BARSTOW CITY COUNCIL /
BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
SEPTEMBER 16, 2025
5:15 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
JOINT SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes-September 16, 2025
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the closed session meeting to order at 5:15 PM.
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
Carmen Hernandez Council Member Present
Timothy Silva Mayor Present
PARTICIPATION IS INVITED : IF YOU WISH TO BE HEARD ON ANY ITEM ON THE AGENDA, PLEASE
SO INDICATE BY FILLING OUT A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD AND HANDING IT TO THE CITY CLERK PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM EING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
CODE OF ETHICS: AS YOUR ELECTED GOVERNING BOARD WE WILL REMEMBER THE "CODE OF ETHICS" THAT WE VOLUNTARILY AND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED. DURING THIS MEETING WE WILL TREAT EACH OTHER AND THE PUBLIC WITH PATIENCE, CIVILITY, AND COURTESY. THE DECISIONS
MADE TONIGHT WILL BE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE BARSTOW COMMUNITY AND NOT FOR PERSONAL GAIN.
PUBLIC COMMENT - CLOSED SESSION: THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC
TO ADDRESS THE GOVERNING BOARD ON MATTERS ON THE CLOSED SESSION AGENDA AND WITHIN THE CITY’S JURISDICTION. SPEAKERS ARE ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES OR LESS. ALL REQUESTS TO SPEAK MUST BE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM BEING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
SPEAKERS
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CA
- Requested a moment of silence for Mr. Charlie Kirk and his family. - Expressed concerns with CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON.
MOTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
Recommended Action:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL; EXISTING LITIGATION (Gov. Code § 54956.9(d)(1)) Christian Bryant, et al. v. City of Barstow, et al (California Central District Court 5:2023-cv-00123)
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
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR (GOV. CODE § 54956.8) Recommended Action:
Conference with Real Property Negotiator (Gov. Code § 54956.8) Property: 555 Melissa Ave, Barstow, CA 92311
Agency Negotiators: Rochelle Clayton, City Manager
Negotiating Party: Barstow Senior Citizen Center
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
4. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Recommended Action:
Public Employee Evaluation (Gov. Code § 54957)
Title: City Manager
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS reported the following:
- The council met in closed session to discuss four items. - Item 1: Concerning existing litigation, Christian Bryant v. City of Barstow, direction was given to staff and counsel, with no reportable action taken.
Close Session was adjourned and will be continued at the end of tonight’s Joint Special Meeting.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
Close session reconvened at 10:00 P.M.
- Item 2: Conference with Labor Negotiators (All Units) and all unrepresented employees. Direction was provided to labor negotiations, staff, and council and took no reportable action. - Item 3: Conference with Real Property Negotiator. Provided direction to staff and council, but took no reportable action.
- Item 4: City Manager Employee Performance Evaluation was continued to a Special Meeting, September 18, 2025 at 6:15 P.M.
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:
PASTOR LILLIE COOPER from IN HIS PRESENCE gave the invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
Timothy Silva Mayor Present
Barbara Mae Rose Mayor Pro Tem Present
James M. Noble Council Member Present
Carmen Hernandez Council Member Present
John Williams Council Member 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.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE motioned, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE to pull item 11 and table to next scheduled council meeting on October 7,2025.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PRESENTATIONS:
5. QUARTERLY TREASURER'S REPORT - JAN 2025 - MARCH 2025 Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
CITY TREASURER MIKE LEWIS
- Presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
6. QUARTERLY TREASURER'S REPORT - APRIL 2025 - JUNE 2025 Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
CITY TREASURER MIKE LEWIS
- Presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR SILVA
- Stated that staff have items to add to the treasurer's report. - A motion was made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE to suspend the rules to allow the City Manager to present the report, which was seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented the City Manager Update report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Requested clarification on the $32 million that was shown as available. - Asked for details on the total amount available to spend. - Inquired whether Measure Q funds had been invested.
- Asked who generates the treasurer's report.
- Requested the total monthly payroll.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that the $32 million indicated on the treasurer's report represents a fund balance made up of restricted funds.
CITY TREASURER MIKE LEWIS
- Stated that the $32 million is the total cash under his control to ensure its safety. - Noted that the two general fund accounts minus the reserve total $10 million, while the restricted funds amount is $16 million.
