Blythe City Council
January 9, 2024

BLYTHE CITY COUNCIL
Blythe *
*
ESTABLISHED 1916
AGENDA
JANUARY 9, 2024
6:00 P.M.

Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
Johnny Z. Rodriguez, Vice Mayor
Doses alby, Is Council Member
MEETINGS ARE HELD IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER, 235 NORTH BROADWAY, BLYTHE, CA Blythe CITY OF BLYTHE

CITY COUNCIL MEETING
January 9, 2024
5:15pm

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL
Mayor DeConinck Interim City Manager/City Clerk Crecelius Police Chief Dale Vice Mayor Rodriguez City Attorney Roberto Public Works Director McLaughlin Councilman Reynolds City Treasurer/Finance Director Elms Councilman Halby Fire Chief Hasler
Councilman Burton Chief Building Official Brown
PUBLIC COMMENT: Members of the public may address the City Council only on those items listed on the Closed Session agenda. Speakers are asked to identify themselves by stating their name and address for the record. Comments shall be limited to 3 minutes in duration.

CLOSED SESSION:

1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1). Name of Case: Salton Seas Estates III LLC v. City of Blythe, Riverside County Superior Court Case No. CVBL2100172.

2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6. Agency Designated Representative: Mallory Crecelius. Unrepresented Employee:

Police Chief.

NOTE TO THE PUBLIC:

In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact City Clerk Mallory Crecelius at (760) 922-6161-EXT. 1237. Notification 24 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.104 ADA Title I).

Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available for Public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California during normal business hours. In addition, such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website:
www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.

Blythe Blythe City Council Meeting
January 9, 2024
6:00pm

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL
Mayor DeConinck Interim City Manager/City Clerk Crecelius Police Chief Dale City Attorney Roberto Public Works Director McLaughlin
Vice Mayor Rodriguez
Councilman Reynolds City Treasurer/Finance Director Elms Councilman Halby Chief Building Official Brown
Councilman Burton Fire Chief Hasler

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

INVOCATION

ADDED STARTER
The City Council may add an item to the Agenda after making a finding that there is a need to take immediate action on the item and that the item came to the attention of the City Council and/or staff subsequent to the posting of the Agenda. An action adding an item to the Agenda requires a 2/3 vote of the City Council (4 of 5 Council Members). If less than 2/3 of the City Council is present, adding an item to the Agenda requires a unanimous vote.

REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION:

PRESENTATION: (Items 1-2)

1. Recognition of Palo Verde High School Athletes for their Outstanding Athletic and Educational Achievements.

Presentation by the 2023-2024 Fair Ambassadors.

CONSENT CALENDAR- (Items 3-17)
I matters listed under Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussi these items prior to the time of voting on the motion unless members of the Council or staff request specific items be discussed and/ removed from the Consent Calendar for separate action.

3. Posting of the Agenda.

The summary of agenda items were posted on the bulletin boards on the outside of the public entrance to the Council Chamber and near the inside entrance of the Council Chamber on Friday, January 5, 2024.

4. Approval of the Warrant Register.

Recommendation: Approve 1/9/24, warrants numbered 10442 through 10478 and 77607 through 77644 in the amount of $902,885.67; 1/9/24, Utility Billing Refund warrants numbered 77645 through 77656 in the amount of $1,131.35 and 1/9/24, warrants numbered 10479 through 10487 and 77657 through 77677 in the amount of $157,753.81.

5. Approval of the Payroll Register.

Recommendation: Approve 1/9/24, warrants numbered 54122 through 54130 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 57539 through 57556 in the amount of $154,687.22; 1/9/24, warrants numbered 54131 through 54132 in the amount of $443.78; 1/9/24, warrants numbered 54133 through 54152 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 57557 through 57625 in the amount of $288,119.65; 1/9/24, warrants numbered 54153 through 54168 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 57626 through 57693 in the amount of $261,173.72; 1/9/24, warrant numbered 54169 and Direct Deposit warrant numbered 57694 in the amount of $57,679.44 and 1/9/24, warrants numbered 54170 through 54184 and Direct Deposit warrants numbered 57695 through 57789 in the amount of $74,377.17.

Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available for Public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California during normal business hours. In addition such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.

Minutes of the December 7, 2023, Special City Council Meeting.

Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the December 7, 2023 Special Meeting.

Minutes of the December 12, 2023 City Council Meeting.

Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the December 12, 2023 Meeting.

8. City of Blythe Permits Issued for the Month of December 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file this monthly report.

9. City of Blythe Fire Department Monthly Activity Report for December 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.

10. City of Blythe Police Department Monthly Activity Report for December 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report

11. Quality of Life Program Activity Report for November 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.

12. Investment Report for Second Quarter of Fiscal Year 2023-2024.

Recommendation: Receive and file the quarterly report.

13. Amendment Number One to Agreement with Joe A. Gonsalves and Son for State Legislative Advocacy Servies.

Recommendation: Authorize the Interim City Manager to execute Agreement No. 2024-001 A and execute any future amendments to the agreement that do not increase the maximum compensation.

Acceptance of a 2,216 Square Foot Portion of Real Property Located on Quail Run Road.

Recommendation: Adopt Resolution No. 2024-001:

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-001. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ACCEPTING A GRANT DEED FOR THE CONVEYANCE OF A 2,216 SQUARE FOOT PORTION

OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED ALONG QUAIL RUN ROAD, CONSENTING TO THE RECORDATION OF THE

GRANT DEED AND AUTHORIZING THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE.

15. Ordinance No. 923-23 Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code.

Recommendation: Adopt Ordinance No. 923-23:

ORDINANCE NO. 923-23. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING CHAPTER 17.26 (SIGNS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MÚNICIPAL CODE

AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION).

16. Ordinance Prohibiting the Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converters.

Recommendation: Adopt Ordinance No. 924-23:

ORDINANCE NO. 924-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 9.94 (UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER) TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE,

MORALS AND WELFARE) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION). ny writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available fo ublic inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall. 235 N. Broadway, Bivthe, California during normal business hours. In additio such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblvthe.ca.aov.

17. Ordinance Adding Section 2.40.030 relating to Level I Reserve Police Officers.

Recommendation: Adopt Ordinance No. 928-23:

RDINANCE NO. 928-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNI DDING A NEW SECTION 2.40.030 (RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS) TO CHAPTER 2.40 (RECRUITMENT AN TRAINING OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OF TITLE 2 (ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL) OF THE BLYTHE

MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION).

PUBLIC HEARING: (Items 18-19)

18. Ordinance No. 927-23 Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.78 (Environmental Evaluaiton) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code.

Recommendation: Subsequent to the Public Hearing, introduce Ordinance No. 927-23:

RDINANCE NO. 927-23. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNI EPEALING CHAPTER 17.78 (ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTH

MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION).

19. Tentative Parcel Map No. 38860.

Recommendation: Subsequent to the Public Hearing, adopt the following Resolutions approving Tentative Parcel Map No. 38860 with conditions.

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-002. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE CONTAINING

FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF APPROVAL OF A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION WITH DE MINIMIS IMPACT FINDING FOR TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 38860.

