BARSTOW CITY COUNCIL /
BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
MAY 19, 2026
5:30 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
JOINT SPECIAL MEETING
Minutes-May 19, 2026
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the closed session meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS Led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
James M. Noble Mayor Pro Tem Present
Barbara Mae Rose Council Member 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 BEING 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-May 19, 2026
SPEAKERS
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about item number 4, the contract for CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON, expressing concerns regarding her performance.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Shared his concerns about the contract for CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON.
Point of order was made by COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE to allow Mr. Snell to continue his comments; however, there was no second.
MOTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: John Williams, 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 Section 54956.9(d)(1))
Case Name: Chavez v. City of Barstow, Claim No. 25-004706
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL; EXISTING LITIGATION (GOV. CODE § 54956.9(D)(1))
Recommended Action:
The City Council finds, based on advice from legal counsel, that discussion in open session will prejudice the position of the City in regard to a claim for damages filed against the City.
Name of Claimant: Unspecified, disclosure would jeopardize settlement negotiations
3. 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
4. CITY MANAGER CONTRACT NEGOTIATION
Recommended Action:
Conference with Labor Negotiator (Gov. Code Section 54957.6) City & District Negotiators: Mayor Timothy Silva and City Council Unrepresented Employee: City Manager
Minutes-May 19, 2026
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW L. JARED reported the following.
The council convened in a closed session to discuss four items. All items were discussed, but there was no reportable action. The council recessed from closed session at 6:55 PM.
INVOCATION:
PASTOR JAMES MILA from CROSSROADS ASSEMBLY 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 joint special meeting to order at 7:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS led in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Attendee Name Title Status Arrived
James M. Noble Mayor Pro Tem Present
Barbara Mae Rose Council Member Present
John Williams Council Member Present
Carmen Hernandez Council Member Present
Timothy Silva Mayor Present
PARTICIPATION IS INVITED: IF YOU WISH TO BE HEARD ON ANY ITEM ON THE AGENDA INCLUDING
ANY ITEM ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR, PLEASE SO INDICATE BY FILLING OUT A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD AND HANDING IT TO THE CITY CLERK. IF SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUIRED, 48 HOURS NOTICE MUST BE GIVEN TO THE CITY CLERK.
CODE OF ETHICS: AS YOUR ELECTED GOVERNING BOARD WE WILL REMEMBER THE "CODE OF ETHICS" THAT WE VOLUNTARILY AND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED. DURING THIS MEETING WE WILL TREAT EACH OTHER AND THE PUBLIC WITH PATIENCE, CIVILITY, AND COURTESY. THE DECISIONS
MADE TONIGHT WILL BE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE BARSTOW COMMUNITY AND NOT FOR PERSONAL GAIN.
REVIEW AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA: THIS IS THE TIME FOR MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING BOARD TO CALL FOR REARRANGING THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA; ADDING ITEMS TO OR REMOVING ITEMS FROM THE AGENDA; OR REMOVING ITEMS FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION AND/OR SEPARATE ACTION. ITEMS MAY ONLY BE ADDED TO THE AGENDA AS ALLOWED BY STATE LAW, INCLUDING GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54954.2, SUBDIVISION (B),
ALLOWING EMERGENCY ITEMS TO BE ADDED BY MAJORITY VOTE AND ALLOWING ITEMS THAT AROSE TO THE CITY’S ATTENTION AFTER THE AGENDA POSTING DEADLINE, BUT WHICH REQUIRE
IMMEDIATE ACTION, TO BE ADDED BY A TWO-THIRDS VOTE OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT
AT THE MEETING, OR, IF LESS THAN TWO-THIRDS OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS ARE PRESENT, A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THOSE MEMBERS PRESENT.
Motioned by COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE to approve pulling items 6, 7, and 11, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
RESULT: APPROVED [4 TO 1]
MOVER: Barbara Mae Rose, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Hernandez, Silva
NAYS: Williams
PRESENTATIONS:
5. PRESENTATION OF A DONATION CHECK FROM BURRTEC WASTE INDUSTRIES TO MOUNTAIN VIEW MEMORIAL PARK.
Recommended Action:
Receive and file the presentation.
MIKE ARREGUIN, VICE PRESIDENT OF BURRTEC WASTE INDUSTRIES - Presented a donation check for $10,000 from Burrtec Waste Industries to Mountain View Memorial Park.
