge if they have to re-inspect.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Mentioned the State Department of Cannabis Control regulates and inspects the product.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Mentioned the goal of this council is transparency.
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.
NO SPEAKERS
MINUTES ALL AGENCIES:
5. MINUTES REGULAR MEETING - JANUARY 21, 2025, AT 5:00 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
6. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - JANUARY 23, 2025, AT 8:00 A.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
7. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - JANUARY 23, 2025, AT 5:00 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
8. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - JANUARY 27, 2025, AT 5:30 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
9. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - FEBRUARY 3, 2025, AT 5:30 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
10. MINUTES REGULAR MEETING - FEBRUARY 11, 2025, AT 5:30 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
NONE
Minutes-March 17, 2025
CITY COUNCIL:
DISCUSSION / ACTION ON DEFERRED ITEMS:
NONE
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
11. FIRST READING AND INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW ADDING CHAPTER 5.55 TO TITLE 5 REGARDING TOBACCO RETAILER REGISTRATION.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW TO AMEND THE FY 2024/25 MASTER FEES SCHEDULE TO INCLUDE A REGULATORY PERMIT FEE FOR
TOBACCO RETAILERS
Recommended Action:
That the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 1029-2025 requiring registration of tobacco retailers and amending the Barstow Municipal Code to add a new chapter 5.55; and adopt an amendment to the Master Fees Resolution to add a tobacco retailer regulatory permit fee
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
QUESTIONS
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked when it would be appropriate to bring it back to Rules and Policy.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Noted council can give direction on that.
MAYOR SILVA opened the public hearing at 7:57 PM
SPEAKERS
EUGENE BUTTICCI, representing the BARSTOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - Expressed concerns with the distance between the retail outlets. - Requested the ordinance to be revised to better differentiate the retail outlets.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns with the ordinance and asked how the zoning would affect new owners. - Asked who will enforce this ordinance.
MOSAB SHOUBAR, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned he is a business owner in Barstow and explained how this ordinance will affect his business.
JEHAD HANTASH, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA (Daily Stop)
- Expressed his concerns and disagreement with this ordinance. - Explained how this ordinance will affect his business.
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed his disapproval of this ordinance.
- Noted the council has not presented any reason for this ordinance.
MAYOR SILVA did not close the public hearing but asked for motion to continue and take back to Rules and Policy.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
Motion by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE to continue this item and take it back to Rules and Policy for the March 25, 2025 Meeting. 5 - 0 RESULT: TABLED Next: 5/20/2025 6:00 PM
BUSINESS / ACTION ITEMS:
12. COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND APPLICATION FROM THE CALIFORNIA ROUTE 66
MOTHER ROAD MUSEUM
Recommended Action:
Approve a Community Promotional Fund cash donation in the amount of $2,850, along with inkind support valued at $1,370, to the California Route 66 Museum, contingent upon the applicant’s compliance with the Temporary Use Permit (TUP) process and fulfillment of business license requirements as outlined in the Barstow Municipal Code no later than March 18, 2025.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER, MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned event will be at the Harvey House on Saturday, March 22 at 10:00 AM.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked what it is going to be done with this donation.
BRENDAN O'BRIEN, a representative from ROUTE 66 MOTHER ROAD MUSEUM - Gave a rundown of the expenses incurred to organize this event.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Mentioned she is concern she does not see the 501c3 and in addition to this she does not see the budget report with the application.
- Expressed concerns with the application format.
- Asked about the rental agreement of the Harvey House with Route 66 Museum.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER, MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Mentioned when looking at the information at the Franchise Tax Board they look at the filing and that the filing is current.
- Noted they provided a breakdown of expenses.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified the Museum is not owned by the city.
Point of order called by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE to rule the question regarding lease of the Harvey House, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested application process to be consistent every time. - Would like to have a dead line for submitting documentation.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Mentioned application was submitted late.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER, MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Expressed her support for this event.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
CITY MANAGER, ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Expressed her support for this event.
- Mentioned she would like to review the policies and procedures.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Expressed concerns with giving out taxpayer’s money.
BRENDAN O'BRIEN, a representative from ROUTE 66 MOTHER ROAD MUSEUM - Mentioned the event will happen even without the cash donation in the amount of $2,850.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Noted staff needs to ensure the process is done correctly.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Noted the organization waited too long to submit documentation, noted this needs to change and organizations need to start submitting the correct documentation on time.
BRENDAN O'BRIEN
- Noted he is here to help the city, mentioned he started the process two months ago.
DISCUSSION
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Thanked Mr. O'Brien for his hard work and for what he is bringing to the city of Barstow.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Expressed his support for this event and concerns with giving out taxpayer’s money.
