BARSTOW CITY COUNCIL /
BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
MAY 6, 2025
6:00 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
JOINT SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes-May 6, 2025
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the closed session meeting to order at 6:00 PM PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE 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.SPEAKERS:
NO SPEAKERS
Minutes-May 6, 2025
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 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: 1
2. 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
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS, reported the following:
- The council met in closed session to discuss two items, the first one regarding anticipated litigation and the second one regarding a conference with labor negotiators direction was provided to counsel with no reportable action 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
INVOCATION:
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE led the invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
ROLL CALL:
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
Timothy Silva Mayor Present
James M. Noble Council Member Present
John Williams Council Member Present
Carmen Hernandez Council Member Present
Barbara Mae Rose Mayor Pro Tem 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.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PRESENTATIONS:
3. QUARTERLY TREASURER'S REPORT - OCT 2024 - DEC 2024
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
CITY TREASURER MIKE LEWIS
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that an update is coming to explain Restricted Funds. - Mentioned that during the budget process when the investment policy is presented for its annual update, a resolution will also be presented to the council to recommend that the Finance Director, Sydnie Harris will be named Deputy City Treasurer.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked how much money is in the Measure Q Fund.
- Why has it taken over a year to bring the quarterly report forward?
QUESTIONS
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked if the Treasurer's Report was available online. - Recommended that the City Treasurer be present at the City Council Meetings.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that the Treasurer's Report was available to the public when the current agenda was posted on the city's website.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked how the city got the 31 Million Dollars for investments. - Asked if the city is currently investing any money.
- Asked if any Measure Q money is being invested and if the sole purpose of these funds was for investments.
- Asked how much of the Measure Q money is being invested. Would like to see those figures available.
CITY TREASURER MIKE LEWIS
- Clarified that this is money the city obtains through property taxes, sales taxes, gas taxes, etc. - Mentioned currently the city has money invested in LAIF, which is through the State and the California Class Investment, which both earn about 4% interest rate.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified Measure Q was part of the General Fund, so when they look at the account balance, they look at the overall account balance.
CITY ATTORNEY, MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Mentioned Measure Q was passed by the voters for the money to be spent on the funds that were part of the ballot measure, which is a general tax. - Noted the Finance Department does allocate the interest earned to Measure Q or Measure I, noted the money does get tracked back to where the money came from.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that this is very similar to having money in a savings account that is earning interest and can be transferred to a checking account when needed.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS, to add these additional reports to the investment report.
COMMENTS
COUNCIL MEMBERS HERNANDEZ
- Would like to see a Measure Q training to explain the intent of the measure, and would like the City Attorney to be present for clarification.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
Minutes-May 6, 2025
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
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Clarified that the 1.6 Million Dollars for the Fire Engine has to be paid up front. - Asked why the collected interest from the different accounts had not been reported. - Asked for information regarding the new Assistant City Manager. - Asked why city accounts had not been monitored.
- Would like to see more accountability from staff.
- Expressed concerns with the council members and code enforcement. - Would like to see the city's properties get cleaned.
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns with the lack of handicap parking spaces in front of the city offices. - Noted, city vehicles should not take parking spaces in the front parking lot. - Congratulated the council for their selection of the planning commissioners.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about an article in the newspaper and expressed his concerns with the lack of accountability from the council.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about issues she was having with code enforcement. - Thanked the staff for cleaning a public area across from her property. - Expressed concerns with the new changes on the agenda and with the City Treasurer not being available at the meetings when requested by the public.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns with the lack of handicap carts at local stores, would like to see the city do something about it.
- Spoke about an article in the newspaper regarding the Barstow League Leadership. - Asked why the City Treasurer does not attend the city council's regular meetings. - Expressed concerns with the lack of response from staff.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked if cannabis money has been invested.
- Asked why there is no appeal process to address the people. - Asked for the policy for the Measure Q members' terms and requirements.
KATHIE AGUAYO, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns with her vehicle being towed without a reason.