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-003. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE CONTAINING FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS IN SUPPORT OF APPROVING TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 38860 TO ALLOW THE DIVISION OF ONE (1) 0.39‡ (GROSS) ACRE PARCEL INTO TWO (2) SEPARATE PARCELS ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 184 N. ACACIA STREET (ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 851-071-014).

CONTINUED BUSINESS: (Item 20)

20. Save Chuck.

Recommendation: Receive and file a report on Save Chuck.

NEW BUSINESS: (Items 21-22)

21. Letter of Support for Grid Alternatives.

Recommendation: Provide direction to staff.

22. Request to Waive Community Center Rental Fees for RAP Foundation Meeting.

Recommendation: Waive Community Center Rental fees in the amount of $500 for the RAP Foundation's use of the Community Center on February 15, 2024.

SUCCESSOR AGENCY: (Item 23)

23. Minutes of the December 12, 2023 Successor Agency Meeting.

Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the December 12, 2023 Successor Agency Meeting.

ORAL REPORTS (Council may ask a question for clarification, make a brief announcement, make a brief report on his/her own activities, request staff to report back at a subsequent meeting concerning any matter, or take action to direct staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.) Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any item on this Agenda will be made available for Public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California during normal business hours. In addition such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.

PUBLIC COMMENT Public comments will be allowed on matters not appearing on the agenda, but within Council/Blythe Successor Agency jurisdiction. Speakers are asked to identify themselves by stating their name and address for the record. Comments shall be limited to 3 minutes in duration.

ADJOURNMENT The next meeting will be held on February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber, 235 N. Broadway, Blythe, California.

NOTE TO THE PUBLIC:

In compliance with the Americans with Disability Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact ADA Coordinator Mallory Crecelius at (760) 922-6161 EXT. 1237 or by email at [email protected]. Notification 24 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.104 ADA Anyirinspe tir in the ily Clerked the a Cily Hal, 2C. Broadiay. Brine, California during Agrd business ours. In abefo such writings and documents will be posted on the City's website: www.cityofblythe.ca.gov.

