BARSTOW CITY COUNCIL /
BARSTOW FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
220 EAST MOUNTAIN VIEW STREET
BARSTOW, CA 92311
SEPTEMBER 15, 2026
6:00 PM
(HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE)
MINUTES
JOINT MEETING
Minutes-September 15, 2026
CALL TO ORDER - CLOSED SESSION:
MAYOR SILVA called the closed session meeting to order at 6:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MAYOR SILVA led 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: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON ANY AGENDA ITEM DURING THE DESIGNATED PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD. INDIVIDUALS ATTENDING IN
PERSON ARE ENCOURAGED TO COMPLETE A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD PRIOR TO THE ITEM BEING CONSIDERED. INDIVIDUALS PARTICIPATING REMOTELY SHOULD USE THE ZOOM "RAISE HAND" FEATURE OR FOLLOW THE POSTED INSTRUCTIONS TO REQUEST TO SPEAK.
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.
No request to speak.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
MOTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION:
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Recommended Action:
Conference with Labor Negotiators (Gov. Code § 54957.6) City & District Negotiators: City Manager/District Manager Rochelle Clayton Employee Organizations:
Unit 5 - Barstow Professional Firefighters Association
All Unrepresented Employees
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW JARED reported the following:
-Stated the council met in closed session at 6:06 PM, with all members present to discuss one item:
Conference with Labor Negotiators regarding Unit 5 and all unrepresented employees. Direction was provided to staff and council, but no reportable action was taken. The council recessed from closed session at 6:47 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:
JEREMY BLAKE led 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: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON ANY AGENDA ITEM DURING THE DESIGNATED PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD. INDIVIDUALS ATTENDING IN
PERSON ARE ENCOURAGED TO COMPLETE A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD PRIOR TO THE ITEM BEING CONSIDERED. INDIVIDUALS PARTICIPATING REMOTELY SHOULD USE THE ZOOM “RAISE HAND” FEATURE OR FOLLOW THE POSTED INSTRUCTIONS TO REQUEST TO SPEAK.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
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 COUNCIL TO REARRANGE 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(B), ALLOWING EMERGENCY ITEMS TO BE ADDED BY MAJORITY VOTE, OR ALLOWING ITEMS THAT AROSE TO THE CITY’S ATTENTION AFTER THE AGENDA POSTING DEADLINE, BUT WHICH REQUIRE IMMEDIATE ACTION, TO BE ADDED BY A TWOTHIRDS VOTE OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT AT THE MEETING, OR, IF LESS THAN TWOTHIRDS OF THE COUNCIL MEMBERS ARE PRESENT, A UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THOSE MEMBERS PRESENT.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PRESENTATIONS:
2. UPDATE MAIN STREET USA FESTIVAL
Recommended Action:
Presentation only.
BARSTOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EUGENE BUTTICCI and TIFFANY HILARIDES, CHAIRPERSON FOR THE EVENT, presented the update.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Commended the 27th Annual Main Street USA Festival team for their great work.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
3. MOUNTAIN VIEW MEMORIAL CEMETERY - LANDSCAPE CURBING PROJECT UPDATE Recommended Action:
Receive report presentation and provide feedback to staff.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's Office.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Inquired whether the existing leftover decomposed granite (DG) could be used to cover the road. - Recommended that the cemetery staff be updated on the project's progress. - Expressed gratitude to all donors who made this project possible. - Asked how long the cemetery has been in its current condition without curves. - Thanked SUPERVISOR PAUL COOK for facilitating funding for the project, even though it is not within his jurisdiction.
- Requested clarification on why grass cannot be installed.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked if the project would cover the entire cemetery, noting that older plots currently have no access.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Thanked Mr. Heldreth and Mr. Sluder for providing updates on social media and asked how old the cemetery is.
- Expressed happiness about the progress being made to create a space where people would want to return and share memories with loved ones at gravesides.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Stated that the engineer’s recommendation advised against using grinding material as road base but mentioned that other materials could be utilized.
- Explained that the city’s involvement in the project is to spread the DG, and discussions are underway with the cemetery about using additional rock and installing an irrigation system and trees before the DG is applied.
- Noted that curbing was never installed on the left side of the picture; there was some existing curbing on the right side, but it was damaged at the corners. Staff removed the damaged curbing and replaced it, but in some sections, no curbing was ever installed. - Clarified that grass is significantly costly in terms of water usage. The cemetery previously had a well that fell into disrepair, and now, being within the water district, there are strict regulations that make it difficult to drill a new well. They have been trying to coordinate with Golden State Water, but numerous rules surrounding irrigation and water have created challenges, leading to high water bills.
- Explained that there are three sections of the cemetery that are not paved and consist solely of dirt. The DG will cover all three sections; two have already been completed, and work is still needed for one location and the veterans' area.
- Mentioned he is unsure of the cemetery’s age but noted that it is quite old.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
4. POLICE DEPARTMENT PRESENTATION REGARDING FLOCK SAFETY TECHNOLOGY Recommended Action:
Receive and file a presentation
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY, CAPTAIN DANIEL ARTHUR, AND FLOCK REPRESENTATIVE LILLIE HO presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's office.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Expressed her desire for the presentation to have been made before implementation and City Council approval while discussing the pros and cons of the system. - Inquired about the number of administrators in the city working on this system. - Shared concerns from residents and noted that some of their questions had already been addressed during the presentation.
- Requested that information be posted on the city's website to inform the public and serve educational purposes.
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Mentioned that there is only one administrator in the city responsible for audits and setting the rules for the local system.
- Added that interested parties can visit the Flock website to learn more about the system.
CAPTAIN DANIEL ARTHUR
- Addressed public concerns.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
MAYOR SILVA
- Asked how the locations for the cameras are determined. - Mentioned a resident complaint that the Flock cameras do not capture accident sounds and questioned whether they only detect gunshots or accident noises as well.
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Stated that the cameras can be relocated, but the locations must typically be city-owned; otherwise, permission is required.