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 comments on consent.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
MINUTES ALL AGENCIES:
4. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL TRAINING MEETING - MARCH 31, 2025, 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
5. MINUTES JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - APRIL 7, 2025, AT 5:00 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
6. MINUTES REGULAR MEETING - APRIL 21, 2025, 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:
7. RATIFICATION OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE EXPENDITURES
Recommended Action:
Approve and ratify expenses, as audited, checks #99110-99418 totaling $6,020,428.22 and wires #1116-1125 totaling $622,007.86, per the Agency breakdown below:
City: $6,458,635.78
Fire: $183,000.30
Successor Agency: $0.00
Grand Total: $6,642,436.08
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CITY COUNCIL:
8. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW DECLARING ITS
INTENTION TO SET THE TIME, DATE AND PLACE FOR A PROTEST HEARING FOR PROPERTY ABATEMENT COSTS AND PENALTIES FOR MAY 20, 2025 AT 7:00 PM. APN # 0181-091-05-0000 & 0181-091-27-0000
Minutes-May 6, 2025
Recommended Action:
Approve Resolution No. 5214-2025, setting the date and time for a protest hearing for Property Abatement Costs and Penalties for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers and waive the full reading for APN # 0181-091-05-0000 & 0181-091-27-0000.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
9. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW DECLARING ITS
INTENTION TO SET THE TIME, DATE AND PLACE FOR A PROTEST HEARING FOR PROPERTY ABATEMENT COSTS AND PENALTIES FOR MAY 20, 2025 AT 7:00 PM. APN # 0181-247-04-0000
Recommended Action:
Approve Resolution No. 5215-2025, setting the date and time for a protest hearing for Property Abatement Costs and Penalties for Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers and waive the full reading for APN# 181-241-04-0000.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
DISCUSSION / ACTION ON DEFERRED ITEMS:
NONE
BUSINESS / ACTION ITEMS:
10. APPROVAL OF PROPOSED MURAL DESIGNS – MCLB BARSTOW MURAL AT 621 E. MAIN
STREET & EARTH DAY ELECTRICAL BOX MURAL AT THE CORNER OF BARSTOW ROAD
AND VIRGINIA WAY
Recommended Action:
Approve the proposed mural renderings
1. MCLB Barstow Mural located at 621 E. Main Street &
2. Earth Day Mural on the Electrical Box at the Corner of Barstow Road and Virginia Way
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ & MAIN STREET MURALS
REPRESENTATIVE JANE LARAMAN-BROCKHURST
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
- Thanked Main Street Murals for all the work they do.
DISCUSSION
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked which school will be next?
- Noted she is looking forward to the next project.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
MAYOR SILVA
- Noted he attended one of their tours, which was a great experience.
MAIN STREET MURALS REPRESENTATIVE JANE LARAMAN-BROCKHURST - Mentioned they have tours on the 3rd Saturday of the month, and they meet at the Fountain outside US Bank.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
11. AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PUBLIC FACILITY VENTILATION UPGRADES AT THE CORA HARPER COMMUNITY CENTER PROJECT TO ALLISON MECHANICAL INC. PROJECT #2024-1000
Recommended Action:
1. City staff recommends that the City Council award the contract to Allison Mechanical, Inc. for the ventilation upgrades at the Cora Harper Community Center Project (“Project’).
2. Approve an overall budget of $1,781,010, inclusive of a 5% contingency.
3. Approve the allocation of $316,344 in CDBG-CV (COVID-19) funds, $140,281 in unprogrammed CDBG funds, and the reallocation of $222,739 in CDBG funds originally designated for the ADA Curb Ramps and Infrastructure Improvements Project to the Cora Harper HVAC Improvement Project.
4. Acknowledge the existing CDBG award of $213,809 for the Project.
5. Authorize City staff to pursue additional funding sources to cover the remaining project cost balance, including a 5% contingency.
6. Request the City Council authorize an additional appropriation of $887,837 from Measure Q to cover the unfunded project balance
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH & CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE
CLAYTON
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained that the city had the opportunity with the financing of the fire truck to pay the entire amount of 1 million and 20 thousand dollars in smaller amounts. - Noted one of the options was to pay $150,000 annually over 20 years, which would free up the remaining balance of the $1,020,000 to pay for other projects. - Noted her recommendation was to finance the fire truck to allow the opportunity not to hinder cash flow and have more opportunities to obtain other assets if necessary, vs paying cash out of pocket for the full amount.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if there are other funds available for use, like CDBG funds. - Asked how long it will take to complete this project. - Expressed concerns about how the tariffs will affect this project. - Noted she was concerned about the city not having a cooling center.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified that there are funds available in CDBG that need to be spent, or the county will penalize the city for not spending them.
- Mentioned that there will be temporary cooling systems installed at the gym to get through the hotter months, and to allow the contractor to receive and install all the necessary equipment. - Noted that the approximate fee for renting the temporary cooling system is about $15,000 a Minutes-May 6, 2025
month.