PRESENTATION
-1-

CONSENT

CALENDAR
- 2-
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 10442 12/13/2023 000247 SOCALGAS 11185732804 020352 NATURAL GAS/PD 11/6-12/6/2023 24.10 Total : 24.10
10443 12/13/2023 000247 SOCALGAS 06622932165 020355 NATURAL/CITY FACILITIES 10/23-11/22/ 113.38 Total : 113.38
10444 12/13/2023 000247 SOCALGAS 07632638008 020356 NATURAL GAS/COMMUNITY CENTER 1 141.37 Total: 141.37
10445 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700240317342 020357 ELECTRICITY/STREET LIGHTING 11/1-1 56.28 Total : 56.28
10446 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700501126797 020358 ELECTRICITY/EV CHARGE STATION 10 171.04 Total: 171.04
10447 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700475898313 020359 ELECTRICITY/HIDDEN BEACHES 10/20 477.65 Total : 477.65
10448 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 70035007007 020361 ELECTRICITYMWTP 10/25-11/26/2023 6,319.87 Total : 6,319.87
10449 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700350166610 020362 ELECTRICITY/PTF 10/25-11/26/2023 8,787.31 Total : 8,787.31
10450 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 700466637136 020363 ELECTRICITY/STREET LIGHTING 11/1-1 15,109.36 Total: 15,109.36
10451 12/13/2023 000283 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON CO 600001510681 020364 ELECTRICITY/CITY FACILITIES 33,347.26 Total: 33,347.26
10452 12/14/2023 003439 SHELL 93751701 020350 GASOLINE/PW 11/6-12/6/2023 200.41 Total: 200.41
10453 12/14/2023 003439 SHELL 93745044 020351 GASOLINE/PD 11/6-12/6/2023 206.51 Total : 206.51
10454 12/15/2023 008236 CA STATE LANDS COMMISSION A0000004194 020331 RENEWAL APPLICATION 3,025.00 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 10454 12/15/2023 008236 008236 CA STATE LANDS COMMISSION (Continued) Total: 3,025.00 10455 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9889248598 020293 PARTS/SUPPLIES 6.77 Total : 6.77
10456 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9916282628 020303 PARTS/SUPPLIES 59.93 020303
Total: 59.93
10457 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9911678226 PARTS/SUPPLIES 71.69 020302
Total: 71.69
10458 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9900367302 020299 PARTS/SUPPLIES 75.07 Total : 75.07
10459 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9900091472 862020 PARTS/SUPPLIES 102.27 Total : 102.27
10460 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER E894649686 020296 PARTS/SUPPLIES 121.17 Total: 121.17
10461 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9911702364 020301 PARTS/SUPPLIES 211.41 Total : 211.41
10462 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9852849034 020292 PARTS/SUPPLIES 264.32 Total: 264.32
10463 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9908808992 020300 PARTS/SUPPLIES 322.28 Total: 322.28
10464 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9898686804 L6Z0ZO PARTS/SUPPLIES 395.81 Total: 395.81
10465 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9896287225 020295 PARTS/SUPPLIES 517.72 Total: 517.72
10466 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9893437955 PARTS/SUPPLIES_ 4,196.03 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 10466 12/19/2023 000869 GRAINGER (Continued)
020294
Total: 4,196.03
10467 12/22/2023 005645 ADT COMMERCIAL 153040144 020328 FIRE/SECURITY ALARM MONITORING 190.60 153040145 020328 FIRE/SECURITY ALARM MONITORING 205.36
153040146 020328 FIRE/SECURITY ALARM MONITORING 190.52
153040147 020328 FIRE/SECURITY ALARM MONITORING 254.90
Total: 841.38
10468 12/22/2023 002768 AIRWAVE BROADBAND WIRELESS 110503 019364 BUSINESS PHONE SERVICE/PW 12/1/2 86.60 110816 019364 BUSINESS PHONE SERVICE/PW 1/1-2/ 91.60
Total : 178.20
10469 12/22/2023 005996 DE LAGE LANDEN PUBLIC FINANCE 81417427 020337 CONTRACT 25563258 12/1-12/31/2023 607.19 81420526 020336 CONTRACT 25559071 12/1-12/31/2023 333.69 81504689 020338 CONTRACT 25340910 12/15/2023-1/14/2 215.81 Total : 1,156.69
10470 12/22/2023 005213 FRONTIER 7609223545 020340 COMMUNICATIONS/ALARM SYSTEM 12 108.37 Total : 108.37
10471 12/22/2023 005213 FRONTIER 7609229375 020341 COMMUNICATIONS/LIFT STATIONS 121 148.20 Total: 148.20
10472 12/22/2023 005213 FRONTIER 9091590013 020344 COMMUNICATION/CITY FACILITIES 12Г. 8,340.80 9091590039 020342 COMMUNICATION/FIRE 12123-1/6/24 450.20 9091590042 020343 CENTRANET ACCESS-SWELLS 12/1-1 2,730.01 Total: 11,521.01
10473 12/22/2023 000869 GRAINGER 9917740707 020304 PARTS/SUPPLIES 198.23 Total: 198.23
10474 12/22/2023 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC B45584 020125 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,060.04 B49548 020305 PARTS/SUPPLIES 57.16
B49954 020306 PARTS/SUPPLIES 34.77
B55562 020307 PARTS/SUPPLIES 28.40
B61199 020242 PARTS/SUPPLIES 147.81
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code: ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 10474 12/22/2023 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC (Continued) B68205 020283 PARTS/SUPPLIES 55.58
B69058 020287 PARTS/SUPPLIES 21.73
B74202 020226 PARTS/SUPPLIES 10.86
U67358 020226 PARTS/SUPPLIES 54.48
U69832 020269 PARTS/SUPPLIES 57.60
Total: 1,528.43
10475 12/22/2023 000213 QUILL LLC 34471355 019704 SUPPLIES 157.68 34473586 019704 SUPPLIES 264.23
34582786 019717 SUPPLIES 233.78
35246613 019940 SUPPLIES 173.66
35913410 020229 SUPPLIES 114.12
Total: 943.47
10476 12/22/2023 003217 SWRCB ACCOUNTING OFFICE WD-0234536 020251 ANNUAL PERMIT FEES 7/1/23-6/30/24 F. 3,746.00 Total: 3,746.00
10477 12/22/2023 003217 SWRCB ACCOUNTING OFFICE WD-0234595 020251 ANNUAL PERMIT FEES 7/1/23-6/30/24 F 26,785.00 Total : 26,785.00
10478 12/22/2023 000350 THOMSON REUTERS/BARCLAYS 849440667 020261 BOOKS/UPDATES - TITLE 19 UPDATES 229.03 Total : 229.03
37 Vouchers for bank code: ap-dir Bank total : 121,708.02 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 77607 12/22/2023 007560 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES, INC 17KKNNHJRX99 020268 PARTS/SUPPLIES 49.86 1J74XD7WXMTP 020329 PARTS/SUPPLIES 88.98
1V4M1TCP1HPP 020256 PARTS/SUPPLIES 63.33
Total : 202.17
77608 12/22/2023 002453 AMCS GROUP INC 147271 019503 FLEET MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE 1/29 801.36 Total: 801.36
77609 12/22/2023 008221 AMERICAN MEDICAL RESPONSE COB23-12-13 020285 SUPPLIES 40.00 Total : 40.00
77610 12/22/2023 007657 ASPEN TREE ENVIRONMENTAL ASR1214#2200 020244 INSPECTION/SAMPLING SERVICES 1,300.00 Total : 1,300.00 *
77611 12/22/2023 007828 BECK OIL, INC 92127CL 020290 FUEL 704.56 Total: 704.56
77612 12/22/2023 000564 BLYTHE VOLUNTEER 2024-100 020330 2024 FIREWORKS CONTRIBUTION 10,000.00 Total : 10,000.00
77613 12/22/2023 006368 CHANDRA HOSPITALITY LLC 11/2023 020332 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVE 12,506.14 Total: 12,506.14
77614 12/22/2023 003841 CIVICPLUS LLC 277823 020334 ONLINE CODE HOSTING 12/1/2023-11/3 1,150.00 Total : 1,150.00
77615 12/22/2023 002331 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE PE0000001392 020335 PUBLIC SAFETY ENTERPRISE COMMU 92,503.27 PE0000001393 020335 PUBLIC SAFETY ENTERPRISE COMMU 97,711.88 Total: 190,215.15
77616 12/22/2023 005603 CR&R INCORPORATED 000140870 019368 DISPOSAL SERVICES/CC 12/1-12/31/20: 290.77 Total : 290.77
77617 12/22/2023 005603 CR&R INCORPORATED 000140041 020245 DISPOSAL SERVICES/PW YARD 10/1-10 1,116.43 Total: 1,116.43
77618 12/22/2023 000037 CULLIGAN SOFT WATER SERVICE 0644194 020246 PORTABLE EXCHANGE RENTALWWTF 95.25 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 77618 12/22/2023 000037 000037 CULLIGAN SOFT WATER SERVICE (Continued) Total: 95.25 77619 12/22/2023 000156 CYLE JOHNSON ELECTRIC INC 55596 019565 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES 946.49 019565
55689 020247 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 120.00
55718 020190 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES 50.56
Total : 1,117.05
77620 12/22/2023 000084 D & LAUTO PARTS INC 8681-205542 020248 PARTS/SUPPLIES « 233.78 8681-206147 020249 PARTS/SUPPLIES 116.12
8681-206653 020250 PARTS/SUPPLIES 142.49
Total: 492.39
77621 12/22/2023 007951 DSLRPROS AHYTX-WMD3 020169 DRONES/DRONE SUPPLIES 20,482.50 020169
Total : 20,482.50
77622 12/22/2023 003447 EXTREME AUTO BODY & CUSTOMS 8695 020225 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 992.20 Total: 992.20
77623 12/22/2023 003135 FINN FORD 6091677 020291 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 576.90 Total: 576.90
77624 12/22/2023 002791 FISHER WIRELESS SERVICES INC 234791 020339 EQUIPMENT 95.70 234794 020339 EQUIPMENT 103.36
Total: 199.06
77625 12/22/2023 008224 GRUBBS, TONIA B2308-013 020324 PERMIT REFUND 308.75 Total: 308.75
77626 12/22/2023 008067 JOEA. GONSALVES & SON 161243 020286 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 1/2024 4,160.00 Total : 4,160.00
77627 12/22/2023 002150 JONES MAYER 119578 020345 LEGAL SERVICES 11/2023 15,919.07 Total : 15,919.07
77628 12/22/2023 008223 KIMLEY-HORN & ASSOCIATES INC 26223951 020252 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES THROUGH 168,979.60 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 77628 12/22/2023 008223 008223 KIMLEY-HORN & ASSOCIATES INC (Continued) Total: 168,979.60 77629 12/22/2023 004771 LANDMARK LP1223-20 020346 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 10/12-11/17 9,950.00 LP1223-21 020346 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 10/12-11/17 8,250.00 Total : 18,200.00
77630 12/22/2023 008237 LOPEZ, VANESSA 121623 COMMUNITY CENTER DEPOSIT REFUN 150.00 Total: 150.00
77631 12/22/2023 007904 MCCORMICK, KEVIN 010824 019805 TRAVEL - PER DIEM 1/8-1/11/2024 155.00 Total : 155.00
77632 12/22/2023 000201 PALO VERDE VALLEY TIMES INC 072023 020347 PUBLICATIONS 8/1-8/30/2023 943.75 092023 020347 PUBLICATIONS 9/1-9/30/2023 420.00
102023 020347 PUBLICATIONS 10/1-10/31/2023 325.00
122023 020347 PUBLICATIONS 11/1-11/30/2023 1,868.76
Total: 3,557.51
77633 12/22/2023 000039 PETTY CASH 112923 020348 QUALITY OF LIFE OUTREACH PROGRA 676.44 Total: 676.44
77634 12/22/2023 000216 RAMSEY TOWING 18480 020105 TOW SERVICES 320.00 Total: 320.00
77635 12/22/2023 000241 SMART & FINAL IRIS CORP 087888 020278 SUPPLIES 58.43 394266 020281 SUPPLIES [CREDIT RETURN] -176.26
425655 020280 SUPPLIES 112.21
845100 020276 SUPPLIES 181.55
951411 020277 SUPPLIES 454.65
Total: 630.58
77636 12/22/2023 006110 SOUTHWEST NETWORKS, INC 23-10075 020370 IT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 10/1-10/3- 285.00 23-11023SC 020370 OFFICE 365 BUSINESS STANDARD 75.00
23-11044SC 020370 MICROSOFT AZURE AD PREMIUM 48.00
23-11068 020370 IT MAINTENANCE SERVICES 11/1-11/3C 332.50 Total : 740.50
77637 12/22/2023 002361 SOUTHWEST RUBBER & SUP CO INC 518213-001 019938 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,031.91 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount 77637 12/22/2023 002361 002361 SOUTHWEST RUBBER & SUP CO INC (Continued) Total : 1,031.91 77638 12/22/2023 002500 SYNECO SYSTEMS INC 12704 020373 ODOR SCRUBBER LEASE/MAINTENAN 249,530.74 Total: 249,530.74
77639 12/22/2023 007676 T. RAMOS AND ASSOCIATES 1593 020282 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 8,800.00 Total : 8,800.00
77640 12/22/2023 004721 TEAMTALK NETWORK 083116 020371 RADIO COMMUNICATIONS/BFD 2/2024 697.68 Total : 697.68
77641 12/22/2023 000110 TYLER TECHNOLOGIES INC 045-445548 020372 EDEN SYSTEM MAINT/SUPPORT 1/1-12 54,228.51 Total : 54,228.51
77642 12/22/2023 000991 USA BLUEBOOK INVO0114684 020309 PARTS/SUPPLIES 702.50 INVO0154273 020310 PARTS/SUPPLIES 456.70
INVO0163391 020312 PARTS/SUPPLIES 46.71
INVO0165971 020313 PARTS/SUPPLIES 274.10
INV00166102 020315 PARTS/SUPPLIES 320.76
INV00166103 020314 PARTS/SUPPLIES 575.79
INV00166625 020316 PARTS/SUPPLIES 432.45
INV00202984 020317 PARTS/SUPPLIES 204.23
INV00203078 020318 PARTS/SUPPLIES 1,074.70
INV00206991 020321 PARTS/SUPPLIES 365.26
INV00207003 020320 PARTS/SUPPLIES 206.08
INV00207051 020319 PARTS/SUPPLIES 427.57
INVO0207170 PARTS/SUPPLIES 57.58
020322
Total: 5,144.43
77643 12/22/2023 008225 VAN SLYKE, LISA B2302-005 020325 PERMIT REFUND 2,790.55 Total: 2,790.55
77644 12/22/2023 000278 WEEKS PRINTING 29967 020262 PRINTING/CUSTOM SERVICES 1,970.55 29972 020146 PRINTING/CUSTOM SERVICES 575.56
29979 020323 PRINTING/CUSTOM SERVICES 328.64
Total: 2,874.75
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 1:39:10PM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 38 Vouchers for bank code: union Bank total : 781,177.95 75 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers : 902,885.97