SPEAKERS
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed his pleasure at the $10,000 donation and voiced concerns regarding the length of the last contract the city provided to Burrtec.
MAYOR SILVA
- Thanked Burrtec for their support of the cemetery.
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
GILBERT ASA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed that he has been having issues with the city and the Police Department since 2019. He mentioned that he got upset last week and said something he shouldn't have. - Mentioned he feels harassed by the Police Department.
Point of order was made by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS, requesting Mr. Asa to address the council and not the public.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Voiced concerns about COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS' performance, accusing him of harassment and discrimination, and requested that the council investigate his actions.
VANESSA PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Representing the Barstow Action Committee, she noted that her committee submitted 63 reported items through the Barstow Connect App in the last two years; of those, 34 have been completed, and staff is currently working on the others.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
- Mentioned that over 24 tons of trash have been cleared from the community. - Thanked the Public Works Team for their efforts.
- Recognized Larry Parks, president of the Killing the Game High Desert Car Club, who helped clean up the restroom and park at Dana Park.
- Announced the launch of the "Dare to Care" program sponsored by the Barstow Action Committee, inviting local organizations to adopt a park or street to help keep Barstow clean, safe, and thriving. - Thanked COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS for his support.
PERRY PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asserted that everyone has the right to speak at the Dias. - Mentioned that over one million dollars is allocated for Route 66 and asked what the city plans to do for the community with that funding.
- Noted the creation of the Route 66 Action Committee and expressed a desire to collaborate with the city and all stakeholders to ensure Route 66 shines brightly in Barstow. - Stated that community members are stepping up to care for the city and encourage local businesses to get involved for the betterment of both the city and Route 66 corridor.
DENA MARTEL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Discussed the BIG Project, the Environmental Impact Report, and its effects on the community and residents.
PAULA PETERSON, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about the enforcement of Barstow's fireworks code, highlighting that there have been repeat offenders in her neighborhood from graduation to the Fourth of July. She expressed concerns about how this is affecting her community off Rimrock Road in the Silverado area and requested that the police department enforce these rules and regulations.
JOHN HARRIS JR., BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Voiced his disapproval of how the council, city, and Country have handled the homeless issues in the community and called for programs that help homeless individuals become contributing members of society.
SHERRY BAILEY, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke against the BIG Project, voicing concerns about how it will affect community members, especially those living closer to the project.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Responded to Mr. Asa's comments, stating that he disagrees with Mr. Asa's views.
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.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
6. RATIFICATION OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE EXPENDITURES FOR MARCH 2026 Recommended Action:
Approve and ratify expenses, as audited checks #102793-103206 totaling $5,457,440.37 and wires #1305-1313 totaling $212,918.99, per the Agency breakdown below:
City: $5,401,613.35
Fire: $268,746.01
Successor Agency: $0.00
Grand Total: $5,670,359.36
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Requested clarification on check number 1306, specifically asking how many flash drives were purchased for the Police Department for the total amount of $69.21. - Would like to know the total amount spent on the Cinco de Mayo event. - Inquired about check number 103070 issued to Litwell Signs for $4,982.56, which was for vinyl for the City Manager's Office.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified that staff has a breakdown of the total costs for the Cinco de Mayo event; however, invoices have only just started to arrive.
- Noted that the budget limit for the event was set at $20,000.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained that the vinyl covering for the management offices' windows is intended to protect sensitive information.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CITY COUNCIL:
7. APPROVAL OF JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Recommended Action:
Approve the final job descriptions for classifications within Teamsters (Units 1 & 2), BPOA (Unit 3), BPFA (Unit 5), Barstow Management Employees Association (Unit 6), Barstow Police Department Management Association (Unit 8), Executive Management (Unrepresented), and Part-Time Employees.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Inquired whether the job descriptions are brand new or if there are any existing red lines. - Asked for the anticipated date for implementation in NeoGov. - Requested information about when the fiscal impact will be visible if this is approved tonight. - Questioned whether any of the positions may have a higher starting pay. - Requested to see track changes in future documents.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Confirmed that the MGT classification and compensation study included recommendations for changes to some job descriptions. These changes were shared with the respective unions for input and agreement, as well as to standardize the formatting for the NeoGov system to broaden the recruitment outreach.
- Clarified that there is no increase in workload within the individual job descriptions.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR KIMBERLIE TURNER
- Mentioned that some track changes were made, but job descriptions have been completed and reformatted into a new layout.