- Clarified that as of June 2025, the total available to spend is approximately $11 million. - Mentioned that the $11 million available is part of the budget recently passed by the council. - Clarified that the $11 million is included in the expenditures, so it is not extra money. - Explained that the only investments the city has are LAIF and California Class, without Minutes-September 16, 2025
differentiating the source of the funds.
- Noted that the standard report is a collaborative effort between him and the Finance Department.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained that the presentation was of a balanced budget, noting that the projected revenues for the 24/25 General Fund Budget are $39.1 million, while projected expenditures are $41 million.
Staff try to keep expenditures within the projected revenues. - Discussed the types of revenues the city receives throughout the year, indicating that the general fund budget is based on these projected revenues. - Noted that the fund balance is above what was budgeted, as it aligns with anticipated revenues throughout the year and acts as cash flow.
- Mentioned that as of June 30, the unallocated interest income on the fund balance report is $876,816.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained that the city operates on a bi-weekly pay period, with a monthly average payroll of about $1.8 million.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested that the information available to the council also be made available to the public. - Suggested updating the city’s website regarding financial information. - Asked for clarification on the difference between restricted and unrestricted funds. - Expressed concerns about hiring high-salary employees while the city remains understaffed for street workers.
- Raised concerns about expenditures exceeding the revenues projected in the general fund. - Requested clarification regarding the 202 Restricted Fund for Covid-19, amounting to ($14,628.76), and inquired about the reimbursable of these funds. - Requested clarification on the 215 Community Development Fund, which shows a negative amount of ($21,833.00).
- Expressed concerns about grant reimbursements totaling ($3,180,517.50), asking how many grants there are and when the funds would be reimbursed to the city. - Motioned, and seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS, for a compiled report on reimbursable grants.
- Requested clarification on the 362 Debt Services, which shows a negative balance of ($576,832.24).
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Explained that restricted funds have a specific purpose and time limit, and can be statemandated or council-driven. - Clarified that dollars received for specific activities must only be spent in accordance with those purposes.
- Mentioned that the Covid-19 funds represent an additional disbursement for the ARPA-funded cemetery restrooms, with one portion currently awaiting return. - Clarified that regarding the Community Development Fund, some awards were issued, and the county will reimburse those as they are CDBG funds, typically within 60 days after the fiscal year ends.
- Noted that this fund contains several grants, primarily related to street projects, with a significant portion dedicated to the First Ave Bridge, which is still in progress. - Explained that some debt service items are pre-payable and due on July 1. The report reflects payments made, but the accrual to correct the balance has not yet occurred, which will be shown in the next treasurer's report.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Added that two major restricted funds, aside from street-related items, are the enterprise funds:
the sewer account and the waste management funds, which are based on rates. - Explained that staff is working on identifying the sources of the reimbursable funds.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked for clarification regarding the grant details related to those funds and requested that the City Manager provide the quarterly update.
NO SPEAKERS
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
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
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Requested a moment of silence for Mr. Charlie Kirk and his family. - Expressed concerns about Mr. Lewis's attendance at regular meetings. - Inquired about the number of applicants for the Police Chief position. - Spoke about ongoing child abuse cases within the Barstow Unified School District and urged the council and police department to address these issues.
ANNA FUZIE, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Thanked the City Manager and staff for all the upgrades and support received at the Barstow Senior Center.
- Invited everyone to participate in the Holiday Meals for Thanksgiving, asking for donations of time and funds.
- Mentioned that they also deliver meals for Christmas and are seeking donations to continue this initiative.
ROBERT REID, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed a desire for more places where people can ride mini bikes and would like work with PD to allow them in the city.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that he was confused by the presentation and wanted to know if the city attorney was compensated for his services.
- Expressed concerns regarding the financing of the fire truck. - Voiced his support for the police department.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Thanked the council for their transparency.
- Raised concerns about the shortage of staff at Public Works and the high number of individuals hired for the city manager's office.
- Requested additional support for the police department staff.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
None.
CONSENT CALENDAR PUBLIC COMMENT : THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE GOVERNING BOARD ON ALL MATTERS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR.