CLAIMS VOUCHER APPROVAL
I hereby certify that warrants numbered 10442-10478 and 77607-77644 in the amount of $902,885.97 have been
reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9, 2024
Chis Elus

CHRISTA ELMS

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 2:03:26PM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 77645 12/22/2023 008233 BAIRES CENTENO, MARTIR JONNY Ref000216915 UB Refund Cst #026713 109.84 Total : 109.84
77646 12/22/2023 008234 BARNETT, CELESTE Ref000216916 UB Refund Cst #026925 89.31 Total : 89.31
77647 12/22/2023 007712 DALE, GARTH Ref000216910 UB Refund Cst #025885 120.48 Total : 120.48
77648 12/22/2023 008229 DELEON BRANDON, MARIA Ref000216909 UB Refund Cst #025695 96.33 Total: 96.33
77649 12/22/2023 008231 GEFFRARD, JOHNSON Ref000216913 UB Refund Cst #026374 123.13 Total: 123.13
77650 12/22/2023 008232 LINARES, KATHY Ref000216914 UB Refund Cst #026699 4.84 Total : 4.84
77651 12/22/2023 008227 MARTINEZ, EDITH Ref000216907 UB Refund Cst #019159 52.66 Total: 52.66
77652 12/22/2023 008228 MARTINEZ, OLIVIA Ref000216908 UB Refund Cst #025690 15.41 Total: 15.41
77653 12/22/2023 008230 PALOMINO, ABRAHAM Ref000216912 UB Refund Cst #026286 118.05 Total: 118.05
77654 12/22/2023 008226 PATEL, SHANKER Ref000216906 UB Refund Cst #017753 86.92 Total: 86.92
77655 12/22/2023 008235 PEREZ, MARISSA Ref000216917 UB Refund Cst #026929 61.64 Total: 61.64
77656 12/22/2023 005632 ROBINS, KRISTINA Ref000216911 UB Refund Cst #026084 252.74 Total: 252.74
12 Vouchers for bank code : union Bank total : 1,131.35 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
12/22/2023 2:03:26PM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount 12 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers: 1,131.35

CLAIMS VOUCHER APPROVAL
I hereby certify that the Utility Billing Refund warrants numbered 77645-77656 in the amount of $1,131.35 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that the Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9, 2024.