RESULT: APPROVED [4 TO 1]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Silva
NAYS: Hernandez
13. AWARD OF MEASURE Q YOUTH COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS FY 24-25 Recommended Action:
Recommended Action is staff requesting direction from the council.
RESULT: TABLED Next: 4/7/2025 5:00 PM
14. CONSIDERATION OF DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT TERMINATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL CANNABIS BUSINESS OPERATORS WINNERS CIRCLE HD, LLC; SKY CLUB HD, LLC; LA 2 VEGAS, INC.; BARSTOW COMPANY, INC.; 1919 BUILDING, INC.; GROW ORGANIC 5, INC.; GROW ORGANIC 6, INC.; GROW ORGANIC 11, INC.; GROW ORGANIC 12, INC.; MERCHANTS BARSTOW LLC; MERCHANTS BARSTOW 3 LLC; MERCHANTS BARSTOW 4 LLC; MERCHANTS BARSTOW 13 LLC; AND MERCHANTS BARSTOW 14 LLC Recommended Action:
That the City Council adopt resolutions terminating the development agreement with Winners Circle HD, LLC; Sky Club HD, LLC; LA 2 Vegas, Inc.; Barstow Company, Inc.; 1919 Building, Inc.; Grow Organic 5, Inc.; Grow Organic 6, Inc.; Grow Organic 11, Inc.; Grow Organic 12, Inc.; Merchants Barstow LLC; Merchants Barstow 3 LLC; Merchants Minutes-March 17, 2025
Barstow 4 LLC; Merchants Barstow 13 LLC; and Merchants Barstow 14 LLC (Attachments 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, 36, 39, and 42) and direct staff to take further steps to terminate the development agreements.
If the development agreements are terminated, then the City plans to assess its options for how to best use the properties.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office. - Clarified these twelve are up for termination for failure to pay required fees and not for the odor situation, this has been handled by AQMD.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified amendment that LA 2 Vegas, Inc. and Barstow Company, Inc. had paid the past due annual fees and had been removed from the list of proposed Development Agreement terminations.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked what the total cost of fees lost is.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Mentioned the renewal fees are $14,000 per operator and inspection fees $550 a quarter, but there is nothing to inspect because they did not move forward. - Noted they received their licenses but there are some issues between the property owners and the operators of the business and that is why they are walking away from the property.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked why staff waited so long.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained the application process for cannabis cultivation, manufacturing, etc., and the challenges these business had during this process.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained the next step after termination of the agreement with the State Bureau Department of Cannabis Control.
- Noted none of these twelve are currently in operations.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked if the city has any legal grounds to go after those lost funds.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Noted the city can pursue collection of those twelve entities.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR, CHRIS HELDRETH
- Mentioned these entities were specifically created for Barstow, for this reason, they are protected if the city goes after them.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked what the cost would be to the city going after them.
SPEAKERS
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked if staff spoke to any of the developers to know their side of the story.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
- Would like to see some of this money used for paving equipment and the roads. - Would like to see a cannabis commission.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked for more clarification on the twelve that are having their DDAs being revoked.
TIFFANY GIBBONS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Explained the reason why these businesses took so long. - Noted she is curious to know how many of each category are left. - Commended current cannabis businesses for their hard work.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
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.
TERESA TANK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke regarding the new Animal Control officer and hours of ACO training and asked the IT department to check the broken links on the City’s website.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about the smell at Lenwood Rd. and what the time frame to correct the air quality was and asked for an update on the fire hydrants.
JOE GOMEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Representing Friends of Barstow Cemetery.
- Asking for some help to restore the cemetery.
CECILIA CORDOVA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of the accomplishments of the committee.
- Invited all to attend the next meeting on Wednesday, March 19 at 4 pm at the cemetery.
DEBBIE AGUAYO, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Thanked the Council for hearing them and asked they support them by reaching out to the County Supervisors and Obernolte's office for help.
JOHN MONSEN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned he represents the Sierra Club and spoke about the Golden State Water agreement.
ET SNELL, NEWBERRY SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of the lack of handicapped shopping carts at our local big stores and the dilapidated houses in Barstow.
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about the letter he sent and asked legal for his response. - Expressed his concerns with code enforcement and claims he submitted.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Thanked Council Member Williams for assisting with the dog, asked about 911 dispatcher training, and asked for the officer's background.
IRA GWIN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned on February 12, he asked the city clerk how much the city had spent on legal fees against him and the Barstow Property Association.
- Expressed his discontent with the rental inspection ordinance and how the property owners had been treated.