SPEAKERS ARE ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS ON ALL CONSENT ITEMS TO THREE MINUTES OR LESS. ALL REQUESTS TO SPEAK MUST BE RECEIVED PRIOR TO THE AGENDA ITEM BEING ADDRESSED. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
MINUTES ALL AGENCIES:
NONE
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
NONE
CITY COUNCIL:
7. AWARD OF COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS TO THE BARSTOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR THE 2025 MAIN STREET USA FESTIVAL AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION 5244-2025 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW
TEMPORARILY CLOSING CERTAIN STREETS IN ACCORDANCE WITH CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE SECTION 21101(E) FOR THE MAIN STREET USA FESTIVAL Recommended Action:
1. That the Council approve in-kind donations in the form of fee waivers totaling $8,842.12 for the closure of Main Street between Barstow Road and 1st Avenue on October 11, 2025 and
2. Adopt Resolution No. 5244-2025, temporarily closing certain streets within the City of Barstow in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) for the Main Street USA Car Show, and waive the full reading.
SPEAKERS
EUGENE BUTTICCI, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Invited all to attend the 2025 Main Street USA Festival and mentioned some of the personalities that will be attending the event noted there will be live entertainment.
ROSE BEARDSHEAR, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Commended all those helping to organize this event.
- Mentioned the event starts at 7:00 AM with a fundraising pancake breakfast to raise money for fill the pantry.
- Noted the church receive a $360,000 grant from the county and got $1000 from Sam Manuel to finish some offices, noted there will be an open house to present services that will be provided. - Mentioned chief will have an office there that was assigned for the homeless. - Mentioned some of the organizations and their members that helped with the organization of this event.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
Minutes-September 16, 2025
8. AWARD OF COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS FOR LIFESTREAM BLOOD BANK Recommended Action:
That the City Council approve in-kind donations for the Monthly Barstow Bloodline Blood Drives for the period of October 2025 through October 2026, specifically fee waivers totaling $6,000 for the use of the Harvey House and $2,677.20 for permitting and inspection fees, for a combined total of $8,677.20
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
9. AWARD OF COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS FOR MOJAVE DESERT GEM AND
MINERAL SOCIETY
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the Council approve in-kind donations in the form of fee waivers totaling $2,473.10 for the use of the Harvey House during the Annual Mojave Desert Gem and Mineral Show, scheduled for December 5, 6, and 7, 2025.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
10. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 3 FOR AGREEMENT NO.19-1002193 WITH SAN
BERNARDINO COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (SBCTA) FOR RIMROCK ROAD
AND AGARITA AVENUE REHABILITATION PROJECT
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Approve Amendment No. 3 to Funding Agreement 19-1002193 for Rimrock Road and Agarita Avenue Rehabilitation Project (Attachment A).
2. Authorize the Mayor to execute Amendment No. 3 to Project Funding Agreement 19-1002193 for the Rimrock Road and Agarita Avenue Rehabilitation Project between the City of Barstow and the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA).
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
11. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE FEE SCHEDULE AND ADOPTING FEES FOR EQUIPMENT RENTAL FEES (FY 2025/2026)
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached Resolution No. ____-2025 amending the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Fee Schedule and adopting fees for Equipment Rentals, and waive the full reading.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
The staff indicated a desire to withdraw this item due to an error in the attachment. They would like to present a revised document to clarify the current changes at a future meeting.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
A motion to TABLE this item was made by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE and seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE. The vote passed with a 5-0
RESULT: TABLED Next: 10/7/2025 6:00 PM
12. APPROVAL OF PROCLAMATION IN SUPPORT OF THE BARSTOW CEMETERY, CALLING
ON FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL OFFICIALS TO SUPPORT RESTORATION AND
ASSISTANCE EFFORTS, AND DIRECTING STAFF TO STUDY THE FEASIBILITY OF CITY ASSISTANCE FOR THE BARSTOW CEMETERY.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Proclamation in support of the Cemetery.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- In the second paragraph, replace the word "Barstowians" with "Individuals". - Also include "Code Talkers" in the same paragraph.
- In the third paragraph, add the phrases "cultural heritage," "spiritual belief," and "societal values."