Chist Elus
Christa Elms
Director of Finance
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
01/05/2024 8:49:00AM City of Blythe
Bank code : ap-dir
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account
Amount
10479 12/22/2023 004501 US BANK CORP NOV 2023 020375 CREDIT CARD CHARGES 11/2023 8,491.38 Total : 8,491.38
10480 12/27/2023 005176 SPARKLETTS 9470757 020415 BULK DRINKING WATER/PW 43.43 Total: 43.43
10481 12/27/2023 005176 SPARKLETTS 15381711 020416 BULK DRINKING WATER/WTP 169.02 15381711 020416 BULK DRINKING WATERNWTP 80.99
020416
15381711 020416 BULK DRINKING WATERWWTP 10.00
020416
Total : 260.01
10482 1/3/2024 005923 CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' 000017391306 HEALTH PREMIUMS - ELECTED 1/2 3,445.46 Total: 3,445.46
10483 1/3/2024 005923 CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' 000017391305 HEALTH PREMIUMS - ACTIVE/RETII 106,889.54 Total : 106,889.54
10484 1/3/2024 000323 STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION 023-300030 020417 USE TAX 11/2023 11.08 Total: 11.08
10485 1/3/2024 006924 SUN LIFE FINANCIAL 923380-0002 PREMIUM/FEES 1/2024 6,488.37
Total : 6,488.37
10486 1/4/2024 002030 STERICYCLE INC 8005279336 020265 STERI-SAFE OSHA COMPLIANCE 1 1,950.93 Total : 1,950.93
10487 1/5/2024 000241 SMART & FINAL IRIS CORP 002301 020399 SUPPLIES 211.05 009002 020279 SUPPLIES 149.88
508933 020353 SUPPLIES 461.34
Total : 822.27
9 Vouchers for bank code: ap-dir Bank total : 128,402.47 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
01/05/2024 8:49:00AM City of Blythe
Bank code: union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account Amount 77657 1/9/2024 000525 BARBARA SINATRA 2023-1402 020263 TECHNICAL SERVICES 462.00 Total : 462.00
77658 1/9/2024 000385 BIO-TOX LABORATORIES 45090 020377 LAB SERVICES 9/2023 (PD) 325.00 45202 020378 LAB SERVICES 10/2023 (CHP) 950.00
45223 020376 LAB SERVICES 11/2023 (PD) 96.00
45224 020376 LAB SERVICES 11/2023 (PD) 96.00
45334 020376 LAB SERVICES 12/2023 (CHP) 371.00
Total : 1,838.00
77659 1/9/2024 000048 BURTRONICS BUSINESS SYSTEMS AR109852 020379 CONTRACT CN 10648-01 9/27-12/26. 669.81 AR110065 020408 693.00
CONTRACT CN10653-0122702a4 :
1,362.81
77660 1/9/2024 000051 C B PLUMBING 099041 020380 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 304.05 Total : 304.05
77661 1/9/2024 000667 CITY OF BLYTHE:WATER UTILITIES 2907423 020410 COLLECTION ACCOUNTS 106.25 Total: 106.25
77662 1/9/2024 000667 CITY OF BLYTHE: WATER UTILITIES DEC 2023 020409 UTILITY SERVICES/CITY FACILITIE! 4,025.46 NOV 2023 020409 UTILITY SERVICESICITY FACILITIE: 4,157.27 8,182.73
77663 1/9/2024 007968 CITY OF CATHEDRAL CITY 274 019963 EAST PACT COMPLIANCE TEAM FY 2,200.00 Total : 2,200.00
77664 1/9/2024 003841 CIVICPLUS LLC 283378 017254 WEBSITE HOSTING & SUPPORT 2,667.67 Total : 2,667.67
77665 1/9/2024 000437 CO OF RIV AUDITOR-CONTROLLER NOV 2023 020411 PARKING CITATIONS 11/2023 39.00 Total : 39.00
77666 1/9/2024 001757 DATA TICKET INC 159230 020412 PARKING CITATION PROCESSING • 181.05 159731 020412 ADMIN CITATION PROCESSING 11/: 335.00
Total : 516.05
77667 1/9/2024 002173 DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE 703899 020381 BLOOD ALCOHOL ANALYSIS 11/202 140.00 Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
01/05/2024 8:49:00AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO# Description/Account
Amount
77667 1/9/2024 002173 002173 DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE (Continued) Total : 140.00 77668 1/9/2024 000140 HINDERLITER DE LLAMAS & ASSOC SIN034235 020413 CONTRACT SERVICES - SALES TA› 1,443.67 SIN034338 020413 CONTRACT SERVICES - TRANSAC 600.00
Total : 2,043.67
77669 1/9/2024 000150 INLAND BUILDERS SUPPLY INC B75311 020226 PARTS/SUPPLIES 41.96 U74662 020226 PARTS/SUPPLIES 171.98
Total : 213.94
77670 1/9/2024 000039 PETTY CASH 121523 020414 QUALITY OF LIFE OUTREACH PRO 759.14 Total : 759.14
77671 1/9/2024 000216 RAMSEY TOWING 18550 020264 AVA TOW SERVICES 11/2023 200.00
Total : 200.00
77672 1/9/2024 000224 RIVERSIDE COUNTY 202311000385 020382 LANDFILL FEES 11/2023 20.00 Total: 20.00
77673 1/9/2024 008036 STU RYAN GUN/LOCK REPAIR 121123 020383 REPAIR/MAINTENANCE SERVICES 432.50 Total : 432.50
77674 1/9/2024 008069 TRIPEPI SMITH & ASSOCIATES INC 11392 020354 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES 6,515.00
Total : 6,515.00
77675 1/9/2024 007841 TRIPLE H PARTS SUPPLY, INC 514438 020001 PARTS/SUPPLIES 86.18 Total: 86.18
77676 1/9/2024 005075 VALLEY VET 270245 020384 ANIMAL CONTROL SUPPLIES 1,069.86
Total : 1,069.86
77677 1/9/2024 000278 WEEKS PRINTING 29977 020385 PRINTING/CUSTOM SERVICES 192.49
Total : 192.49
21 Vouchers for bank code: union Bank total :
29,351.34
30 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers : 157,753.81
Page:
vchlist Voucher List Page:
01/05/2024 8:49:00AM City of Blythe
Bank code : union
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount

CLAIMS VOUCHER APPROVAL
I hereby certify that warrants numbered 10479-10487 and 77657-77677 in the amount of $157,753.81 have been
reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9, 2024
Chist Elus

CHRISTA ELMS

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Page:

CITY OF BLYTHE

PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 12/08/2023 to 12/08/2023
Payday 12/08/2023
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 54122 to 54130, and direct deposits warrants numbered 57539 to 57556 in the amount of $154,687.72 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9th, 2024.

Chiest Eles
Director of Finance
-18-

CITY OF BLYTHE

PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 12/12/2023 to 12/12/2023
Payday 12/12/2023
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 54131 to 54132 in the amount of $443.78 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9th, 2024.

Chistillus
Director of Finance
-19-

CITY OF BLYTHE

PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 11/24/2023 to 12/07/2023
Payday 12/15/2023
I hereby si to rol warrants num or 28,1940 Save end devict deposis yarant by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9th, 2024.

Chest Elus
Director of Finance
-20-

CITY OF BLYTHE

PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 12/08/2023 to 12/21/2023
Payday 12/29/2023
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 54153 to 54168, and direct deposits warrants numbered 57626 to 57693 in the amount of $261,173.72 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9'h, 2024.

Chust Elus
Director of Finance
-21-

CITY OF BLYTHE

PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 12/22/2023 to 12/27/2023
Payday 12/27/2023
I hereby cerit otat havent mumbered or p, and direct depies or of in ance ered 57694 certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9th, 2024.

Chish Ever
Director of Finance
-22-

CITY OF BLYTHE

PAYROLL LISTING
Pay period 12/01/2023 to 12/31/2023
Payday 01/05/2024
I hereby certify that payroll warrants numbered 54170 to 54184, and direct deposits warrants numbered 57695 to 57789 in the amount of $74,377.14 have been reviewed for payment by the Director of Finance. I further certify that Councilmembers of the City of Blythe, CA approved said warrants at the meeting of January 9t, 2024.

Christ Elus
Director of Finance
Minutes of the Blythe City Council Special Meeting
December 7, 2023
The December 7, 2023 Special Meeting of the Blythe City Council was called to order at 4:00pm in the Council Chambers by Mayor DeConinck. Also in attendance were Vice Mayor Rodriguez and Council Members Reynolds and Halby. Councilman Burton was absent. Staff in attendance included: Interim City Manager and City Clerk Crecelius, City Treasurer and Finance Director Elms, Police Chief Dale, Fire Chief Hasler, Chief Building Official Brown and Public Works Director McLaughlin. City Attorney Roberto participated via Zoom.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor DeConinck.