CAPTAIN DANIEL ARTHUR
- Explained that the cameras can detect gunshots, fireworks, and accidents. He noted that while technology is not 100% accurate, it does capture a significant number of accidents, though not everything.
SPEAKERS
JOSEPH KOWALLIS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns about agencies sharing Flock camera data with federal entities and emphasized the importance of ensuring this does not occur in Barstow. - Highlighted the power of the tool available to the police department and cautioned that it could also be misused.
- Pointed out there are no federal laws and only one state law regulating license plate readers, leaving residents at the mercy of local police policies. - Asked how easy it is to change the current policy, noting he had read about other agencies abusing information obtained through the system.
- Mentioned that the LA Police Department reported a 32% false-positive rate, resulting in 161 incidents over two months, leading them to cancel their contract. - Raised concerns about certain cities reporting a 71% false-positive rate and suggested the city should allocate funds to hire more police officers instead. - Inquired about the total amount the city has spent on Flock equipment and contracts thus far.
SONIA COMPTON, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Mentioned that she recently had a conversation with the police chief and captain and participated in a ride-along, which helped her understand how the cameras assist the department and dispatchers in resolving incidents.
- Acknowledged public concerns but stated that data and results indicate the system is effective, provided proper policies are in place, and the system is monitored adequately.
PERRY PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Voiced concerns about the installation of Flock cameras in the community, particularly regarding potential rights violations.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Asked whether it is true that the Police Department investigates and collects doorbell camera data when a crime occurs in the neighborhood.
- Inquired if doorbell cameras have safety technology like Flock. - Noted the prevalence of cameras around town and the public's constant surveillance.
CAPTAIN DANIEL ARTHUR
- Confirmed that data collected from doorbell cameras is utilized during criminal incidents and clarified that those do not have safety technology like Flock, meaning any doorbell camera could potentially be hacked.
MAYOR SILVA
- Addressed Mr. Kowallis's questions.
- Asked about the process of changing the policy.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
- Inquired how much money the city has spent on this system and if those funds could be redirected to other police activities.
- Asked what the false-positive rate is.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW JARED
- Stated that the Police Department establishes its own policies, and the City Council can make changes if necessary.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Announced that the current annual agreement for Flock Cameras is $85,000, which includes maintenance and system updates.
- She noted that the recent agreement approved by the council for camera expansion was $180,000 for this fiscal year.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Highlighted that this amount is less than the cost of hiring one police officer.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Requested clarification on the $180,000 spent this fiscal year.
FINANCE DIRECTOR SYDNIE HARRIS
- Clarified that the $180,000 was allocated for the expansion of cameras as directed by the council.
RESULT: PRESENTATION ONLY
GENERAL, NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT: THIS IS THE TIME FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON MATTERS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE CITY’S JURISDICTION. SPEAKERS ARE ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES OR LESS.
INDIVIDUALS WISHING TO SPEAK IN PERSON SHOULD SUBMIT A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD, AND INDIVIDUALS PARTICIPATING REMOTELY SHOULD USE ZOOM’S “RAISE HAND” FEATURE BEFORE THE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD CLOSES. REQUESTS FOR SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE CITY CLERK AT LEAST 48 HOURS BEFORE THE MEETING.
SPEAKERS
GILBERT ASA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Discussed an incident involving the mayor and questioned why another council member became involved.
- Addressed the city attorney and expressed concerns regarding their performance.
ANNA FUZIE, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Reminded the public that the Senior Center will celebrate its 50th anniversary on September 26 and invited residents to attend.
- Thanked city staff for their efforts to keep the community safe.
SHERRY BAILY, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke about a fire that occurred near the BNSF railroad tracks and the Sylvan community on August 5 at approximately 8:09 p.m. She stated that emergency responders arrived at 8:26 p.m., followed by three additional units shortly afterward. She noted that, fortunately, the incident was not catastrophic and no injuries were reported.
- Mentioned submitting a public records request for the incident report and stated that 42 days have passed since the incident and 28 days since the request was submitted without receiving a response. - Asked about the proper procedure for residents to request public records. - Requested an update on the status of her request and an estimated response date. - Stated that the incident presented an opportunity to improve emergency response procedures, public Minutes-September 15, 2026
safety, and preparedness for the Sylvan community.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked about the status of refunds for residents in West Section 7. - Thanked the city manager for arranging for her assistant to contact him. - Asked about the procedures for a civilian police ride-along and expressed concern that such activities may create liability for the City.
- Expressed concerns about a proposed college bond that would impose a tax of $25 per $100,000 on property owners. He noted that, although an oversight committee would be established, the public had not been adequately informed and lacked representation.
VANESSA PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Shared public safety concerns regarding an incident that occurred while she was leaving a local restaurant in the Lenwood area.
PERRY PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE had violated his First Amendment rights during the previous meeting.
- Requested that representatives hold town hall meetings within their respective districts.
JOHN HARRIS, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concern that the Council allows members of the public to attack one another during public comments and requested that the Council address such behavior.
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Discussed the September 11 ceremony at the cemetery and requested that a tent be provided at future events. He also suggested holding the event near the front of the cemetery because access was difficult for people with disabilities. He described the presentation as excellent. - Commented that the American flag presented at the event was wrinkled and should have been pressed.
- Stated that the Council had repeatedly violated the Code of Ethics.
VIRGINIA BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Reminded the Council to follow the Code of Ethics.
- Expressed concern that the Council does not stop attacks directed at members of the audience by other members of the public, adding that ignorance is not an excuse.
JOHN WEAVER, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Discussed incidents involving his dogs and the actions taken by the Police Department. - Requested that the Council intervene, return his dog, and help resolve the matter.
MICHELLE, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Addressed the Council regarding representation and consideration for the residents of Barstow. She expressed concerns about the lack of representation and leadership and stated that members of the public should feel safe and should not feel targeted, attacked, pursued, harmed, or deprived of their property.