- Stated that staff has uploaded all the new job descriptions in anticipation of approval. If any descriptions are not satisfactory, they can be edited, and staff hopes to activate NeoGov this week.
- Acknowledged that negotiations are currently ongoing but emphasized that there is no significant fiscal impact at this time.
- Clarified that the focus is on accuracy in the job descriptions. - Noted that none of the positions will have a fiscal impact at this time.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
8. REVIEW THE CITY’S MILITARY EQUIPMENT ANNUAL REPORT AND ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 5288-2026 TO RENEW ORDINANCE NO. 989-2022, APPROVING THE CITY’S MILITARY
EQUIPMENT POLICY, AS REQUIRED BY CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 7070 - 7075.
Recommended Action:
The Barstow Police Department is committed to transparency, public trust, community partnerships, and compliance with legal requirements.
Staff recommends City Council approved the 2025 Military Equipment Annual Report and adopt Resolution No. 5288-2026, renewing Ordinance No. 989-2022, which approved the Department’s military equipment funding, acquisition, and use policy pursuant to Assembly Bill 481.
The renewal of the proposed ordinance is exempt from review under California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), per CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b)(2,5).
SPEAKERS
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Discussed the importance of honoring the military.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
9. REQUEST FOR PUBLIC HEARING - DELINQUENT TRASH AND SEWER ACCOUNTS Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council:
Set the public hearing for delinquent sewer and trash (utility) accounts for Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Barstow Council Chambers located at 220 E. Mountain View St., Barstow, CA 92311.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
10. MEASURE Q COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND REQUEST – ROUTE 66 - MAIN STREET OF AMERICA CARAVAN EVENT JUNE 7, 2026.
Recommended Action:
The City Council approves the use of Measure Q Community Promotional Funds in the form of a facility use fee waiver of $1,154.82 for use of the Harvey House for the Main Street of America Caravan Event.
SPEAKERS
PERRY PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed his support for this agenda item and requested to review the event program.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
11. MEASURE Q COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND REQUEST – FARMER'S MARKET Recommended Action:
The City Council approve the use of Measure Q Community Promotional Funds in the form of a facility use fee waiver for $15,469.90 for use of Dana Park for the weekly Farmer's Market.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Inquired about the details of staff coordination.
- Asked about the cost associated with those staff members. - Noted that City Hall will be closed on December 20 and December 27 and requested clarification on how staff will be compensated during that period. - Expressed happiness that the event is back but emphasized the importance of including staff costs in the fiscal impact.
CITY CLERK SERVICES MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ
- Clarified that the purpose is to provide facility support at Dana Park. Staff is typically available to check restrooms and assist with any needs that arise; usually, two staff members are on hand for support.
- Noted that this involves part-time staff working at regular rates. - Mentioned that usually staff are available to open Dana Park facilities for event attendees and then return to their normal duties.
- Added that often, staff at Cora Harper will come to Dana Park on their regular workdays just to open the facilities before going back to their normal responsibilities. They maintain communication with event organizers to address any specific needs.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that part-time staff is scheduled for weekend events, and typically there are events every weekend, with staff available to open and close the facilities and assist with any needs that arise.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, 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:
12. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT FOR CODE ENFORCEMENT AND CITY PROSECUTOR SERVICES BETWEEN
CITY OF BARSTOW AND DAPEER, ROSENBLIT, & LITVAK, LLP
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Dapeer, Rosenblit & Litvak, LLP for Code Enforcement and City Prosecutor services, and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW L. JARED
- Presented a report to the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Inquired whether the City Attorney can vouch for the firm.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Requested clarification on the Special Services portion. She noted that, notwithstanding subsection (a), special services refer to the firm with the approval of the City Attorney or City Manager, as she hopes that legal advice will be provided. - Mentioned that they are doubling their fee and asked if these fees would be effective immediately and if there would be a sunset clause.
MAYOR SILVA
- Highlighted that in the previous contract under Special Services 1.3, workshops were provided for the city council, commissions, and staff.
- Expressed a desire to see reports on what the firm is accomplishing for the city.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Asked why it took so long to come before council.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW L. JARED
- Stated that as a lawyer, he can vouch for the firm since he has worked with them for other cities; they are long-time city prosecutors and are well-known throughout the city attorney and city prosecutor field, representing a large number of cities within the state. - Noted that the "and/or" portion will be amended so that both can approve, recommending either one or the other. This is due to the potential need for legal counsel to step in when representing the city in a public hearing.
