BARSTOW CITY COUNCIL /
BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
OCTOBER 21, 2025
6:00 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
JOINT SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes-October 21, 2025
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the closed session meeting to order at 6:00 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.SPEAKERS:
SPEAKERS:
No speakers present
Minutes-October 21, 2025
MOTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Williams, Rose, Silva, Hernandez
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:
Public Employee Evaluation (Gov. Code § 54957)
Title: City Manager
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR (GOV. CODE § 54956.8) Recommended Action:
Conference with Real Property Negotiator (Gov. Code § 54956.8) Properties: 681 N. 1st Ave, Barstow, CA 92311
Agency Negotiators: Rochelle Clayton, City Manager
Negotiating Party: Peraton/NASA
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Agreement
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS reported the following:
- The council met in closed session to discuss three items. - Item 1: A conference with labor negotiators (all units). Direction was provided to staff, counsel, and labor negotiators; and no reportable action was taken. It was noted that the open session includes the approval of the new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for units 1 and 2 for Teamsters Local 1932.
- Item 3: A conference with real property negotiators regarding the Harvey House. Direction was provided to staff and counsel, but no reportable action was taken.
Close session was adjourned and will be continued at the end of tonight’s Joint Special Meeting.
Close session convened at 9:00 P.M.
- Item 2: City Manager’s Performance Evaluation. Provided direction to staff and council, and took no reportable action.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
INVOCATION:
CHAPLAIN BOBBY B. BRATTON from GIDEON'S gave the invocation.
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
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
CHAPLAIN BOBBY B. BRATTON 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.
Motion by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, to approve agenda tabling item number 4.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
Minutes-October 21, 2025
PRESENTATIONS:
4. HOMELESS OUTREACH FROM STAFF
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
RESULT: TABLED Next: 11/4/2025 6:00 PM
5. THE CITY MANAGER AND CITY COUNCIL ATTENDED THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL CONFERENCE HELD OCTOBER 8–10 IN LONG BEACH AND WILL PROVIDE A SUMMARY AND DISCUSSION OF THE SESSIONS THEY PARTICIPATED IN.
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified that Council Member Williams, Mayor Pro Tem Rose, and he coordinated their sessions at the conference to ensure they did not attend the same sessions, allowing them to gain more value from the experience.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Shared ideas she gathered from the conference regarding homelessness. - Mentioned that City Attorney Matthew Summers was a presenter at the conference focusing on affordable housing.
- Requested that he discuss some of the information he presented.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Noted that he spoke alongside colleagues from other firms about affordable housing. - Emphasized how to achieve successful, affordable housing projects by using case studies, focusing on building community support, and closely collaborating with affordable housing developers to ensure support and financing are in place. He highlighted the importance of a smooth process at the city planning level to facilitate project completion without requiring subsidies from the city.
- Expressed enthusiasm for bringing these opportunities to Barstow.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Announced that graduation certificates were being awarded to council members who participated in the Torch Leadership Program and expressed a desire to share this information with other interested council members.
- Mentioned that there are still funds available from the Homekey Grant and wished to share this information with local organizations.
- Motioned, seconded by MAYOR SILVA to add "In God We Trust" logo back into the council chambers.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Requested that the costs of the conference be shared with the public. - Discussed information learned at the emergency plan training and expressed a desire to implement it in the city.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Sought clarification on the food and mileage travel policy.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified that meal and mileage reimbursements are set by the state and are standardized across the board.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Requested that staff present the total cost of the conference to the public.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Inquired whether there was any presentation on the cannabis industry and how to manage odor control.
- Asked if the city manager attended a conference on engaging with the general public.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified that he did not attend any conference sessions related to cannabis.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Stated that they did not present any conference sessions regarding cannabis, noting this will be a great topic to be considered for future League of Cities events.
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
THERESA TANK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Requested information regarding the $55,000 check to Burrtec and is still awaiting that information. - Inquired about why the city continues to pay for utilities related to the old Burrtec building.