- In the last paragraph, add First District Supervisor Col. Paul Cook (Ret.) and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE motioned to approve consent agenda items 7-8-9-10-12 with the added changes to item 12 resolution, and the amended recommended action for item number 8, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified the reason for MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE's motion is that the agenda item number 8 was read in the same manner by the city clerk, but the public's posted agenda is different.
DISCUSSION / ACTION ON DEFERRED ITEMS: (ITEMS PREVIOUSLY TABLED OF PULLED FROM THE
CONSENT CALENDAR BY THE COUNCIL WILL BE CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNING BOARD AT THIS TIME).
BUSINESS / ACTION ITEMS:
13. APPROVAL OF FIVE INDIVIDUAL, NONEXCLUSIVE ON-CALL CIVIL ENGINEERING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE CITY OF BARSTOW AND: (1) DAVID EVANS & ASSOCIATES INC.; (2) EXP US SERVICES INC; (3) KPFF CONSULTING ENGINEERS; (4) MERRELL JOHNSON COMPANIES; AND (5) SOUTHSTAR | DCCM Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a five-year non-exclusive professional service agreement with each of the five selected engineering firms in substantially the form provided in Attachment 2, modified as necessary to accord with the RFP.
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute individual task orders under these agreements within the per contract not to exceed amount of $75,000 and within approved budget allocations and grant funding.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if there are any contingency fees.
- Inquired whether this will make it easier for the city to complete projects.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that the fees will be contingency-based depending on the project, but if costs exceed $75,000, it will need council approval.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained that there are no standby fees, retainers, or access fees. - Mentioned that there are just five firms on call, and the city will contact them when a project arises.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified that Merrell Johnson remains the city's contracted Engineering Firm. - Explained that the benefit of this approach is that if the city experiences a growth spurt or an increased demand for projects that exceeds the capacity of one firm, there will be other firms available to provide those services.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Asked how long the contracts would last and how available those firms will be.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Mentioned that the Request for Proposal (RFP) sent out by the city, in accordance with Caltrans guidelines, can last up to five years.
- Clarified that a firm can choose to discontinue providing services at any time, but the city will have access to these engineering firms for five years, as outlined in the RFP. - Stated that the city will issue another RFP when the current one is nearing expiration. - Highlighted that the firms' fees will be built into the project costs. - Mentioned that as part of the RFP, firms submitted a package detailing their expertise and rates.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked for the start and expiration dates of these agreements, and agreed to the termination clause.
SPEAKERS
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked if the agreement could be established for one year instead of five. - Expressed concerns regarding Caltrans.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Explained that the length of the agreement is in accordance with legal requirements and is intended to reduce costs associated with issuing RFPs and attracting firms to participate.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Added that this agreement also prevents engineers from incurring their own expenses; each project will require a task order from city staff, consistent with grant-funded projects.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Mentioned this in preparation for what is anticipated with the BIG project.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified that this and the General Plan Update are in preparation for the BIG project.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
14. APPROVAL OF SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY
OF BARSTOW AND BARSTOW HUMANE SOCIETY FOR ANIMAL SHELTERING AND ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES TO ADD AFTER HOURS CALL-OUT SERVICES.
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Second Amended and Restated Agreement with the Barstow Humane Society, which expands the City’s existing contract for animal sheltering and animal control services to include after-hours call-out animal control services; and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON & CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS - Presented the report filed with the City Clerk's office.
SPEAKERS
THERESA TANK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Requested clarification on page 159, section 10.3.3 regarding Licensing Fees and Other Fees.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed interest in getting non-profits involved with the animal shelter. - Voiced concerns regarding the Director of the Humane Society and the services provided to residents.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified that section 10.3.3 regarding Licensing Fees and Other Fees refers to the dog license fees that may be collected.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Inquired whether, if adopted, this information would be available on the City's website along with a contact number for after-hours inquiries.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Confirmed that this information will be available on the city's website and social media platforms.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked if there is an average number of after-hours calls. - Questioned whether Police Officers assigned to respond to these after-hours calls are paid from a specific budget allocated for animal control.
- Asked if the Police Department would still respond to incidents involving vicious dogs.
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Stated that there were approximately 22 after-hours calls in August. - Mentioned that responses to these calls fall under the officers' normal duties and are not funded by a specific budget.