SPECIAL MEETING ITEMS:

1. Posting of the Agenda.

The summary of agenda items were posted on the bulletin boards on the outside of the public entrance to the Council Chamber and near the inside entrance of the Council Chamber on Monday, December 4, 2023.

No public comment. Councilman Reynolds moved approval of the posting of the Agenda. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

2. Presentation by Professor John M. Eason and Students with Brown University regarding the Socio-economic Impacts of the Potential Closure of Chuckawalla Valley State Prison. Professor Eason introduced himself and the effort of 15 weeks of a course he was teaching at Brown University which resulted in this presentation. The research is based Professor Eason's book "Big House on the Prairie: Rise of the Rural Ghetto Prison and Proliferation published in 2017. Although most of the modeling comes from this book, we stripped it down to be policy prescriptive and something the City can build on. We thought a lot about why rural communities want prisons, what prisons mean to them and thinking about ways to provide alternatives to rural communities to increase opportunities in these spaces. We used community engaged methods, speaking with community members, and will be reporting back to you what we heard from people in Blythe. Professor Eason's research students presented their findings, with the goal of coming up with alternative solutions to deal with the prison closure. We wanted to think through options for economic development as well as repurposing options. Items under Economic Development included investing in natural resources, public safety and health investment as well as alternative energy investments. In terms of repurposing, we thought about repurposing the prison into a warehouse, such as amazon, a renewable energy facility or data center. We contacted businesses and community members who would be impacted by the closure. In total, 35 community members were contacted with 9 responding. Non-response was a factor that should be noted. The nine that responded provided very rich data from their interviews. Impacts to a prison closure include all indicators of poverty increasing after a prison closes. Participation in programs such as social security and Medicaid increasing by 10% with unemployment increasing by a third. There are some significant impacts that come with prison closures. We discussed -24-
with our interviewees Blythe's relationship with their prisons and what they mean to the community. The prisons are very established in the community and bring people to work in Blythe. It has made Blythe an attractive location for jobs. The prisons have also attracted family members of prisoners to move to Blythe. Interviewèes acknowledged that prison jobs are the highest paid in the community. The prisons lead to more housing development and count toward the population which has helped with grant funding. The hospital is in a tough situation as the prisons are largely keeping the hospital afloat. The economy was previously largely agricultural but due to loss of water and overall changes in the economy, it's no longer realistic to go back to that after the prison closes. There was a sentiment that there were more businesses and jobs before the prisons came. So although there are higher paying jobs now, there was a wider array of jobs and opportunities before the prisons came. This connects to an unfulfilled promise that the prisons were supposed to grow the town. The first of three things we came up with is responsible de-carceration. Everyone expressed a great lack of open communication related to the prison closure. The second main theme was the economic concerns about the prison closure in Blythe. There are impacts on City revenues, education, and health care. The City is not in a great financial position, so the closure is worrisome. The third is similar to the second point, but the prison jobs have helped sustain the economy and the loss of jobs will have a detrimental impact on Blythe. Once the prisons came, the economy evolved to work around the prisons. Policy recommendations will focus on how Blythe can navigate the potential prison closure while uplifting the community and generating economic revenue. We looked at investing in public safety and public health, natural resources and tourism, and investing in renewable energy and using the airport for freight. Investing in the parks and advertising the beauty of Blythe could bring in more tourism and bring in jobs. Investing in improving conditions for doctors and other healthcare professionals could attract new employees and lead to the expansion of these facilities. Renewable energy is something we looked into. It could be sold for a profit by the City while decreasing energy costs and reducing carbon emissions. The last strategy was brought up during our interviews and includes using the airport for freight, attracting new companies to utilize that resource. An additional strategy was opening a warehouse in Blythe to offset the job loss from the prison closure. We then looked at ways to repurpose the prison if it closed. We came up with three ideas: using the land and facility as a warehouse, for renewable energy development or as a data center. These ideas came from existing examples from what communities have done with prisons.

Mayor DeConinck would like to know how much the prison leaving will cost the economy. Professor stated to dig into this will require more research and resources. We hope to continue to work with you to provide this; but assume the impact will be significant. I am trying to bring resources to answer more detailed questions such as this.

We have been working with GoBiz and it's very regional, and they have not focused on Blythe.

Vice Mayor Rodriguez stated what he was hoping for was a more persuasive report that we could use going forward when we address our elected officials in Sacramento. Then it wouldn't be just us, the City against the state, but a third party representative showing what this is going to do for our community.
-25-
Professor Eason stated there was no plan when they opened prisons, and they don't have a plan for closing them. You are right to voice your opinion and concerns. Folks that want to close prisons without any plan at all or recourse for communities who have become dependent on them is morally bankrupt. I am trying to make sure that rural communities are heard and that they can be prioritized for economic development. I am Mayor DeConinck asked if Ironwood, Chuckawalla's sister prison was factored into this research.

Professor Eason stated this speaks to the broader issue of not having a well thought out plan and it being irresponsibly closed.

Mayor DeConinck stated the key component is Chuckawalla is the second largest employer behind Ironwood.

Councilman Reynolds thanked Professor Eason and his students. I was looking for more but understand its preliminary. We look forward to more research and information to help convince our government to keep our prison open.

Councilman Halby stated he believes the logistics of moving inmates from Chuckawalla around the State for medical and court services may be a reason this prison was selected.

I would like more transparency from the State, but maybe they have other plans we aren't aware of yet.

Interim City Manager Crecelius stated some of the information you are looking for wasn't presented because it wasn't part of the scope of this study. Their research looked at what the prison means to the community, how the community has changed since its opened and what happens when it closes. If it does close, how can the city move forward? What business or industries will we need to offset the loss from the closure.

They are not part of Save Chuck, however there is a parallel here to use their research to go to the Governor in our Save Chuck efforts. We can present the findings from this research to the Governor and say this is how Blythe will be impacted, how is the State going to help the City offset those impacts?
Councilman Halby stated this is a State facility. I think they already have plans for it. I don't think they are going to leave it dormant. They are great ideas, but I don't think we will ever have a say in how that facility will be repurposed.

Mayor DeConinck stated we are still working on it. I don't understand the reasoning. We showed the State the CRC in Norco, which is more costly to operate than CVSP and whose community wants it closed is a better option.

Professor Eason stated sometimes dollars just don't make sense. This has nothing to do with the actual cause, but politics. Once you get into the politics of it, the economic logic goes out the window.
-26-
No public comment.

ADJOURN: The City Council meeting was adjourned at 5:05pm.

Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
-27-
Minutes of the Blythe City Council Meeting
December 12, 2023
The December 12, 2023, meeting of the Blythe City Council was called to order at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers by Mayor DeConinck. Also in attendance were Vice Mayor Rodriguez and Council Members Reynolds and Halby. Councilman Burton was excused from the meeting.

Staff in attendance included: Interim City Manager and City Clerk Crecelius, City Attorney Roberto, Finance Director and City Treasurer Elms, Chief Building Official Brown, Police Chief Dale, Public Works Director McLaughlin and Fire Chief Hasler.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor DeConinck.

The Invocation was led by Vice Mayor Rodriguez.