EUGENE BUTTICCI, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Reminded everyone about the job fair and resource event on October 23rd at the Harvey House. - Mentioned that the recorder's office will be present to assist with replacing birth certificates. - Invited all to attend the Barstow Community Coalition's fentanyl symposium at New Life Fellowship on October 23rd from 5-8 PM.
- Noted there would be a demonstration on how to properly use Narcan. - Shared that last Saturday, a Taiwanese media group visited Barstow to explore local landmarks.
ANNA FUZIE, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Invited everyone to attend the annual craft fair on Saturday, October 25th. - Mentioned that they are looking for volunteers and donations for Holiday Meals. - Invited all to celebrate their 49th Anniversary at the Senior Center on November 13th, starting at 5 PM. The event will be Disco Night, serving as a fundraiser with a $10 entry fee.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns about the cannabis odor on Lenwood Road and would like to see action taken. - Inquired about the status of the lease agreement for the Barstow Senior Center. - Mentioned that the city manager's expenses for the department have doubled, and hopes that productivity has also increased.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Concerns regarding an incident where private property information was shared, raising issues of invasion of privacy and potential defamation.
- Stated that everyone, including city officials, must adhere to the law.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Discussed an incident involving city officials, where they recorded a red-tagged property and posted it on Facebook.
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:
6. MINUTES OF THE JOINT SPECIAL MEETING / CLOSED SESSION - AUGUST 4, 2025 AT 5:30 P.M.
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
7. MINUTES OF THE JOINT SPECIAL MEETING - SEPTEMBER 16, 2025 AT 5:15 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
8. MINUTES OF THE JOINT SPECIAL MEETING / CLOSED SESSION - SEPTEMBER 24, 2025 AT 5:30 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
Minutes-October 21, 2025
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
9. RATIFICATION OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE EXPENDITURES FOR SEPTEMBER Recommended Action:
Approve and ratify expenses, as audited, checks #100752-101033 totaling $4,008,236.50 and wires #1191-1196 & 1199-1206 totaling $572,710.94, per the Agency breakdown below:
City: $4,382,942.34
Fire: $198,005.10
Successor Agency: $0.00
Grand Total: $4,580,947.44
QUESTIONS
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Requested clarification on check #100842 "Tire Repair" asked if vehicles are being checked before leaving the facilities.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained staff is looking to inspection policies as using vehicles, and an inspection check list.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarify staff does check their vehicles before leaving the facilities. - Mentioned that if there is a flat tire that occurs during normal operating hours they would come and assist in changing the tires.
- Mentioned that if it happens after hours then a tow company would come to change the tires.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested staff answer Mrs. Tanks questions on why the city is still paying the utilities for the old Burrtec Building and how much longer the city is required to pay for it.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Mentioned that after speaking with Burrtec in late September utilities were disconnected, and utilities were set back into their name and no more bills will be received by the city. - Noted there was some crossover because the city was in the middle of finalizing the contract arraignments to do the repairs to the facility but the city is no longer custodian of the utilities for that facility.
- Mentioned Mrs. Tank had submitted a Request for Information via email to obtain some information regarding expenditures for the Burrtec facilities and this information was provided to her.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CITY COUNCIL:
10. ACCEPTANCE OF THE FY 2023 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANT
GRANT (JAG) AWARD AS A SUB-RECIPIENT THROUGH THE SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT, OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES.
Recommended Action:
Authorize staff to accept the sub-recipient award of the FY2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant (JAG) in the amount of $21,813 and to appropriate funds in the amount of $21,813 to account numbers as follows:
1. 2023 JAG
Minutes-October 21, 2025
a. Revenue - 218.615.116.639,
b. Expenditure - 218.218.218.07.727
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
11. FINAL ACCEPTANCE FOR WWTP POND 1 & 2 PUMPING SYSTEM Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Approve the Final Acceptance of Project WWTP-25-001, WWTP Pond 1 & 2 pumping system;
2. Authorize staff to file the attached Notice of Completion.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed satisfaction that the project was completed under budget and requested an update on future projects for the sewer plant.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified that the city is currently evaluating this as part of preparing the sewer master plan, which will be in conjunction with the general plan update scheduled for early next year.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
12. AWARD OF COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS - FEE WAIVER FOR USE OF THE HARVEY HOUSE BY MOJAVE VALLEY UNITED WAY FOR THE ANNUAL “BOOTS & BLING” EVENT ON NOVEMBER 8, 2025
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the Council approve in-kind donations in the form of fee waivers totaling $2,801.54 for the use of the Harvey House during the Boots & Bling Event, scheduled for November 8, 2025.