- Mentioned that there could be situations where conflict may arise. - Explained that special services are those needs that arise outside of regular services. - Clarified that the legal services agreement has no fixed term and continues until formally terminated, stating that the fees would become effective after approval. - Stated this is not the only city to allow their contract to stay as is.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Noted that Mr. Dapeer works very well with staff and is highly knowledgeable in the field, as are the other attorneys in the firm.
- Mentioned that regular reports can be provided, and staff are working on delivering these reports to the council, which can certainly include updates from the firm.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
13. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION OF APPOINTMENT OF DAPEER, ROSENBLIT &
LITVAK, LLP AS CRIMINAL PROSECUTOR AND CODE ENFORCEMENT CIVIL COUNSEL
FOR THE BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the District Board formally appoint Dapeer, Rosenblit & Litvak, LLP as the District’s Criminal Prosecutor and Code Enforcement Civil Counsel by adopting BFPD Resolution 77-2026 and approving the attached Agreement.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW L. JARED
- Presented a report to the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked what types of situations this company would be utilized in.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Inquired whether the motion would include striking out the third paragraph. - Asked for clarification on who the General Manager is, as the resolution mentions actions under the general direction of the District’s General Manager.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW L. JARED
- Clarified that the company will act as the district prosecutor for matters that need to go to court for criminal or misdemeanor violations, as well as citations or administrative citations under the code.
- Added that the contract is not intended to create a new process; rather, it ensures that they can serve as a law firm and provide legal advice and representation in those legal matters. - Mentioned that the fire code is adopted locally and that there are local ordinances, one example being illegal fireworks, explaining how these will be prosecuted under the fire code. - Noted that the fire district's scope extends beyond city boundaries, which is one reason this is a separate item with its own resolution for clarity.
- Stated that the General Manager is the City Manager, but because it is a separate entity, the same individuals in the room may have different roles.
FIRE CHIEF CORY CISNEROS
- Added that those examples are straightforward, but there is an escalation process where the community can express its concerns. The Fire Department will take administrative action after such instances, and there may be other significant occurrences where they collaborate with law enforcement.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
14. ALLOCATION OF FUNDING FOR THE FY 25/26 STREET REHABILITATION PROJECT Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council appropriate $18,553,367 to the FY 25/26 Street Rehabilitation Project as shown below in the table below:
Funding Source Account Number Account
Description
Appropriatio
n
Street Financing 400.801.130.26.302 Base Bid $4,747,809 Street Financing 400.801.131.26.302 Alt. 1 - W. Sect. 7 (Phase 2)
$2,849,316
Street Financing 400.801.132.26.302 Alt. 2 - W. Sect. 7 (Phase 3)
$2,434,223
Street Financing 400.801.133.26.302 Alt. 3 - W. Sect. 7 (Phase 4)
$2,217,745
County of San
Bernardino
400.801.134.26.217 Rimrock Road
(County Side)
$1,500,000
Measure I MHLP
(Regional)
400.801.134.26.709 Rimrock Road $2,345,761
Measure I MHLP
(Regional)
400.801.135.26.709 Agarita Avenue $1,104,989
Measure I MHLP
(Regional)
400.801.136.26.709 Rimrock Road
(Bike Lane)
$863,524
Transportation Dev. Act
(TDA)
400.801.136.26.235 Rimrock Road
(Bike Lane)
$490,000
TOTAL APPROPRIATION FOR FY 25/26 STREET REHABILIATION
PROJECT
$18,553,367
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER HEIDY RILEY
- Presented a report to the City Clerk's office.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: John Williams, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
15. AUTHORIZE THE INCREASE TO THE CITY'S MASTER EQUITY LEASE AGREEMENT WITH ENTERPRISE FLEET MANAGEMENT, FOR THE 50 CURRENT LEASED VEHICLES AND ADDITIONAL 12 LEASE VEHICLES
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Authorize the City of Barstow to increase the leased vehicles under the City's Master Lease Agreement with Enterprise Fleet Management for the current 50 vehicles and replacement of 12 additional vehicles and authorize the City Manager to sign contracts.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
2. Authorize the increase of expenditures from the current budget to approximately $1M annually.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Presented a report to the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Inquired about the total number of police vehicles.