REPORT FROM CLOSED SESSION:

City Attorney Roberto stated there was no reportable action.

PRESENTATION:

Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Audited Financial Statements. Finance Director Elms stated the 2023 audit has concluded with financial statements prepared. City Management and the Finance Committee met with the audit team earlier today for an in-depth review of the 2023 financials.

Rich Teaman and Rick Gallo with Teaman, Ramirez and Smith will provide a brief overview of the audit report and answer any questions. After their presentation, it is recommended the City Council receive and file the City's audited financial statements and related documents for 2023.

Rich Teaman of Teaman, Ramirez and Smith stated we have concluded our annual audit of your financial statements. We did meet with the Finance Committee earlier and spent time going into the details. Tonight, I will provide a brief overview. We would like to express our appreciation of your staff in helping us conclude this in a timely manner. As was mentioned, the purpose of this audit is to present financial statements and for us to discuss our opinion regarding those statements. Í am happy to report our opinion this year is an unmodified opinion which is the best you can get. The opinion itself includes an emphasis of matter related to the on-going going concern. This has been with you since 2008 and will probably continue for some time. I would like to point out that you have made significant progress regarding that. In the financial statements there is a section called MDNA which is management's discussion and analysis. This is management's interpretation of what happened during the year. If you want to know what's going on, that's the section to go to. Page 34 talks about the liabilities and I would like to identify two significant ones, for pretty much every government agency related to the net pension obligations and OPEB. Regardless of what you are doing, these are often impacted by factors outside of your control such as interest rates. Bear that in mind when you see large fluctuations when there is just 1 percentage point on the interest rate. This year the General Fund improved its situation dramatically. There was a $2.6 million improvement. There are a few other funds such as the enterprise funds that are in need of future revenue expansion and improvement; but that will take some time. Footnote 24 addresses the going concern issue. In addition to the financial statements there are several other documents presented tonight, one of which is the financial statements for the PFA or Public Finance Authority. This also received an unmodified -28-
opinion. The financial statements of the PFA roll up into the City's financial statements. In addition to the financial statements, we have a report, the internal control and financial compliance report, in that we identify any internal control or financial compliance issues. I am happy to report there are no findings or issues. We also have an agreed upon procedure report related to the appropriation limit. We test that calculation and are happy to report that there were no issues or findings with that calculation. Finally, there is a corresponding letter addressed to the governing body related to the conduct of the audit, if we had issues or disagreements with management during the audit. As you go through that letter you will find that we had no such problems. There are two attachments included showing a more in-depth history and changes in fund balance in the General Fund going back to 2008. As you look at the General fund you can see significant progress has been made over the years, specifically over the last 3-4 years. You are to be commended for that. You still have work to do but have made significant progress.

Councilman Halby stated Rich and Rick always do a very thorough job and appreciate you coming out and doing that for us.

No public comment. The item was received and filed.

CONSENT CALENDAR: Items on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be enacted with one motion of the Council. If any item requires individual consideration, it will be removed from the consent calendar and acted upon separately.

2. Posting of the Agenda.

The summary of agenda items were posted on the bulletin boards on the outside of the public entrance to the Council Chamber and near the inside entrance of the Council Chamber on Friday, December 8, 2023.

Approval of the Warrant Register.

Recommendation: Approve 12/12/23, warrants numbered 10408 through 10433 and 77487 through 77553 in the amount of $487,598.63; 12/12/23, Utility Billing Refund warrants numbered 77554 through 77569 in the amount of $966.07 and 12/12/23, warrants numbered 10434 through 10441 and 77570 through 77606 in the amount of $703,106.47.

4. Approval of the Payroll Register.

Recommendation: Approve 12/12/23, warrants numbered 54045 through 54065 and Direct

5. Vlinutes of the November 14, 2023. City Council Meeting Recommendation: Approve the Minutes of the November 14, 2023, Meeting

6. City of Blythe Permits Issued for the Month of November 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file this monthly report.

7. City of Blythe Fire Department Monthly Activity Report for November 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.

8. City of Blythe Police Department Monthly Activity Report for November 2023. - 29-
Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.

Quality of Life Program Activity Report for November 2023.

Recommendation: Receive and file the monthly report.

10. Annual Report for Community Facilities District No. 2004-1.

Recommendation: Receive and file the Annual Report for CFD No. 2004-1 Special Tax Bonds, Series 2005.

11. Extension of the Temporary Use Permit issued to the California Department of Transportation.

Recommendation: Authorize a twelve-month extension to TUP 2210-001 issued to CalTrans for a testing lab located behind 134 E. Hobsonway for the I-10 Pavement Rehabilitation Project.

12. Fiscal Year 2024 Patrol Vehicle Purchase.

Recommendation: Establish a budget in an amount not to exceed $376,573; authorize the issuance of purchase orders) for five (5) vehicles in the amount of $282,939.05 to Elk Grove Auto; authorize the issuance of purchase order(s) in an amount not to exceed $78,733.69 to novative Emergency Equipment to upfit the vehicles, authorize the issuance of a purchas rder(s) to Signs Unlimited in an amount not to exceed $4,900 for decals and authorize the Cit Manager to issue additional and/or make minor amendments to purchasing contracts in an amount not to exceed $10,000 for any costs that may arise from equipping and taking delivery of the vehicles.

13. Agreement with R&L Watkins, Inc, for Abatement Services at 226 & 228 S. Main Street.

Recommendation: Authorize the Interim City Manager to enter into Agreement No. 2023-061 A with R&L Watkins, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $62,800, authorize 10% for project contingencies, establish a project budget not to exceed $69,080 and authorize the Interim City Manager to take related actions necessary to abate this site.

14. Continued Participation in the Post-Release Accountability and Compliance Team.

Recommendation: Authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the Memorandum of Understanding for continued participation in the Post-Release Accountability and Compliance Team (PACT), and any future amendments to the MOU once reviewed and approved by the City Attorney.

Public Comment. Leslie Jessop-Watkins of 1250 E. Hobsonway applauded the City for the continued work and dedication toward the cleanup of the city. It's our honor to assist the City in those matters. The Police Department is always on top of trying to help us and assisted us earlier today on a cleanup at the railway with some homeless. The collaborative effort is remarkable and as a citizen I appreciate it.

Councilman Reynolds moved approval of the Consent Calendar. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

PUBLIC HEARING:

Ordinance No. 923-23, Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code. Interim City Manager Crecelius stated in October, the Council, acting as the Planning Agency, conducted a Public Hearing regarding the proposed Sign Ordinance. At the November Meeting, a Public Hearing was conducted to introduce Ordinance No. 923-23, which was the first of two required public hearings to adopt the Ordinance. During the meeting, staff received feedback during public comment regarding the proposed sign ordinance. Based upon the feedback received, the proposed Ordinance was revised further to provide that signs are owned, installed or controlled by the City are exempt, removed a requirement to record a covenant in connection a mural installation, increased the maximum -30-
mural height from 20 to 25 feet above grade, removed the prohibition against murals containing artistic depictions of the business, goods, or services being provided, removed the requirement that digitally printed murals require fire department approval, revised lighting standards for murals and clarified that an application for a sign permit shall be approved if the sign is consistent with the requirements of Chapter 17.26. It should be noted that the process for mural review and approval will be prepared by the City Manager, and a mural sign permit fee will need to be established by Resolution of the City Council. Staff believes the Ordinance as presented is representative of the goals of the City. Therefore, staff recommends Council introduce Ordinance No. 923-23. If introduced this evening, the Ordinance will be brought to Council in January for adoption. The ordinance will go into effect 30 days after its adoption.