- Stated that the Council should act with honor and integrity. - Requested that the Council obtain a mobility scooter, use it during a tour, and report on the challenges and obstacles encountered.
Motion made by COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS, to suspend the rules and allow Ms. Michelle to complete her comments. Motion carried, 5-0.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that the Veterans Day event hosted by the American Legion was successful and well attended. - Commented that the cemetery improvements were progressing and asked whether the Council had Minutes-September 15, 2026
considered a Veterans Day promotion. She suggested having groups of schoolchildren and the Barstow Beauty Queen place flags on the graves of veterans.
- Asked whether the city planned to do something special for the Barstow Mardi Gras Parade because it is associated with Route 66. She also asked whether veterans would participate and stated that something meaningful should be planned.
JIM BROWN, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concerns about Mr. Snell’s comments at the previous meeting and addressed COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAM’S conduct toward him.
- Requested information regarding COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS’ committee assignments.
ET SNELL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Responded to comments made by other community members and stated that he had not been asked to speak about anyone else.
- Addressed COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE regarding a previous comment and expressed concerns about her performance as an elected official.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE raised a Point of Order regarding the public addressing individual members of the audience during public comment period. She instructed Mr.Snell to have his remarks be addressed to the council rather than members of the audience.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
5. CONTINUED ITEM FROM THE SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 MEETING - PUBLIC HEARING AND
TEFRA APPROVAL OF TAX-EXEMPT BOND FINANCING FOR THE BENEFIT OF QKA
HEALTH CORPORATION D/B/A HEALTHSIDE PARTNERS AND MEMBERSHIP IN THE
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC FINANCE AUTHORITY
Recommended Action:
That the City Council:
1. Hold the TEFRA hearing; and
2. Adopt Resolution 5318-2026 authorizing the Mayor on behalf of the City, to enter into the Joint Powers Agreement and providing the TEFRA approval; and
3. Waive the full reading.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's Office.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Raised several questions and concerns regarding the proposed public hearing and the process surrounding QKA Health Corporation’s proposed conversion from a for-profit organization to a nonprofit organization.
- Questioned the urgency of conducting the public hearing. - Stated that she first learned of the August 23 hearing after seeing a notice in the newspaper. - Asked why the matter had been brought before San Bernardino County and why the request was initially presented to the City of Barstow, referencing the applicable policy and its provisions concerning the California Public Finance Authority.
- Stated that she had not been aware of QKA Health Corporation’s intended conversion, and, in her view, the hospital had not adequately informed the public of the proposed change. - Asked why City residents and the City Council had not been informed that financial considerations were contributing to the proposed conversion. She referenced the company’s 2020 bankruptcy and its reduction from approximately 40 hospitals to 11.
- Questioned why an updated letter confirming that the City would have no liability for the bonds had not been provided. She noted that the submitted letter was dated 2017 and stated that she had previously requested an updated letter.
- Stated that her primary concern was the possibility of default. She requested that it be entered into the record that the City of Barstow would not be liable for the bonds. - Asked whether the City would be required to remain a member of the JPA while any funds Minutes-September 15, 2026
remained outstanding.
- Asked for the date of the bond application.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Responded that 11 hospitals were undergoing the process of converting to nonprofit organizations and stated that the proposed bond issuance applied to all 11 hospitals.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW JARED
- Explained that the organization’s financial condition was not the issue under consideration at the hearing.
- Stated that the purpose of the hearing was to provide members of the public with an opportunity to learn about and comment on the proposed bond issuance. - Explained that the bonds would be issued by a joint powers authority (JPA), not by the City. - Stated that federal tax law requires a public forum at which members of the public may receive information regarding the proposed issuance of bonds for an entity located within the community. - Clarified that the City would have no liability for the bonds. - Stated that the organization’s financial condition was not a matter for the City Council to determine as part of the proceeding.
- Explained that the Council’s consideration was whether the City should join the JPA, thereby allowing the JPA to issue bonds for an organization located within the community. - Noted that, although the County could have conducted the hearing under federal law, the city or another governmental agency with jurisdiction could also conduct it. - Explained that the 2017 letter from Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, which provided advice on behalf of the JPA, stated that, based on the firm’s experience, the City would not be liable for the bonds because the City would not issue them, adding that the City’s role was limited to hosting the public hearing.
- Clarified that the City could withdraw from the JPA at any time without incurring liability and could also choose not to join the JPA.
ROBINSON & BRADSHAW ATTORNEYS CHARLES BOWYER AND ALLEN ROBERTSON - Stated that the letter was written in 2017 to address circumstances involving California governmental entities considering membership in the California Public Finance Authority. The letter explained why membership would not expose a governmental entity to liability for bonds approved and issued by the Authority.
- Added that, following the previous meeting, they asked counsel to update the letter but were unable to obtain an updated version. They stated that none of the statutes cited in the 2017 letter appeared to have changed.
- Stated that they contacted the California Public Finance Authority on July 22, 2025, to request information about the TEFRA process and begin the bond application process.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Stated that it was clear the city would not be responsible for the bonds and could withdraw from the JPA at any time.
- Asked when the city learned that it had been requested to host the hearing. - Stated that she also learned of the hearing through the newspaper and that the Council had not been informed. She added that earlier notification would have been helpful. - Referenced a provision stating that, if the City hosted the hearing, the Authority would share a portion of its annual fees with the local agency conducting the hearing. The local agency would receive at least 10% of the Authority’s annual administrative fees collected. - Asked who was responsible for overseeing the agreement.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that she did not recall the exact date but confirmed that the City Clerk’s Office had been contacted and subsequent discussions had taken place.
- Explained that entering the JPA agreement was a decision for the City Council. - Clarified that CITY CLERK SERVICE MANAGER MARIBEL HERNANDEZ was responsible for Minutes-September 15, 2026
negotiating the agreement under the direction of the City Manager and City Attorney.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW JARED
- Clarified that the earliest email he found regarding the matter was sent by MR. CHARLES BOWYER on July 28, 2026.