- Asked for the plan, given that there is currently no policy in place.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Asked when the policy and comprehensive replacement plan will be available. - Inquired about the cost of the software to track vehicle maintenance.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Noted that there are 26 police vehicles.
- Mentioned that she would like to return with a lease vehicle policy and a complete comprehensive replacement plan.
- Stated that the report should be ready by the middle of the next fiscal year. This timeline is necessary to evaluate the current process, consider long-term planning, and develop a comprehensive plan. However, this plan will only authorize what is currently in place; if the staff proposes any additional vehicles, they will need to come back to the council for approval, as she will not have the authority to authorize any extra vehicles. - Added that the city currently does not have the software to track how many hours are spent on the maintenance of the existing vehicle fleet. Typically, staff must track the annual maintenance hours for each vehicle.
- Mentioned that they had implemented a $10,000 annual software solution to enable tracking and provide comprehensive reports.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: John Williams, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATES:
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Provided an activity update for April, noting that the dispatcher center received a total of 5,759 calls from the public. Officers responded to 2,310 calls for service, during which they filed 367 police reports, submitted 129 cases to the District Attorney's Office, and issued 37 traffic citations. Overall, there were 148 arrests, including 60 felony arrests (57 involving adults and 3 involving juveniles) and 88 misdemeanor arrests (88 involving adults and 0 involving juveniles). - Informed that on April 24, OFFICER JUAN GONZALEZ graduated from the San Bernardino County SWAT Course.
- Mentioned that on May 14, the Barstow Police Department honored staff with employee recognition and BBQ awards.
- Noted that on May 15, the Barstow Police Department hosted a local law enforcement shooting competition; OFFICER AUSTIN JARAMILLO received the top shot award. - Invited the public to attend the Public Safety Fair event on May 30 from 10 AM to 2 PM in front of City Hall.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Commended and thanked the chief and the police department for all they do. Congratulated all who received an award, especially OFFICER AUSTIN JARAMILLO for receiving the Top Shot Award.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Nothing to report.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Attended the Military Affairs meeting on May 12.
- Announced that on Veterans Day, there will be a Veterans Day Birthday celebration at Cora Harper and invited everyone to attend.
- Noted that Fort Irwin will host its graduation on May 20, and Barstow Community College will have its graduations on May 27, with one at 10 AM and another at 3 PM. - Informed that the Resources Fair and Veterans Connections will be held at Cora Harper on June 25. - Mentioned that the Veterans Support Group will be hosting a High School High Achievement award ceremony at Los Domingos on Saturday at 11 AM.
- Attended the VVTA meeting on May 18 at Barstow City Council Chambers, where staff presented proposals for subsidizing bus transit to and from Fort Irwin; retirees will receive a half-price discount for bus rides.
- Noted that they are updating their marketing campaign to ensure widespread awareness of veteran activities. Moreover, veterans will be allowed to ride the bus for free on Veterans Day and Memorial Day.
- Announced a service change for Route 27, which will now service the church on Barstow Road. - Recognized Nicholas Zarate as the Employee of the Month for his outstanding service, reliability, and compassion toward passengers.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Nothing to report.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Nothing to report.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended the SBCTA meeting on May 6; nothing related to Barstow was discussed. - Attended the Street Committee meeting on May 6, where they received an update on the street projects.
- Attended the SCAGG annual conference on May 7-8; a report will be presented at the second meeting in June.
- Attended the City-County Annual Conference at Lake Arrowhead on May 14; details will be posted in the lobby for public access.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Requested staff and council to look into fireworks issues and expressed her desire for drones for this year’s celebrations, as they are safer.
- Mentioned her satisfaction with the agreement of a legal team for the fire department; emphasized that no fireworks are allowed in Barstow.
- Expressed disappointment over the lack of attendance at the cemetery for Veterans and Memorial Day celebrations.
- Congratulated the graduates of Barstow Community College.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Addressed Mrs. Peterson's concerns regarding illegal fireworks in her neighborhood and requested the police chief to increase patrols in that area.
- Attended the Veterans Day anniversary, calling it a great event and thanked everyone who participated.
- Attended the National Day of Prayer and encouraged all local pastors to be present at the event Minutes-May 19, 2026
next year.
- Also attended the Military Appreciation Celebration at the senior center, which he described as a great event.