- Clarified that the Gym will be closed during construction.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked what this project will do with the Measure Q Funds.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained that by the year-end 2024 Measure Q balance was $500,000, and this was because the fire engine had not been paid for yet.
- Noted that the city will still need another $890,000 to complete the need for this project. - Mentioned that there are funds available from Measure Q, but the budget process is not finished to determine the exact number.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked when the CDBG funds had to be spent.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained how the CDBG funds get allocated.
- Clarified that a decision needs to be made as soon as possible.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked if they considered adding individual heating and cooling systems for each room. - Asked why the cannabis money cannot be moved over to complete this project. - Noted, other options have not been pursued, and would like to know why.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified that there are exchange units in each room. - Noted, there are not mini-splits, but they all have exchangers in each room, so they have individual units in each room.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked for further clarification on the financing option for the fire truck.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified that if the fire truck gets the financing option, the discount will still be applicable.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, to pay for the needs of the Cora Harper Fitness Center using Measure Q funds.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
12. ADOPT CITY COUNCIL POLICY MEMORANDUM #2025-20, CANNABIS COMMUNITY
BENEFIT PROGRAM POLICY
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council:
1. Provide the percentages to which Cannabis Community Benefit Program funds can be allocated to City Projects, City-Sponsored Events, and Repairs, Maintenance and/or Upgrades.
2. Adopt City Council Policy Memorandum #2025-20, Cannabis Community Benefit Program Policy, with the inclusion of the suggested percentages agreed upon by the City Council, as per the aforementioned recommended action.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS
HELDRETH
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked on Page 151 who proposed the Cannabis Community Benefit Program Percentage Examples?
- She would like to see most of the cannabis money going back to the community and not to city projects.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked for more clarification regarding funds for public safety.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained that public safety includes Police and Fire, but this also refers to the safety of the public in the parks and roads.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified that there are approximately $130,000 available for public safety.
MAYOR SILVA called for a recess at 8:52 pm
The meeting resumed at 9:01 P.M. with all members present.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked how much money is available from the 3% of cannabis funds for public safety. - Would like to see where the money was spent.
- Mentioned she does not believe they have all the necessary information to make an informed decision.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified that the total revenue received as of this day was $91,937.00, the total spent was $63,000.00, with a remaining balance of $28,000.00.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified the accounting systems breakdowns of the two significant cannabis fees, 3% for the retailers' fee, and the second is the $5.00 Sq. Ft facility fee on the non-retailers.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified this is specifically to the Cannabis Community Benefit Program Policy, which has a balance of $777,000 that needs to be allocated.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Mentioned that this draft is focusing only on the Community Benefit fee and not the other fees. - Noted the council had already adopted a policy in the form of the budget on how to spend the $5.00 Sq. Ft. fee and the 3% fee on the retailers.
- Mentioned that the council already adopted a resolution in 2022 that requires that half of the operating fees be spent on public safety.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked for more clarification on the percentage chart presented.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified the purpose of the different types of cannabis fees. - Explained the purpose of the chart presented.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
- Mentioned that the fund balance can roll over to the next fiscal year.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Clarified this refers to new City projects, not to maintain current facilities. Also clarified that when it refers to events, they are talking about new events and not existing community events.
MAYOR SILVA
- Asked what was the cost of running a committee meeting.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked for clarification, stating this item was confusing. - Noted, this fund should benefit the community as a whole.
TIFFANY GIBBONS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns with staff and council, and the way they want to spend cannabis money.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned that she agrees with Mrs. Gibbons.
Motion by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE, to put 80% to new city projects, 15% for city-sponsored community events (new events only), and 5% to repairs, maintenance, and/or upgrades. And to include CCBP Committee. VOTE 4 - 1 Approved Cannabis Community Benefit Program Percentages
New City Projects 80%
New City-Sponsored Community Events 15%
Repairs, Maintenance, and/or Upgrades to New Projects 5% Subsequent motion by MAYOR SILVA, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, to put 80% to new city projects, 15% for city-sponsored community events (brand new events), and 5% to repairs, maintenance, and/or upgrades, and to remove CCBP Committee. VOTE 3 - 2 FAILED
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked for the reason for removing the committee.
MAYOR SILVA
- Stated the reason is that the original policy order never called for a committee, and there is a cost for a committee, and he believes the council had to be able to make decisions without a committee.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Clarified that a committee is to tell the council what they want, and to be transparent.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned she agreed with COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS.