- Explained that the fees had two components. The city would invoice the applicant for staff time associated with hosting the hearing. In addition, as a member of the JPA, the city would receive 10% of the 1.5-basis-point administrative fee, estimated at approximately $1,470 annually. - Added that the applicant had agreed to pay the city’s invoice even if the city decided not to proceed with joining the JPA
.
ROBINSON & BRADSHAW ATTORNEY CHARLES BOWYER
- Clarified that they had been asked to pay a $5,000 fee for City staff time and legal review.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Requested clarification on whether Quorum Health Corporation became a nonprofit organization on May 21, 2026, when it entered into a merger agreement with Healthside Partners. - Asked whether the hospital would continue to pay property taxes as a nonprofit organization and, if not, how much property tax revenue the City would lose. - Asked why hospital representatives had not approached the city sooner to discuss the matter. - Asked what would happen to the hospital if it defaulted. - Asked whether it was true that uninsured patients were covered under state law and how the proposed conversion would benefit Barstow.
ROBINSON & BRADSHAW ATTORNEY CHARLES BOWYER
- Stated that the merger had not yet occurred. He explained that the agreement was executed in May, but the merger would not occur until certain conditions were satisfied, including approval of the bonds.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that the hospital’s future property tax status had not yet been determined and that the hospital would be required to complete a process through the County. - Added that, according to the current HDL report, the hospital’s property tax contribution was approximately $53,000.
MAYOR SILVA
- Asked how approval of the bonds would benefit the hospital.
BARSTOW COMMUNITY HOSPITAL CEO ADAM LORIS
- Explained that the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1) was expected to reduce rural healthcare funding by approximately $50 billion and negatively affect hospital revenue. - He stated that the proposed transition would help the hospital prepare for the community’s future healthcare needs.
- Explained that nonprofit status could provide future benefits. - He noted that the hospital currently received no state grant funding and had been unable to accept funding from the San Manuel Tribe for maternal-fetal medicine because it lacked a nonprofit entity. - Acknowledged that the conversion could result in some loss of property tax revenue but stated that an agreement contemplated some form of payment in lieu of taxes. - Stated that the hospital notified the city in May of its intent to become a nonprofit organization and apologized for not communicating more effectively.
- Explained that, when an entity enters bankruptcy, a trustee becomes involved and the deed is subsequently refinanced.
- Expressed appreciation for the community’s concern for the hospital and stated that continuing the process offered a better opportunity for the community. - Explained that the conversion would help create a more comprehensive hospital. - He stated that the hospital had difficulty recruiting certain specialists because, while working for Minutes-September 15, 2026
a for-profit institution, they would not qualify for government student loan forgiveness programs. - He estimated that the hospital lost approximately five potential specialists each year because of its for-profit status.
- Stated that the community was currently short of approximately 12 healthcare providers.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Added that similar conversions had occurred in many cities and that the process had therefore become relatively routine.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Expressed concern that the full City Council had not been notified of the proposed change in May.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Expressed concern about potential Brown Act violations and explained that this was why the information had not been discussed among Council members.
MAYOR SILVA opened the public hearing at 9:57 p.m.
SPEAKERS
TED WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that he was confused because he had understood that the city built the hospital. - Asked how the proposed $98 million in bond proceeds would be spent, how much would be used each year, and how long the bond term would be.
- Emphasized the need for a high-quality hospital and asked what would be done to ensure that the hospital’s classification would increase.
THERESA TANK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that she wanted assurance that neither the City nor Barstow residents would incur any liability related to the bonds.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that a town hall meeting should have been held to provide the information to the public. - Expressed concern that some Council members had received the information earlier but had not informed the public.
- Expressed concern that the JPA had not provided an updated letter confirming that the City would have no liability for the bonds.
- Noted that the hospital had previously filed for bankruptcy and expressed concern that it could do so again.
- He suggested that the Council allow another entity to purchase and properly operate the hospital, stating that the proposed action would not benefit the community. - Stated that he was upset because the community needed the hospital, but it also needed qualified people to operate it properly.
- Objected to the public not being notified or given an opportunity to provide input until the public hearing.
- Added that it was the Council’s responsibility to inform and represent the public. - Asked how much revenue the city would receive compared with the estimated $53,000 in lost property tax revenue.
- Requested written assurance that the City would have no liability for the bonds.
Motion by COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, to suspend the rules and allow Mr. Hernandez to complete his comments. The motion carried, 5-0.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Spoke in agreement with Mr. Hernandez.
- Thanked those who cared for the hospital and the community.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
MAYOR SILVA closed the public hearing at 10:08 p.m.
MAYOR SILVA called for a 10-MINUTE BREAK
MAYOR SILVA called the meeting back to order at 10:20 pm with all members present.
MAYOR SILVA
- Noted that an inaccurate statement had been made regarding the hospital’s rating and requested clarification.
BARSTOW COMMUNITY HOSPITAL CEO ADAM LORIS
- Stated that the hospital had an F rating before he took over and currently has a C rating, twotenths of a point below a B.
Motion to approve item as presented was made by COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE.
DISCUSSION
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Clarified that he had discussed the hospital with FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS and Mr. Loris two weeks earlier and had asked the same questions.
- He added that he had known nothing about the matter before that discussion.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Requested that COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS refrain from making personal attacks and adhere to the code of ethics.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ called a point of order and requested that the Council confine its discussion to the matter under consideration.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Stated that the entire Council and community supported the hospital and recognized the need for its services.
- She requested a letter confirming that the City would have no liability. - Requested clarification regarding the potential loss of approximately $53,000 in property tax revenue.
- Asked when the payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT PROGRAM) agreement would be presented to the Council for review.
CITY ATTORNEY ANDREW JARED
- Clarified that a 2017 letter from the JPA’s attorneys addressed potential liability. - He explained that the agreement contained contractual indemnity provisions protecting the City and that the City is not part of the contractual chain. The bonds would be an agreement among the JPA, the bondholder, and the investors.