MEGHAN CARDENAS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- President of the High School Football Booster Club thanked Mayor Pro Tem Rose, thanked Council Member Williams, and spoke of the equipment request, they need to keep the players safe.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Came to listen and is amazed at the concerns and issues happening in the City. - Would like to see her property back on the agenda as promised by Brad Merrill.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of the dog issues and thanked Council Member Williams, asked why the police chief was not involved, and asked that the police chief position be resolved.
ROBIN LARD, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke of the dog issue, and wanted to clarify the issues with the dog shooting.
STAFF REPORTS:
CITY MANAGER, ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Happy to be in Barstow working with Council and Staff to move the city forward.
FIRE CHIEF, CORY CISNEROS
- Gave an update on the fire hydrants.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Attended the Street Committee meeting on March 5.
- Gave an update on the Caltrans State Federal funding projects. - Mentioned the city of Barstow was awarded the Caltrans Highways Safety Improvement Program for $80,000.
- Noted the Mojave Air Quality is the one responsible for controlling the odor on Lenwood Rd. for the cannabis issue.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Attended the Military Affairs meeting on March 12, and spoke of the ongoing events in the community.
- Noted on May 16 Barstow Community College will have their graduation. - Mentioned on May 29 Fort Irwin will have their Graduation. - Mentioned there is a Veteran Representative every Thursday at 536 E Virginia from 9 am - 2 pm. - Noted BIG will be having a town hall meeting at First Baptist Church on March 20th, 6 - 8 pm. - Invited the public to attend the Veterans Resource Fair at Victor Valley College. - On April 12 the MCLB is having their Flee Market Extravagance from 7 am - 2 pm. - American Cruisers are having their Easter Spring Fling on April 18 from 5 - 8 pm. - MCLB is having its monthly music and art night.
- Attended the VVTA meeting on March 17, next meeting on April 21. - Next Military Affairs will be on April 9 at Los Domingo’s.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Nothing.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Attended the Rules and Policy Special Meeting on March 11 to discuss the Cannabis funding and staff have a better understanding of the direction regarding the policy, next meeting on March 25th will continue to discuss cannabis funding, will look and discuss Council Handbook, Community Promotional Fund, and Tobacco Ordinance hoping to complete that first. - Requested that Rules and Policy Committee meetings be recorded and provide minutes. - Attended the Homeward Bound meeting on March 13. The New Life Fellowship presented an update and requested a letter of appreciation to Desert Manna and KFC thanking them for their support.
- Mentioned Barstow Church of God in Christ, does a shower program on Wednesday and they donate undergarments to the homeless.
- For next month they are asking for donations of Rolls of quarters for the Laundry Love program and asking for donations of undergarments.
- Thanked staff for the resources calendar.
- Talked about the strategic master plan that was approved by the council, working on an update. - The next meeting will be on April 10 at 5 pm.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended the SBCTA on March 5 and spoke on upcoming projects. - Attended the Street Committee.
- Attended the Military Affairs March 12th
- Spoke about the Flee Market event and asked for support for the golf course. - Attended the Desert Mountain League of Cities in Victorville on March 14 with COUNCIL MEMBERS HERNANDEZ and WILLIAMS.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Requested CITY MANAGER CLAYTON speak to the senior’s center regarding Measure Q funding.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Requested staff review the information turn in regarding City Code Enforcement and Virginia Brown's property.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Commented about the police chief and the dog incident that happened over the weekend. - Thanked Public Works staff and said streets are looking better. - Mentioned he did express the public's concerns to Code Enforcement and said he is addressing the issues with staff.
- Spoke about Animal Control and said this did not happen overnight and it will take some time to fix there is not enough funding for the staff.
- Mentioned council and staff do care about animal control - Also spoke about the cemetery and understands issues with the cemetery.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Spoke of the new City Manager and elected official’s protocols. - Mentioned on March 3 she was approached with concerns regarding the cemetery and asked that the Council draft a letter or resolution and meet with county supervisor and congressional representative.
- Mentioned good education has come out regarding the cemetery. - Asked to obtain copies of the Measure Q applications. - Asked VVTA if the routes on Arbor Way are still happening and expresses concerns with safety.
Minutes-March 17, 2025
MAYOR SILVA
- Mentioned they will be asking for a resolution showing council support regarding the cemetery issues.
- Asked staff to revisit the cemetery MOU.
- Requested staff to check with engineering regarding Mrs. Brown easement. - Requested staff to bring back a report regarding the odor on Lenwood Rd. from the cannabis. - Requested council provide a report on the training for the ACO position.
ADJOURNMENT:
By the consensus of the City Council and without objection, the meeting was adjourned 10:27 PM in memory of Past City Council Member Manuel Gurule.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office