- Noted, there is a need for a committee for Cannabis Community Benefit Program funds.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
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. ASSESSMENT AND FUNDING NEEDS FOR SPORTS PARK FIELD IMPROVEMENTS Recommended Action:
Staff is requesting direction from the City Council on the following:
1. Should staff explore the possibility of pausing or reprioritizing other planned repairs in order to reallocate approximately $125,000 for the Sports Park field improvements within the current fiscal year?
2. If immediate funding is not available, should the Sports Park field improvements be prioritized for consideration during the FY 2025-26 budget planning process?
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT THOMAS ALVA
- Explained the condition of the two bottom fields at the Sports Park. - Explained the repairs his team had done to make the fields safer and efficient for players. - Clarified that there were not enough funds or time to repair all fields simultaneously.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked why the bottom field was not repaired when the upper fields were repaired. - Asked when they will be able to do the bottom fields and get them completed. - Asked if there are funds available for the repairs.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified funding was the council's choice of which fields would get repaired at that time.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Noted staff decided not to do those fields because the season was starting; this was a strategic move to keep the fields in operation.
- Mentioned they did Lillian Park, the top fields at the Sports Park, and currently they are working at Foglesong Park, doing the lights.
- Noted that if funding is available, the season ends in July, and they can start the project then. - Clarified they are currently working in another field, so they will need to complete that project to be able to start a new one.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained that funds were already allocated for this project, but not sure if the fence expenses were included in the budget.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Mentioned that if staff has identified a hazard, then the public cannot be allowed to remain using the area that is been identified as a hazard, and this needs to be addressed immediately.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified this includes closing down any fields and areas that have been identified as hazards. - Noted that the council can allocate additional funding as the council sees fit from available funding sources to cover repairs.
- Mentioned that the City Manager and Staff can decide what represents a risk for public safety. - Noted that an inspection is necessary to address the condition of the parks.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Noted that if these fields are a hazard, then management needs to find an alternative. - Would like to see a complete evaluation on the safety of the fields, and if these are unsafe, then an alternative schedule needs to be arranged for the players to use other fields.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON.
- Mentioned they can schedule an emergency inspection immediately to assess the situation.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Spoke about the hazards that had been corrected.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, to end discussion and a "call for question". VOTE 3-2
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Noted, he does not understand what they did.
- Asked why the fence has not been repaired.
- Asked where the money to repair fields and parks is coming from. - Does not agree that all expenses are coming out of Measure Q.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Noted, it will be easier to temporarily fix the fence and wait to fix the fields until after the season is over.
- Asked what the liability will be if someone gets hurt. - Asked how long it will take to fix the fields and if a temporary arrangement can be made for the remainder of the season.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained that no vote has been taken for this agenda item. - Mentioned the vote was to end the discussion.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ to TABLE this item. VOTE 3-2
RESULT: TABLED
14. UPDATE TO THE CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION PLAN TO AMEND
UNREPRESENTED POSITIONS, WITH NO BUDGET IMPACT
Recommended Action:
1. Approve Resolution No. 5216-2025 to update the Classification and Compensation Plan to include the positions of Administrative Services Director and Police Chief; and
2. Approve the unrepresented, at-will position of Administrative Services Director and job description.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked what the cost was to reclassify this position.
- Asked what the projection was for TOTs for year-end 2025 Minutes-May 6, 2025
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained that the position is unfilled and there will be no budget impact. - Explained the salary savings for the unfilled positions. - Mentioned that the total amount of savings for unfilled positions exceeds the last revenue on the sales tax.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified that the revenue projection for TOT for FY2025 was accurate; for this reason, no adjustment was necessary.
SPEAKERS
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns with one person having multiple roles and responsibilities. - Does not agree with cutting those positions at the expense of the public.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed his concerns with the vacant positions and wanted to know the number of employees coming onboard.
- Who is monitoring the current contracts.
- Noted, more employees are needed, but it cannot be afforded.
QUESTIONS
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked if this will alleviate some of the workflow for the current staff.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked if the PIO position is being eliminated.
MAYOR SILVA
- Asked for the number of positions proposed.
- Asked who would be monitoring contracts.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified these positions will alleviate some of the workflow for current staff. - Noted the PIO position is not getting eliminated, it will remain on the pay schedule. - Mentioned that the total budgeted positions for the City Manager's office are 5 positions, and she would like to fill only 4 positions.