- Stated that the PILOT agreement would be entirely voluntary for both parties and that the City could not coerce or require the other party to enter it.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that the City would lose approximately $53,000 in property tax revenue but would receive 10% of the 1.5-basis-point administrative fee, estimated at approximately $1,470 annually. - Added that Mr. Loris had referenced the PILOT PROGRAM agreement, which they had discussed the previous day, and that staff would meet to move the matter forward. - Clarified that PILOT PROGRAM agreement stood for “payment in lieu of taxes.” - She explained that, if the hospital completed the County’s process to obtain a property tax exemption, the City and the hospital could enter into a PILOT PROGRAM agreement. Under that Minutes-September 15, 2026
agreement, the City would receive payment in place of approximately $53,000 in property tax revenue it would otherwise lose.
- Clarified that the bond agreement and conversion to nonprofit status would need to be completed before it would be appropriate to present the PILOT PROGRAM agreement to the Council. - Added that Mr. Loris had approached her and recommended beginning the discussions, emphasizing that the hospital was raising the matter voluntarily.
A SUBSEQUENT MOTION was made by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE, to amend the original motion to require staff and legal fees be invoiced and paid in full before the execution of the JPA agreement.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Stated that she was pleased the community’s questions and concerns had been clarified. - Requested that the record reflects that the agreement would create no liability for the City.
MAYOR SILVA
- Clarified that the city had not purchased the hospital; rather, the city had sold it and no longer owned it.
- Stated that the liability issue was addressed in Section A of the Finance Powers Agreement. - Stated that he first learned of the matter around May or June, when he received an email from Mr. Rader.
- He explained that he did not ask any questions until the item was placed on the agenda two weeks earlier and that he received information at the same time as the other Council members. - He added that he had not discussed the matter with COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS. - Regarding the subsequent motion, he asked whether anything would prevent the fees from being paid in the proposed manner.
ROBINSON & BRADSHAW ATTORNEY CHARLES BOWYER
- Confirmed that, during their initial discussions with the City Clerk’s Office, they had agreed to pay the fees upon approval and receipt of an invoice and before execution of the JPA agreement.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: Barbara Mae Rose, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CONSENT CALENDAR PUBLIC COMMENT: THIS IS THE TIME FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL ON MATTERS LISTED ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR. SPEAKERS ARE
ASKED TO LIMIT THEIR COMMENTS ON ALL CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS TO A TOTAL OF THREE MINUTES OR LESS. INDIVIDUALS WISHING TO SPEAK IN PERSON SHOULD SUBMIT A SPEAKER REQUEST CARD, AND INDIVIDUALS PARTICIPATING REMOTELY SHOULD USE ZOOM’S “raise hand” FEATURE BEFORE THE CONSENT CALENDAR IS CONSIDERED. REQUESTS FOR SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS SHOULD BE SUBMITTED TO THE CITY CLERK AT LEAST 48 HOURS BEFORE THE MEETING.
MINUTES ALL AGENCIES:
6. MINUTES OF THE JOINT MEETING - AUGUST 18, 2026
Recommended Action:
Approve minutes as presented.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ALL AGENCIES:
7. RATIFICATION OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE EXPENDITURES FOR JULY 2026 Recommended Action:
Approve and ratify expenses, as audited checks #103858-103951 totaling $5,470,580.43 and wires #1344-1358 totaling $255,680.80, per the Agency breakdown below:
City: $5,627,425.02
Fire: $98,836.21
Successor Agency: $0.00
Grand Total: $5,726,261.23
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
CITY COUNCIL:
8. CONFIRMATION OF JOB CLASSIFICATIONS AND CORRECTED PUBLICLY AVAILABLE
PAY SCHEDULE
Recommended Action:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 5322-2026 approving the corrected Fifth Amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Publicly Available Pay Schedule, superseding Resolution No. 5320-2026; and
2. Approve the attached job descriptions for the Police Services Manager, Deputy Director Series classifications identified in this report.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
9. AWARD OF COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS TO THE BARSTOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR THE 27TH ANNUAL MAIN STREET USA ROUTE 66 FESTIVAL AND ASSOCIATED FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 8-10, 2026 AND ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION 5323-2026 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BARSTOW TEMPORARILY CLOSING CERTAIN STREETS IN ACCORDANCE WITH CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE SECTION 21101(E) FOR THE 27TH ANNUAL MAIN STREET
USA FESTIVAL
Recommended Action:
1. That the Council approve in-kind donations in the form of fee waivers totaling $33,688.16 to cover the cost of facility use, city staff and equipment costs associated with facility use and road closures, law enforcement security services, and associated permit fees required for the 27th Annual Main Street USA Festival, being held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, as well as associated festival activities being held at the Harvey House on October 8-9, 2026.
2. Adopt Resolution No. 5323-2025, temporarily closing certain streets within the City of Barstow in accordance with California Vehicle Code Section 21101(e) for the 27th Annual Main Street USA Minutes-September 15, 2026
Route 66 Festival, and waive the full reading.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
10. COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUND APPLICATION FROM THE BARSTOW COLLEGE
FOUNDATION FOR THEIR FALL FUNDRAISER
Recommended Action:
That the Council approve the Barstow College Foundation’s request for a waiver of City fees totaling $2,144.86 for its Fall Fundraiser, scheduled for October 2, 2026 at the Harvey House.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
11. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING INTERMITTENT STREET CLOSURES ALONG RIMROCK ROAD, BETWEEN H STREET AND LOVATO AVENUE, AS PART OF THE FY 25-26 STREET
REHABILITATION PROJECT
Recommended Action:
Staff recommends the City Council take the following action:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 5324-2026, approving intermittent street closures on Rimrock Road between H Street and Lovato Avenue beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, September 28, 2026, through the end of day on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the following intersections:
Rimrock Road and all intersections, between H Street and Lovato Avenue, defined as follows:
o Intermittent Road closures, with detoured routes, at the intersections of Rimrock Road and D, E, F, G, & H Streets.
o Intermittent Road closures, with detoured routes, at the intersections of Rimrock Road and Cochise Road.
o Intermittent Road closures, with detoured routes, at the intersections of Rimrock Road and Highland Avenue.
o Intermittent Road closures, with detoured routes, at the intersections of Rimrock Road and Dolomite Street.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
12. AWARD OF MEASURE Q YOUTH COMMUNITY PROMOTIONAL FUNDS FY 26-27 Recommended Action:
Approve Measure Q Youth Community Promotional Fund allocations totaling $127,818.39 for the seven youth sports organizations identified in this report for Fiscal Year 2026-2027.