SPEAKERS
DAN VIROG, BOARD OF DIRECTOR PRESIDENT FOR THE MOJAVE VALLEY UNITED WAY - Expressed gratitude to the staff for recommending the approval of in-kind donations for the Boots & Bling event.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke in support of the Mojave Valley United Way receiving assistance to hold the event. - Requested that more events be approved under this funding.
MAYOR SILVA
- Noted that these events will be added to the policy under agenda item 16.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Thanked the Mojave Valley United Way for their contributions to the community.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
13. APPROVAL OF UPDATED MEMORANDUMS OF UNDERSTANDING WITH UNITS 1 AND 2 Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following action:
1. Approve the MOU with Unit 1 and authorize the City Manager to sign the agreement on the City’s behalf. (Attachment B)
2. Approve the MOU with Unit 2 and authorize the City Manager to sign the agreement on the City’s behalf. (Attachment D)
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: (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:
14. PLANNING COMMISSION – NOTICE OF UPCOMING VACANCY (ONE SEAT, DECEMBER 31, 2025)
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Direct the City Clerk to publicly announce the opening on the Planning Commission and to approve the application submission timelines specified in the Staff Report;
2. And designate two Council members to participate in an Ad HOC committee, which will have the specific and temporary duty of selecting commissioners to fill the one (1) vacant position.
3. The City Council may provide alternative direction as desired.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Presented the report that was filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested an updated list of the planning commissioners. - Inquired whether this position pertains to the original appointment that took place in 2013.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Confirmed this is correct and stated that this position is Commissioner Andrew Ziemer. - Clarified that the previous policy allowed a commissioner who wished to continue in their seat to have their recommendation come to the council for a vote. - Noted that the process has now changed; if someone wants to continue serving on the planning commission, they must reapply and undergo the interview process just like any other candidate.
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed a desire to reinstate alternates as in the past, which made it easier to fill vacancies. - Mentioned that having alternates fill in for commissioners who could not attend meetings was Minutes-October 21, 2025
also cost-effective.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Asked for clarification on how having alternates would function.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained that the most common approach is for the alternate to attend every meeting but only vote if the main commissioner is absent.
- Noted that the council will authorize a stipend for the alternate, similar to that of the commissioners, although it is not mandatory.
- Mentioned that some places utilize one or two alternates for every five commissioners.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Inquired whether Mr. Ziemer had completed his four-year term.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Confirmed that this is correct.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Mentioned that she served as an alternate on the Planning Commission without receiving payment.
- Asked if there had been any issues with the Planning Commission not always having a quorum, leading to canceled meetings.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Clarified that the council can establish a system for alternates to receive payment, but noted that, in the past, alternates have not been compensated. - Explained that an amendment to the ordinance would be necessary for alternates to receive payment.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Noted that several Planning Commission meetings had been canceled due to a lack of quorum.
Motion by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, to advertise to fill the opening on the Planning Commission and to approve the application submission timelines specified in the Staff Report.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: Barbara Mae Rose, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
Motion by MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE, to enter discussions regarding the appointment of the committee.
DISCUSSION:
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Suggested that because both he and Council Member Hernandez were part of the last committee that the other two council members should be appointed to take part in this selection.
A motion was made by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, and seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE, to appoint Mayor Pro Tem Rose and Council Member Williams to the Minutes-October 21, 2025
committee.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
15. ADOPT REVISED CITY COUNCIL POLICY MEMORANDUM #2025-20, CANNABIS
COMMUNITY BENEFIT PROGRAM POLICY TO REMOVE COMMUNITY BENEFIT
COMMITTEE
Recommended Action:
Consider removal of the Community Benefits Committee from Policy Memorandum #2025- 20, Cannabis Community Benefit Program Policy, as requested by the Council.