- Clarified that calls involving vicious dogs would be answered by dispatch, and an officer would be assigned to assess the situation.
- Confirmed that all after-hours calls should go through the Police Department.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Requested clarification on the specific services the Humane Society provides for after-hours situations.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified that the city and police will post the telephone number for the Humane Society, along with their operating hours and relevant information about various scenarios.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Reiterated that this information would be accessible on the city's website, the police department's website, and the Humane Society's website.
PRESIDENT OF THE BARSTOW HUMANE SOCIETY CINDY FRANEY
- Provided the contact number: (442) 295-9002.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMEMRS
- Clarified that, according to the contract, the operating hours are 8:30 AM through 5:00 PM, seven days a week, and no holiday closures were listed on the contract.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
15. LOCAL MEASURE I TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX REVENUE BOND FINANCING Recommended Action:
Staff is seeking Council to provide direction on which financing option to pursue so that more information specific to that method can be brought back.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS & REPRESENTATIVE FROM UFI FINANCIAL
SOLUTIONS WING-SEE FOX
- Presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Inquiry about which projects were managed in Menifee using this program. - Request for the number of streets completed or the total miles improved. - Question about which surrounding cities have utilized this mechanism.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Reported that street improvements occurred when interest rates were high, allowing for refinancing, which was an effective method for improving streets in Menifee when the city could not afford it at that time. When interest rates dropped, the city refinanced, reducing the financial burden.
- Mentioned that the project was a significant bridge that was improved. - Listed the cities referenced in the presentation.
- Noted that refinancing could depend on how agreements are structured.
UFI FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS - WING-SEE FOX
- Stated that different scenarios can be drafted; typically, refinancing can occur after 10 years.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Expressed that, after attending the street committee meeting, she is not opposed to the financing, but her initial reaction is to avoid taxing her community. - Requested a clearer understanding of the city’s current position and the potential projects under consideration, including their projected costs.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
- Emphasized the need for more information before determining the best option for the city. - Raised concerns regarding the lack of pavement preservation funds and the decreasing gas tax revenues.
MAYOR SILVA
- Inquired about the revenues that would remain for maintenance after the estimated deed payment.
- Noted that the street committee collectively agreed that no one favored the taxing option.
UFI FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS - WING-SEE FOX
- Mentioned that the annual debt service would be approximately $1.3 million, leaving about $700,000 available for maintenance, with an estimated total revenue of $2,000,000.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Indicated that the current budget allocates $700,000 for pavement preservation to conduct slurry sealing throughout the city.
MAYOR SILVA
- Directed staff to bring back the case study financing for Measure I, which involves presenting actual numbers and how many projects can be completed with the $700,000. This motion was seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE and supported by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
UFI FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS - WING-SEE FOX
- Stated that the actual financial process could take up to four months, and various scenarios can be analyzed for the council’s review.
RESULT: COMPLETED
PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATES:
FIRE CHIEF CORY CISNEROS
- Issued a weather alert to the community and urged everyone to stay alert and safe. - Mentioned that the Fire Department attended the BBQ event at the Community College. - Noted that the two battalion chiefs assigned to Northern California are expected to return on September 17.
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Reminded the community that mini bikes are prohibited from being operated on public roads, sidewalks, trails, and paths unless they are equipped with the proper safety equipment, registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles, and the rider is wearing appropriate safety gear. - Clarified that mini bikes are legal to operate on private property, emphasizing that the police department’s priority is public safety.
- Encouraged the public to provide accurate information to police dispatchers, as the department responds to calls for service based on priority.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Reported that the Mojave Air Quality meeting was canceled for this month. - Attended the Southern California Association of Governments meeting and noted their focus on community strategies, as well as the energy and environmental committee outlook.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Attended the Military Affairs meeting and noted that the Veterans Day BBQ has been postponed until next year.
- The Military Mixer will be rescheduled from October to likely November. - Mentioned that on September 22nd, he will be attending the Victor Valley Transit Authority Meeting in Hesperia.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Nothing to report.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Referred to Mayor Silva for committee reports.
MAYOR SILVA
- Thanked Council Member Hernandez for covering the SBCTA meeting on the 3rd of September while he attended a groundbreaking at Fort Irwin.
- Attended the Street Committee meeting, where they discussed various issues related to revenue for future streets.