SPEAKERS
DAVID SICKLER-BARSTOW LITTLE LEAGUE SOFTBALL, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA - Stated that he submitted his Measure Q application and was then asked by Mr. Chapa to revise it to include payment for a city employee to operate the scoreboard totaling $6,200. He asked Minutes-September 15, 2026
whether those funds could instead be used for needed items, such as field equipment, snack bar, small snack bar appliances, and catcher’s gear to keep the girls safe, rather than paying $6,200 for work that volunteers had agreed to perform.
SONIA COMPTON, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Noted that the budget for Item 12 totals $127,818.39 during only the first quarter of the fiscal year, while the budget for the entire year is $150,000. She expressed concern that this would leave little funding for spring sports.
- Mentioned that, as a Measure Q commissioner, she understood that $120,000 remained unspent from the previous year. She asked where that money went and requested clarification on whether it rolls over or is transferred to the General Fund.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked what the Council and City would do next year if no money remained because all the funds had been spent on the Police and Fire Departments.
MAYOR SILVA
- Requested that Mr. Sickler’s questions be answered.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Asked whether Mr. Sickler’s organization could spend the funds elsewhere. - Requested clarification regarding Redemption Softball, noting that a sticky note on the application states that it is incomplete.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that volunteers had previously been permitted to operate the scoreboards. However, after the City experienced damage, it was determined that insurance and waivers would be required for volunteers to operate City equipment. The associated costs could exceed the cost of using parttime staff. The city is therefore asking part-time staff, which is the lower-cost option, to operate the scoreboards, access the facilities, and ensure they are opened and locked as part of the transition currently underway.
- Clarified that the answer to Mr. Sickler’s question was no; the funds must be used for staff time. - Mentioned that, during her meeting that afternoon with Mr. Woods, who is currently overseeing Parks and Recreation, he informed her that all items had been received. She added that additional information could be provided if needed.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
SECONDER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
DISCUSSION / ACTION ON DEFERRED ITEMS: (ITEMS PREVIOUSLY TABLED OR PULLED FROM THE
CONSENT CALENDAR BY THE COUNCIL WILL BE CONSIDERED BY THE GOVERNING BOARD AT THIS TIME).
BUSINESS / ACTION ITEMS:
13. APPROVAL OF CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION ADJUSTMENTS FOR THE
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MANAGER, HUMAN RESOURCES/RISK MANAGER AND
REVISED RETIRED ANNUITANT - SPECIAL PROJECTS EXECUTIVE JOB DESCRIPTION Recommended Action:
Staff is recommending the following:
1. Approve placement of the Information Technology Manager and Human Resources/Risk Manager classifications in the same job family and salary range established for comparable City’s Minutes-September 15, 2026
manager-level classifications;
2. Approve the revised Retired Annuitant - Special Projects Executive job description to reflect the temporary, specialized nature of the classification and applicable CalPERS requirements;
3. Adopt Resolution No. 5325-2026 approving the Seventh Amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 Publicly Available Pay.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR KIM TURNER presented the report as filed with the City Clerk's Office.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Asked what the fiscal impact is.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR KIM TURNER
- Stated the fiscal impact is noted in the staff report and is a total of $34,052.16. - Clarified that both positions are under her leadership.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
14. ROUTE 66 POCKET PARK REVITALIZATION UPDATE AND NAMING DIRECTION Recommended Action:
Receive the update and results of the Route 66 Pocket Park Naming Survey and provide direction to staff regarding selection of a park name that reflects Barstow’s history, character, and Route 66 spirit.
Motion made by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, seconded by MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE, to suspend the rules and continue the meeting past 11:00 p.m. Motion approved by a vote of 4-1, with COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE voting no.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH and CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON presented the report as filed with the City Clerk’s Office.
SPEAKERS
PERRY PACK, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Expressed concern about the lack of a barrier at Roy’s Cafe between Main Street and the business. He stated that discussions had been held with the business owner and property owner regarding installation of the barrier.
- Noted the property owner wants to consult with the City regarding the appropriate dimensions and materials and will submit that information. Added that the cost of the barrier would not be paid by the City but by the business owner, who is working with the property owner on the matter. - Expressed appreciation for the upgrades made to improve Barstow, particularly along Route 66, and stated that he looked forward to seeing the result. - Recognized FORMER ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER KEN CHAPA for his work during his time in Barstow and thanked everyone involved.
MIKE HERNANDEZ, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Asked why the red tag had been removed from the green building.
MARSHA WEASMA, BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA
- Stated that it was great that the public had been included in naming the park and noted that several excellent names had been proposed.
- Asked why the red tag was no longer visible on the green building.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
- Referred to the September 1 meeting, when COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE discussed having the owner of the property address the building.
- Stated that changes had been made to the building and asked whether they complied with the City’s building code.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Asked staff for an update on the proposed barrier for Roy’s Cafe and whether it could be incorporated into the current upgrades so that it would align with the project as it moves forward. - Asked whether the proposed park names were listed in order of the number of nominations received.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Stated that the Council had previously agreed that the city would install a recognition sign for Village Cafe and asked for an update on the sign.