Attachment 1 - Redline of Policy Memorandum #2025-20, Cannabis Community Benefit Program Policy.
Attachment 2 - Clean Draft Policy Memorandum #2025-20, Cannabis Community Benefit Program Policy.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON & CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS - Presented the report that was filed with the City Clerk's office.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Requested clarification on the definition of "designee."
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Explained that once the terms are defined, specifically referring to the city manager or their designee any subsequent references would pertain to that designee component.
RESULT: APPROVED [4 TO 1]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Council Member
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
NAYS: Rose
16. ADOPT RESOLUTION ADOPTING COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND POLICY THAT
CONSOLIDATES AND SUPERSEDES THE EXISTING COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND POLICY (POLICY NO. 50-01) AND YOUTH COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND POLICY (REV. 05/28/2024)
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends adopting the proposed resolution no. 5247-2025 to adopt the proposed policy to consolidate the City’s two existing community promotional fund policies and to provide clear, consistent guidelines for Community Promotional Fund administration while ensuring accountability, transparency, and maximum community benefit from Measure Q revenues allocated to the Community Promotional Fund.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON & CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS - Presented the report filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Requested clarification on the event list.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
SPEAKERS
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked for details regarding the account balance and inquired about how much would be allocated for youth programs and how much for Senior’s programs. He also asked whether these funds are from cannabis revenue, Measure Q, or both.
- Questioned how the funds would be allocated each year.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Clarified that the Measure Q 25/26 fiscal year budget is $403,000 which are designated every year.
CITY ATTORNEY MATTHEW SUMMERS
- Confirmed that these funds are solely Measure Q and are not combined with cannabis funds. - Noted that cannabis funds amount of approximately $830,000, which are designated for a onetime purchase per the policy approved in the previous item. - Mentioned that while the newly amended policy addresses one-time purchases, the council can legally spend the funds on ongoing purchases if desired, but the reason for the one-time purchase policy is due to the uncertainty of these funds each year. - Clarified that Measure Q funds are allocated annually, with amounts designated for youth programs and another portion for seniors, as approved each year by the council based on policy and staff recommendations.
Motioned by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS, to approve community promotional pre-approved events as follows:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: John Williams, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
17. EXTENSION OF PARK MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT WITH BARSTOW HEIGHTS COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT FOR 90 DAYS
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve a 90-day extension of the current Park Maintenance Agreement with the Barstow Heights Community Services District to allow staff time to complete the property tax analysis and return with a proposed revised agreement.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented the report filed with the City Clerk's office.
Pre-Approved Annual Community Events
Light up the Night Boots & Bling
Main Street USA Festival and Car Show Gem & Mineral Show Mardi Gras Parade Kiwanis Crossroads Annual Wine Auction Juneteenth Celebration Hi Desert Shooters – Sport Shooting Banquet New Mexico Chili Cook-Off and Belen Fiesta
Minutes-October 21, 2025
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATES:
FIRE CHIEF CORY CISNEROS
- Provided an update during the safety stand-down.
- Noted the commemoration of the one-year anniversary of the passing of Fire Captain Garret Miller.
He also acknowledged Fire Engineer David Spink and Fire Captain John McNelis, who dedicated their lives to the community and died in duty-related incidents within the last five years.
CAPTAIN DANIEL ARTHUR
- Mentioned the quarterly "Coffee with a Cop" event at Starbucks, and thanked all who participated. - Shared that the same day several Command Staff attended the annual Blue Ribbon Breakfast in Ontario, where Barstow Police Officer Jason Rodriguez was recognized as Officer of the Year. - Noted that on October 17, the Barstow Police Department, along with other local law enforcement agencies, participated in Operation Consequences. This initiative targeted crime in the High Desert and resulted in 81 arrests, 9 seized guns, 25 grams of drugs, and a significant amount of money.