- Explained she would like to have herself, the Assistant City Manager's Position, if approved, the Administrative Services Director position, and the Executive Assistant for the City Manager reclassified to the higher level.
- Mentioned they are looking at the contract monitoring policy, mentioned the Finance Department is in the process of onboarding a position that could assist with that process. - Noted that the reason the position will not get eliminated is for future use. - Explained that if removed can cause future issues if the city fills that in the future.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Noted that not only do contracts need to be monitored, but also grants.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
15. PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON DRAFT ORDINANCE REGARDING SMOKE SHOPS AND
TOBACCO STORES PRIOR TO PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW
Recommended Action:
That the City Council provide direction to staff regarding potential changes to the proposed draft ordinance regulating smoke shops and tobacco stores as land uses and amending the Barstow Municipal Code to add a new chapter 9.74 and amending sections 19.14.030, 19.16.020, and
19.030 for further consideration by the Planning Commission.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON & CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS - Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified that this agenda item was presented for discussion only, and this is agendized for approval.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked how many smoke shops are currently operating in Barstow.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained that there is a total of 13 smoke shops operating in Barstow, and they are setting the limit to 10.
- Mentioned that the 13 will remain in business, and if a shop is sold, they can continue to operate, but if they were to close and remain closed for over six months, then there will be no more licenses available to operate within the city limits.
MAYOR SILVA
- Noted on page 5 of the ordinance, there are currently 11 smoke shops. - Asked when this ordinance will go to the planning commission. - Asked what the distance was between smoke shops and public schools.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Noted, this ordinance will go to the next Planning Commission Meeting on May 12th, 2025. - Stated Smoke shops and tobacco stores shall not be located within 1,000 feet, measured from front door to front door, from a school (public or private), family day care home, childcare facility, youth center, community center, recreational facility, park, church or religious institution, hospital, or other similar uses where children regularly gather.
- Clarified that these special rules do not apply to stores that sell a minor amount of tobacco.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if all the owners of these businesses were notified. - Asked for more clarification on the legacy shop rules.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked for more clarification on the legacy shop rules. - Noted current owners were notified, and they voiced their opinions and concerns to the committee.
- Mentioned the committee heard them and made necessary changes to have no effect current business.
- Noted after verifying the correct number of current businesses, the ordinance will be changed to reflect that number.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Noted that when this was presented to Rules and Policy for approval, current owners were protected.
SPEAKERS
EUGENE BUTTICCI, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Thanked the council and staff as all of his questions had been answered.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned he is glad to see the changes made.
- Expressed concern with minors being sold vaping products and would like to know who is monitoring that, as well as cannabis candies being sold to kids. - Asked if a business gets caught selling vaping or cannabis products to minors, can their license be revoked?
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Noted, she is glad this ordinance was corrected.
- Commended the staff and council for their job on this ordinance. - Spoke about a box of cannabis candy an 8-year-old gifted her and expressed concerns with the easy access of this type of product to kids.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Expressed that the Police Department monitors compliance for the sale of cannabis and tobacco products.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained that there is a process to revoke a license if proven that a retailer is selling products to minors.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Expressed concerns with comments made against these retailers, stating they are selling these products to minors.
- Noted, these minors might be getting these products some other way.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Stated she is grateful for the outcome of this ordinance. - Expressed concerns about the consumption of these products by teenagers.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, to suspend the rules 5-0
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Summarized the recent changes to the ordinance.
MAYOR SILVA
- Gave direction to staff to present this ordinance as presented tonight to the Planning Commission Meeting on May 12, 2025.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that the correct number of businesses within the city limits will be confirmed and added to the ordinance.
- Mentioned there was a definition that was not clarified, which will be added as well.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
16. 860 WEST MAIN STREET - GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (PGPA-25-0001) AND ZONING DISTRICT CHANGE (PZCA-25-0001) ORDINANCE INTRODUCTION AND FIRST READING Recommended Action:
RECOMMENDATION:
Conduct a public hearing and consider staff & Planning Commission recommendations to approve both the request for a Zone District Change under PZCA-25-0001 and its proposed ordinance No. 1030-2025 and General Plan Amendment under PGPA-25-0001 and its proposed resolution No. 5217-2025 to allow for change from C (Commercial) to DU (Diverse Use) zoning and land use designation.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST GENESIS CRANK
- Presented the staff report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked if the property owner started renovations.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST GENESIS CRANK
- Clarified that staff would not allow for any renovation to start until the proposal gets approved.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Stated there was a fire at the property when renovations started with the previous owner. - Noted the current new owner has a different vision for the property.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked for some clarification regarding the amendments to the General Plan.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST GENESIS CRANK
- Clarified that the Planning Commission can make 4 amendments to the General Plan a year. - Noted, this will be the first amendment of the year.