- Participated in the Military Affairs meeting as a non-committee member. - On September 11th, attended the SBCTA Metro Valley Study Session and noted that the Homeward Bound Committee Meeting was canceled.
- On September 19th, he will attend the SBCTA Mountain Desert Meeting. He noted that Rimrock Road will be item number 3 on the agenda, which addresses allocating an additional $2,915,274 in Measure I North Desert Major Local Highway Program (MLHP) funds to the City of Barstow for the Rimrock Road Rehabilitation Project.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Inquired about the activities of Golden State Water on Barstow Road. - Asked if there is a pending lawsuit against Golden State Water. - Thanked the Public Works Department for the road stripping. - Noted that one of the cable companies left its equipment at Lillian Park. - Discussed mini bike usage and requested that staff inform the public of designated riding areas. - Congratulated Barstow Community College on their foundation BBQ. - Mentioned that the Wellness Center at Barstow Community College was named after Dr. Ted Baca.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified that there is no pending lawsuit involving Golden State Water.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Attended the groundbreaking ceremony at Fort Irwin and discussed the projects underway. - Attended the 9/11 ceremony at the cemetery, noting it was a significant event. - Participated in the celebration of life for former Mayor Lawrence E. Dale.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Inquired if the air conditioning was malfunctioning in the sleeping areas at the Fire Department. - Asked if the City Attorney has been paid.
- Expressed support for the police department and their efforts. - Requested that the City Manager explain the process for selecting the Police Chief. - Emphasized the importance of addressing public inquiries. - Thanked former council member Steven Curran for his visit. - Requested that past council pictures be displayed on the wall, with support from MAYOR SILVA.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained that the city opened recruitment online for the Police Chief position, providing the job description and brochure.
- Noted staff and council interviewed all qualified applicants. - Mentioned a retired police chief from Escondido assisted with the panel, leading to an offer to the selected candidate, Chief Kirby.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Acknowledged attending former Mayor Dale's memorial and spoke about his legacy in the community, thanking him for his contributions.
- Attended Mr. Saenz's event and discussed the impactful influence of the council on the audience. - Inquired about recognizing the legacy of Mr. Charlie Kirk and whether the city would take action to honor his memory, a request seconded by MAYOR SILVA.
- Thanked Public Safety for ensuring the safety of all attendees at the city council meetings and requested the council conduct a mock trial to prepare for emergencies.
MAYOR SILVA
- Addressed with a statement made regarding employee paycheck freezes, clarifying that this was negotiated during COVID-19 when two of the city's three major funds were at risk of falling below 50% of revenues. He noted that employees were eventually reimbursed, allowing all employees to keep their jobs.
- Attended the 9/11 ceremony on September 6, where he was invited as a guest speaker by the US Veterans Support Group.
- Participated in the Tim Heiden Foundation fundraiser dinner, which collaborates with PAL to provide toys to children on Christmas Eve.
- Attended a Coffee and Conversation event organized by Supervisor Rowe, where Police, Fire, and County Representatives, alongside the School District, discussed community issues. - Attended services for former Mayor Lawrence E. Dale.
- Attended the dedication of the Wellness Center at Barstow Community College in honor of Dr. Ted Baca.
- Took part in the Barstow Community College Foundation's annual fundraiser CITY MANAGER UPDATE:
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that the Humane Society agreement specifies the operating hours in the contract as Monday through Saturday, but not on Sundays, and there are holiday closures. - Stated that this information will be clarified on the city website, including details about after-hours services, and contact numbers.
- Mentioned that she will provide an update on the cemetery analysis. - Noted that she met with LAFCO CEO Samuel Martinez to discuss the analysis conducted by LAFCO regarding the Barstow Cemetery.
- Informed that staff will return by the end of the calendar year with options for the council to consider moving forward.
- Mentioned that the council received an email regarding a potential $80,000 grant that requires a matching commitment from the city.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified that holiday hours apply to sheltering services, and that animal services operate seven days a week.
Minutes-September 16, 2025
ADJOURNMENT:
By the consensus of the City Council and without objection the Joint Special Meeting was adjourned at 9:58 P.M. Council continued with Close Session and reconvened at 10:00 P.M. and adjourned at 11:33 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office