- Asked whether the green building remained under red tag status and how close the property was to achieving compliance, including whether a deadline had been established. - Asked whether the park would be fenced.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Clarified that if the city designs and installs the barrier, it must be located within the public rightof-way, and the city would be responsible for the work. - Stated that the city would not design a barrier on private property if the property owner were responsible for it.
- Mentioned that discussions had taken place with the City Engineer and Traffic Engineer and that several options could be used at that location.
- Stated that the matter would be brought before the Street Committee for review and that the City Engineer would provide a presentation.
- Stated that FORMER ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER KEN CHAPA had contacted Village Cafe regarding a plaque and that staff was actively working on the matter. - Clarified that the green building remained under red-tag status. - Stated that staff are required to drive by monthly and physically inspect each red-tagged property to ensure the tag remains in place. Added that if a tag is missing, staff are notified and the property will be re-tagged.
- Explained that the building remained red-tagged because the interior was unsafe. - Stated that staff were continuing to work on the case and that citations had been issued to the property owner.
- Clarified that the park would not be fenced. It would have three access points, benches, three seating areas, and three shade structures. Access would be available from Main Street and First Street, at the corner of the park, and from the improved parking lot, which would include a ramp.
The park’s hours would be 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and the operating hours would be posted throughout the park.
ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER SUZANN NELSON
- Clarified that the proposed park names were listed in order of the number of nominations received. - Stated that staff had contacted the owner of Village Cafe and were awaiting a response from the business owner before planning the recognition ceremony.
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Asked whether the neon sign at Village Cafe, which the city had previously told the business could not be illuminated, was an operational matter.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR CHRIS HELDRETH
- Stated that he was not certain.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that staff was seeking direction from Council regarding how it wanted to proceed with naming the park.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Stated that she wanted to make a motion and that she particularly liked the names “Route 66 Heroes Park” and “Barstow Veterans Park.”
Motion made by COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE to name the park “Route 66 Heroes Park.” Motion died for lack of a second.
Motion made by MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE, seconded by COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ, to name the park “Main Street Heritage Park.” Motion passed by a vote of 5-0.
RESULT: APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
SECONDER: Carmen Hernandez, Council Member
AYES: Noble, Rose, Williams, Hernandez, Silva
PD - PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATES:
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Presented statistics for August 2026: Dispatch received a total of 6,351 calls, including 2,605 calls for service. The department filed 325 police reports, submitted 81 cases to the District Attorney’s Office, issued 55 traffic citations, and made 47 felony adult arrests, 100 misdemeanor adult arrests, 5 felony juvenile arrests, and 2 misdemeanor juvenile arrests, for a total of 151 arrests. - September 5, 2026, staff attended the 9/11 Commemoration Ceremony at Mountain View Memorial Park.
- September 8, 2026, the department conducted a swearing-in ceremony for four new officers. - September 9, 2026, department staff met with area leaders to discuss current issues and events at the monthly San Bernardino County Coffee and Conversation meeting. - September 11, 2026, department staff attended the grand opening of the Youth Empowerment Senter and the 9/11 ceremony at Barstow Community College.
- September 12, 2026, staff supported the Barstow Rodeo by assisting with traffic control and event security.
- September 14, 2026, the Barstow Police Department hosted a quality-of-life proactive enforcement operation with several departments and agencies.
- Explained that the purpose of the operation was to clear vacant properties, clean up abandoned encampments, and connect members of the unhoused community with available community resources.
The results of the event were also provided.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Stated that BNSF participated by removing approximately four tons of trash from the side of the freeway.
- Commended the police officers for their professionalism and the excellent work they perform.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Thanked the Police Chief, Fire Chief, and their departments for all they did.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
COUNCIL COMMITTEE REPORTS:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Attended the Southern California Association of Governments meeting on September 10, where nothing related to Barstow was discussed.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Attended the Military Affairs meeting on September 8 and announced that the Military Mixer would be held on September 18 at the Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow. - Informed the Council that the next Victor Valley Transit Authority meeting would be held on September 21 in Hesperia.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Informed the public that the Homeward Bound Committee meeting had been canceled. She stated that an item would be placed on a future agenda and clarified that she serves as co-chair and the mayor serves as chair.
- Noted that the Rules and Policy Committee had not yet met and asked for an update on the nocamping policy.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that she did not have that information but would follow up with staff.
ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER SUZANN NELSON
- Stated that the meeting had not been scheduled, but staff was routing the policy for review and approval by staff and legal counsel.
- Stated that the meeting is planned for early October.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Had nothing to report.
MAYOR SILVA
- Attended the San Bernardino Council of Governments Board of Directors meeting on September 2.
He stated that nothing related to Barstow was discussed, but the board discussed a smart-road project in Victorville, Hesperia, and Apple Valley involving coordinated traffic signals. - Attended the Street Committee meeting on September 2 and received an update on the completion of Section 7, which was estimated for the end of October. Improvements at Rimrock Road and Barstow Road were estimated for completion in April 2027.
- Attended the San Bernardino Council of Governments General Policy Committee meeting in San Bernardino on September 9 and stated that nothing related to Barstow was discussed.
BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL:
COUNCIL MEMBER HERNANDEZ
- Requested that POLICE CHIEF KIRBY organize a workshop to educate the public about electric bicycles.
- Expressed concern about the issue and noted that there had recently been an incident involving a child.
MAYOR PRO TEM NOBLE
- Asked whether POLICE CHIEF KIRBY was familiar with the history behind Mr. Weaver’s complaints regarding his dogs.
- Asked whether Mr. Weaver was aware of everything that was occurring. - Asked whether staff could organize an event recognizing local veterans in the community. - Requested that staff contact Mrs. Renita Wicks, who is involved with a local nonprofit organization, to collaborate and develop ideas.
- Reported that he attended the 9/11 event at Fort Irwin and the Marine Corps Logistics Base Rodeo Minutes-September 15, 2026
the previous weekend, describing the rodeo as an outstanding and well-attended event. - Reported that he attended the swearing-in ceremony for the new officers. - Thanked FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS for his service to the community. - Thanked the Police Department and staff for all they did.