- Noted, once approved, she will be required to update the General Plan maps.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked when this was approved by the Planning Commission. - Asked why the resolution was not signed.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST GENESIS CRANK
- Clarified this was approved on March 24.
- Explained the reason why the resolution was not signed.
MAYOR SILVA OPENED THE PUBLIC HEARING AT 11:08 P.M.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned is nice to see this project coming up, would like to see more projects like this one coming up in the near future.
EUGENE BUTTICCI, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke in support of the project.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked the council to clean up the neighborhood around that area. - Asked what is going to be done about the extra traffic coming in with this project.
MAYOR SILVA CLOSED THE PUBLIC HEARING AT 11:12 P.M.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified some of the concerns of Mrs. Weasma.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATES:
No comments.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- None.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Mentioned that the Military Affairs Meeting will be on May 13 at Los Domingos at 8:00 A.M. - VVTA will be meeting on May 19th at 9:30 A.M. at City Council Chambers.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Attended the League of Cities in Big Bear, where they discussed funding for firefighters and insurance costs in zero zones.
- They spoke about funding for the railroad and the new BIG project.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Attended Rules and Policy on April 29, where they discussed the Tobacco Retail Ordinance and the Cannabis Community Benefit Program Policy.
- Next meeting will be on May 27, 2025, at 5:00 P.M.
- Homeward Bound Meeting will be on May 8 at 5:00 P.M.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended on April 30th the Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee Meeting. - Attended on May 1st and 2nd the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Conference Committee.
- Meet with City Manager Clayton and new Director for SBCTA Carrie Schindler talked about funding for local streets.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Mentioned Street Committee Meeting will be on May 7, and invited all to attend. - Congratulated the Museum on their great event on May 3rd. - Spoke about the Family Day Event at Saint Joseph's Church. - Spoke on the status report on the hydrants from Golden State Water, released on March 17, stating the last inspection was done in 2019.
- Wanted to know when the next inspection will be, and if there were any issues with the hydrant's Minutes-May 6, 2025
water pressure.
- Spoke about Mrs. Aguayo's concerns, would like to see a follow-up.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Spoke about Mrs. Aguayo's concerns.
- Mentioned he attended Fuzzy's Tacos pre-opening, noted it is a great place to eat. - Asked staff re-look at the vendors on Main Street and expressed concerns with tents popping up. - Addressed Mr. Brown's comments, noting he had never seen the video he referred to. - Planning to attend the Main Street Murals tour.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- None.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Motioned, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS to bring back the Fire Engine agenda item to consider financing with the short-term payout.
- Noted she attended the pre-opening and grand opening for Fuzzy’s Tacos, the re-opening of Pit Stop, and the National Day of Prayer.
- Talked about upcoming events in the city.
- Mentioned she never saw the video Mr. Brown referred to. - Would like to close the meeting in memory of a local family recently affected by a tragedy.
MAYOR SILVA
- Noted he was invited to a Women's Council on April 25th at Barstow Church of God in Christ, thanked them for the welcome.
- Attended the Birthday Party for all the Veterans for that month at the Veterans Home. - Attended the ribbon cutting for Fuzzy's Tacos.
- Attended the MCLB for the retirement of four horses of the color guard. - Attended ribbon cutting for the Pit Stop.
- Attended Public Safety Fair.
- Addressed Mr. Weasma's comments regarding the parking lot at City Hall. - Asked what the status was about moving the bus stop to Williams. - Would like staff to start looking at the names of Veterans to name streets with new developments coming to town.
- Would like to start with the names of the code talkers. - Would like to see the code talkers mural replaced or re-touched.
STAFF REPORTS:
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented the City Manager Update.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Would like to see the goal setting for the upcoming budget be presented to council as soon as possible.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS:
No comments.
Minutes-May 6, 2025
ADJOURNMENT:
The council took a moment of silence for the local family recently affected by a tragedy. By the consensus of the City Council and without objection, the meeting was adjourned at 11:44 PM.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office the City Clerk’s office