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Noted that she will be attending the Mojave Air Quality District Meeting on October 27, which will be the last meeting of the year. They will be discussing the cannabis odor issue on Lenwood Road.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Military Affairs Meeting scheduled for October 14 was canceled due to the furlough. - VVTA meeting was canceled on October 20 due to no items to discuss, and staff was in training. - Next Military Affairs Meeting is scheduled for November 11, but it might be rescheduled. - Next VVTA meeting will be held at the Barstow City Council Chamber on November 17 at 9:30 AM.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Nothing to report.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Deferred to Mayor Silva.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended League of Cities from October 8-10 and reminded everyone that his notes are available for public review in the lobby.
- Attended SBCTA Metro Valley Meeting on October 16, where there were no items related to Barstow.
- Attended the Barstow Chamber of Commerce meeting on October 21, where cannabis was discussed, and some local business owners were present. - Requested staff to check on the upcoming SBCTA Directors' meeting.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Thanked the Knights of Columbus for their generous donation to the Kiwanis Club and for all their contributions to the community.
- Expressed gratitude to local educators and veterans for their service to the community.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
- Noted that the council is actively addressing the cannabis odor issue in the city.
COUNCIL MEMBER NOBLE
- Attended the "Cigars Under the Stars" event at the Harvey House on October 10, which raised funds for college scholarships, and had a fantastic time. - Participated in the Main Street USA Festival, which was a great event. - Attended the Mardi Gras Parade.
- Mentioned he was unable to attend the League of Cities event due to the furlough occurring at Fort Irwin, which affected his availability.
- Thanked the Police and Fire Departments for their daily contributions to the community. - Proposed to adjourn the meeting in honor of the fallen firefighters. - Expressed gratitude to the staff for all their hard work.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Expressed sympathy for those affected by the furlough. - Showed support for the Fire Chief Cisneros, Police Chief Kirby and Captain Arthur. - Emphasized the importance of considering the residents of Barstow when making any decisions. - Thanked the staff for all their efforts.
MAYOR PRO TEM ROSE
- Nothing.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended the Barstow Community College fundraiser, "Cigars Under the Stars." - Attended a Pancake Breakfast on October 11 at New Life Fellowship. - Attended the Main Street USA Car Show on October 11 and presented a Bronco Award. - Attended the Kids So Special event at the Sports Park on October 11. - Attended the after-party for the Main Street USA Car Show and spoke with the MC, who promotes Barstow on her social media.
- Attended the Barstow Pastoral meeting on October 14.
- Attended the one-year ribbon-cutting anniversary for Crave Kaffee Haus on October 15. - Participated in the Together We Can committee, where various nonprofit organizations come together to share information about community needs.
- On October 17, attended the Desert Sanctuary Open House and the Trunk-or-Treat event, which was an American Cruisers event.
- Attended the Mardi Gras Parade on October 18.
- Shared insights from the League of Cities event titled "Are Council Meetings Getting Harder? How to Make Them Smoother".
CITY MANAGER REPORT:
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Responded to a public comment where they asked if there was a section dedicated to cannabis items at the League of Cities event, noting that there were no events related to cannabis. - Mentioned that there was a presentation on this subject at the Chamber of Commerce breakfast; however, staff plans to provide additional information to the public at the beginning of next year. - Echoed Council Member Hernandez's comments regarding the cannabis odor, stating that it has been identified and that staff, along with the AQMD, is seeking solutions. - Shared that she lost her sense of smell due to COVID-19 and does not notice the cannabis smell when passing by.
- Mentioned the street financing option was scheduled to be presented during this meeting but indicated that it will instead be presented at the next meeting alongside other budget presentations.
Minutes-October 21, 2025
ADJOURNMENT:
-By consensus of the City Council and without objection, the Joint Special Meeting was adjourned in memory of our fallen heroes: Barstow Fire Captain Garret Miller, Barstow Fire Engineer David Spink, and Barstow Fire Captain John McNelis at 8:56 P.M.
Council continued with close session and convened immediately after the end of the Joint Special Meeting and adjourned at 9:52 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office