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Stated that there had been multiple follow-ups and that Pat Walsh had conducted a hearing. - Added that several incidents occurred afterward.
- Mentioned that staff would investigate organizing an event but noted that veterans are also recognized at other events, such as the Mardi Gras Parade.
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Stated that Mr. Weaver’s comments lacked significant information regarding the history of the matter and noted that lawsuits were involved and that the issue had been ongoing for some time. - Explained that the process begins with a Police Department review, proceeds to the City Manager, and has now advanced to the courts.
- Clarified that there had been ongoing communication with Mr. Weaver and that he should be aware of the situation.
COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE
- Thanked FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS for his service to the City of Barstow. - Spoke about consistency, fairness, and integrity at the Council table. - She referred to an incident at the previous meeting in which COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS called a point of order regarding her movements at the dais.
- Stated that she felt harassed, bullied, and singled out. - Asked when ordinary actions at the Council table became grounds for public scrutiny and accusations. - Noted that, as a Council Member, she understood that her votes, decisions, policy positions, and actions as a public official are subject to public scrutiny and stated that she accepted that responsibility. - Stated that all Council Members should be held to the same standards and be subject to the same accountability, rather than selective enforcement.
- Stated that COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS had violated the Code of Conduct based on the way she referred to her earlier in the meeting.
- Stated that she was being targeted, harassed, and bullied by her colleague and that the conduct needed to stop.
- Reiterated that she felt targeted, harassed, and bullied by her colleague and that the conduct needed to stop.
COUNCIL MEMBER WILLIAMS
- Stated that COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE had asked the City Manager whether City resources were being spent on the Homeless Action Committee.
- Clarified that no committee members have been paid or received money from the city or any other source, adding that the committee is self-funded and that members sometimes contribute out of their own pockets.
- Reported that the committee had helped 160 people get off the streets and noted that he was prepared for the challenge.
- Disagreed with COUNCIL MEMBER ROSE’S comments and stated that he was not harassing her. - Clarified that neither he nor the Homeless Action Committee received funding or assistance from the city and that, when police assistance was needed, he contacted dispatch. - Described the committee’s work, including helping people get off the streets, connecting them with mental health services, and assisting people discharged from the hospital who had nowhere to go. - Stated that he was working on the streets to help the community and clean up the city, adding that the committee had removed approximately 60 tons of trash.
MAYOR SILVA
- Thanked FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS for his service and contributions to Barstow and wished him Minutes-September 15, 2026
success in his future endeavors.
- September 3, he attended the Employee Recognition Luncheon and thanked the city for organizing the event for its employees.
- September 5, he attended the 9/11 remembrance event. He clarified that the event was organized by the U.S. Veterans Support Group and that the American Legion participated and played a significant role.
- September 8, he attended the Military Affairs meeting, the swearing-in ceremony for four new officers, and a luncheon hosted by the Barstow Christian Ministry Association, which included a presentation about upcoming activities.
- Added that he attended the Tim Heiden Foundation’s Life for Christ meeting regarding a major Christmas Eve event.
- September 10, he attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for El Pollo Loco, celebrating its 23rd year in Barstow.
- September 11, he attended the flag-lowering ceremony at the Barstow Fire District and the ceremony commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11 at Barstow College. He thanked the organizers for presenting the event.
- Added that he also attended the Youth Empowerment Senter. - September 12, he attended the rodeo at the Marine Corps Logistics Base and described it as a wellattended event with good food.
CITY MANAGER UPDATE/REPORT:
CITY MANAGER ROCHELLE CLAYTON
- Responded to several questions from members of the public. - Addressed a question regarding the availability of Police Department ride-along for members of the public.
- Clarified that police ride-along are available to the public and require an application and waiver through the Police Department.
- Noted that Mr. Hernandez had asked a question regarding West Section 7. She stated that she was unsure about the nature of the question and would follow up with him for clarification. - Addressed Mrs. Compton’s question regarding Measure Q funding. She stated that the City Council had approved $150,000 for the Measure Q Youth Community Promotional Fund and that funding requests for Fiscal Year 2026–2027 totaled $127,818.39, which is application-based. - Clarified that unused funding from the previous fiscal year does not carry over. - Noted that there had been delays in the process during the previous year and that more of the budget might have ultimately been used.
- She reiterated that any remaining funds would not carry over, adding that if additional funding is needed this year, staff will return to the City Council for direction. - Announced that FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS had accepted another opportunity but would continue working with a partner agency. She thanked him for his service and contributions to the Barstow community and wished him the best in his next chapter.
- Provided an update on upcoming meetings and presented photographs from local events attended by staff and Council members.
- Stated that staff was seeking public input on the Barstow Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. - Announced National Cleanup Day would take place on Saturday, September 19, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., and noted the need for volunteers.
- Announced that the city was hiring and highlighted the positions currently available. - Announced Space Camp events scheduled for September 12 and 26. - Reminded everyone that the Main Street USA Festival would take place October 9 and 10. - Invited the public to attend the Barstow Fire Protection District’s centennial event on October 17. - Announced several activities scheduled for October.
- Announced upcoming events at the Barstow Senior Center. - Invited FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS to share remarks at his final City Council meeting.
Minutes-September 15, 2026
POLICE CHIEF CHRISTOPHER KIRBY
- Stated that the Police Department’s ride-along policy was available on its website for public review. - Clarified that the policy allows members of the public to participate in ride-along with the approval of the Chief of Police.
FIRE CHIEF CISNEROS
- Thanked the community and the Fire Protection District staff for their support.
ADJOURNMENT:
By consensus of the City Council, and with no objections, the Joint Session Meeting was adjourned in honor of Ms. Nancy Baca at 11:56 PM.
Respectfully Submitted: Approved:
_______________________________ _______________________________ Andrea Flores, City Clerk Timothy R. Silva, Mayor
Notice: Signed Minutes are filed with the City Clerk’s office