- Participated in the workshop special meeting on May 13 and the annual award ceremony hosted by the police department.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Congratulated all graduates and their families within the community and commended all military members and their families for their service.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- No comments.
MAYOR SILVA
- Announced that there will be a Memorial Day celebration on Monday, May 25, at the cemetery at 11 AM. He noted that although the city council usually attends this event every year, participation from the public has declined, and he encouraged residents of Barstow to attend. - Mentioned that a committee has been formed for Route 66. - Stated that on May 11, the Mayor of Adelanto called for a special meeting regarding energy issues in the High Desert, where developments are experiencing delays in getting power turned on. He emphasized that all cities in the High Desert will collaborate to address this problem. - Attended a coffee and conversation event with Supervisor Rowe’s representative on May 13. - Attended the Barstow College Foundation Scholarship Awards on May 15. - Attended the GED Graduation at Barstow College on May 16. - Participated in the 30th anniversary celebration for veterans, honoring Beverly (Bev) Lowry, the founder and primary advocate behind the establishment of the Veterans Home of California in Barstow.
- Attended the Chamber Breakfast on May 19.
- Noted that during these conferences, he connects with many individuals who commend the city manager and staff for their excellent work.
- Mentioned that he attends the Barstow Christian Ministerial Association luncheon every month, where they decided where to hold the National Day of Prayer and will suggest making it an annual event at City Hall.
- At the city-county meeting, he spoke with various county and other cities officials and commended the city manager for building productive relationships with those entities, stating that she is guiding Barstow in the right direction.
STAFF REPORTS:
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Reminded everyone of the upcoming meetings:
• Finance Committee Meeting on May 28 at 3 PM in the City Council Chambers. • City Council Meeting on Tuesday, June 2 at 5 PM at Barstow Community College. • Street Committee Meeting on Wednesday, June 3 at 5 PM in the City Council Chambers. • Homeward Bound Committee Meeting on Thursday, June 4 at 5 PM in the City Council Chambers.
- Stated that the County is looking for Grand Jurors; a QR Code will be available on the city's website. - Spoke about the 30th anniversary of the Veterans Home on May 18. - Informed the public of upcoming events:
• Henderson Pool will open on Friday, May 22 from 12 PM to 6 PM. • Swimming lessons (Session 1) will take place from June 11 to July 2; (Session 2) will run from July 9 to July 30.
• On May 24, there will be a celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the Barstow Fire Protection District.
• Memorial Day celebration on May 25 at 11 AM at the cemetery.
Minutes-May 19, 2026
• June 6 at 10 AM, there will be a recognition event for the new sign at the Jeff Eason Sr. Senior Center.
• The senior center will host a state trip to Laughlin on June 18; sign-ups are available at the center.
• Main Street of America Route 66 Caravan on Sunday, June 7 from 5 PM to 8 PM at the Harvey House.
• Main Street USA Festival on Friday and Saturday, October 9 & 10. - Thanked COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS for coordinating the meeting between Burrtec and the cemetery, resulting in a $10,000 donation from Burrtec.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Asked what to expect at the council meeting on June 2 at Barstow Community College. - Inquired about the expected duration of the meeting.
- Requested an update on the status of the cemetery feasibility study. - Suggested that the report be made available to the public and the cemetery district. - Motioned, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE, to make this feasibility study and information available to the public for the June 16 meeting.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Explained that the agenda for the June 2nd meeting will be posted on Tuesday, May 26. Given the length of the agenda, a digital link will be provided, along with printed copies for council review. Staff and the Council will consult with ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY SUMMERS to provide more information on the logistics of the meeting. Water and light refreshments will be available to the public. The public hearing will start at 5 PM, and instead of the usual format, the agenda will focus solely on the General Plan, zoning updates, and items related to the Barstow International Gateway Specific Plan for the public hearing process and council review. - Noted that the duration of the Public Hearing for the Planning Commission was approximately 5 hours.
- Mentioned that the staff presentation will last about 1 hour, followed by public comment. After public comments, the council will discuss and address questions. - Indicated that they could potentially receive up to 100 public comments, with each speaker allowed to speak for 2 minutes; this information is available to the public. - Clarified that the cemetery feasibility study was sent to the council via email, and printed information can be made available upon request.
ADJOURNMENT:
By consensus of the City Council, and with no objections, the Joint Special Meeting was adjourned at 9:23 PM
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office