Public comment. Cyle George of 291 N. First Street asked about murals containing commercial messages.

Councilman Reynolds moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

ORDINANCE NO. 923-23. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING CHAPTER 17.26 (SIGNS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL

CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION).

Ordinance No. 927-23 Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.78 (Environmental Evaluation) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code. Interim City Manager Crecelius stated Chapter 17.78 of Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code has section 17.78.010 that states the Planning Director shall make an environmental assessment of all matters requiring action by Council under this title. This section was last amended in 1987. However, the California Environmental Resource Code states the California Environmental Quality Act does not apply to projects in which a public agency rejects or disapproves. It provides that it's intended to allow for an initial screening of projects on the merits for quick disapproval prior to the initiation of CEQA. By requiring the Planning Director to make an environmental assessment on all matters under this section, it imposes a greater obligation on both city staff and the applicant. City staff is then obliged to comply with requirements that exceed State requirements under the resources code and takes away resources and staff time that could be allocated to other city projects and needs. The proposed ordinance, if adopted, would repeal Chapter 17.78 in its entirety. If repealed, staff would continue to comply with State requirements related to the environmental assessment of projects. Therefore, it is recommended that Council, acting as the City's Planning Agency, conduct a Public Hearing regarding Ordinance No. 927-23.

No public comment. Councilman Reynolds moved approval of Staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

CONTINUED BUSINESS:

Save Chuck. Interim City Manager Crecelius provided updates on Save Chuck related to the presentation made by the students at Brown University on December 7, 2023, the upcoming Kosmot presentation on the Resiliency Study commissioned by Riverside County and a support letter penned by Assemblyman Garcia.
-31-
Councilman Halby stated we need to discuss strategy because they are closing. We need to shift the narrative and see what we can do in terms of negotiation some money for the City and what they are going to do with the facility.

No public comment. The item was received and filed.

Ordinance Prohibiting the Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converters. Interim City Manager Crecelius stated to address a rise in catalytic converter thefts, the County of Riverside Board of Supervisors adopted an Ordinance making it illegal to possess a catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle unless the person has valid proof of ownership. The County shared this Ordinance with its cities. At the October council meeting, staff discussed adopting a similar ordinance for the City, as the County's ordinance is only enforceable in the unincorporated areas of the County. Council directed the City Attorney to prepare an Ordinance for Council review.

Ordinance No. 924-23 largely mirrors the County's Ordinance and contains penalty provisions for both criminal and/or administrative penalties including administrative fines of $1,000 for first violation, $2,000 for the second violation and $5,000 for each subsequent violation. Although thefts of catalytic converters have not been prevalent in Blythe, staff believes adopting an ordinance prohibiting the unlawful possession of catalytic converters could help deter future thefts and be a tool for law enforcement should prosecution of these thefts be necessary later.

Therefore, it is recommended that Council introduce Ordinance No. 824-23.

No public comment. Councilman Reynolds moved approval of staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

ORDINANCE NO. 924-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 9.94 (UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER) TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC

PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS

EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEOA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION).

NEW BUSINESS:

Ordinance Adding Section 2.40.030 relating to Level I Reserve Police Officers.

Police Chief Dale stated the Blythe Polie Department Reserve Unit was established to supplement and assist regular officers in their duties. Reserve Officers provide professional law enforcement services that augment regular staffing levels. The Police Department is expanding the Reserve program to include officers that have special skills such as boat patrol, criminal investigation, instructors, and tactical expertise. This program has also served as a recruitment tool. There are three levels of Reserve Officer Powers. Level 3 is the lowest going up to Level 1.

The Level 1 designation gives that Officer full time peace officer powers. They have the ability to be a single man unit in patrol and can use our firearms. There are laws that restrict what officers, reserves and citizens can carry in off duty situations. This Ordinance would allow them to be considered full time Police Officers so they would be exempt from these new laws. The Ordinance is required by code to include a Council vote to designate Level I Reserve Police Officers. Most Cities have this, dating back to the 1980's. However, the City's policy was restrictive in that it required us to issue them a CCW permit, but that did not exempt them from the long guns we use on patrol.
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No public comment. Councilman Reynolds moved approval of Staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Vice Mayor Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

ORDINANCE NO. 928-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW SECTION 2.40.030 (RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS) TO CHAPTER 2.40 (RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OF TITLE 2 (ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL) OF THE

BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION).

Letter Requesting Expansion of Superior Courthouse Hours of Operation. Interim City Manager Crecelius stated during Public Comment at the December meeting there was a discussion about the Riverside Superior Court house in Blythe's hours of operation. The Courthouse is currently open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Roughly 10 years ago the court's hours and staff were reduced for budget reasons. As court services in Riverside County have begun to expand, is it time to request the Blythe Court house resume a five day a week operation? Staff was directed to bring this item back to Council for direction and discussion.

No public comment. Councilman Reynolds directed staff to issue a letter. The motion was second by Councilman Halby with a unanimous aye vote.

ORAL REPORTS:

Police Chief Dale reported Forensic Technician Valerie Hudson has been elected as Property Officer of the Year from the California Association for Property and Evidence, Inland Region.

Valerie is the longest serving member of the Blythe Police Department and has served as a past President of this organization. Forensic Technician Hudson is now up for the State award. We are very proud of Valerie and what she has done.

Councilman Reynolds commended everyone who worked on the Christmas Parade and WinterFest.

Mayor DeConinck echoed those sentiments along with recognizing the Police, Fire, Boarder Patrol and Public Works who assisted with traffic control. The next morning the Pink Trash Bags were out collecting trash. They did a good job. Work is being done on I10 and the roadway has changed. Please be careful when driving.

PUBLIC COMMENT:

Alejandra with GRID Alternatives provided an overview of their non-profit work it the community installing no cost solar systems for qualified homeowners. There are 300 homes in the City that fall within our funded area. We request partnership with the City to serve these homes.

Victoria with GRID Alternatives stated they are here for a formal request for a letter of recommendation we can mail to qualified properties. We would like to use the City's logo. W 1ow have additional funds to work with apartments in addition to single family homes ADJOURN: The City Council meeting was adjourned at 7:05pm. -33-
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
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12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 1
3:57:02PM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2311-047 ELEC 942 EAST AVENUE B KELSEY CAMILLE GONZALEZ 49,307.00 788.41 788.41 12/29/2023 SOLAR 851052001 LGCY INSTALLATION SERVICE
12/78/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF SOLAR & UPDATE
B2311-024 ELEC 3880 SANDY POINT DRIVE KEITH & TINA WALNOHA 63,372.45 809.24 809.24 12/29/2023 SOLAR 833380023 LGCY INSTALLATION SERVICE
11/13/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2311-017 ELEC 1575 EAST CHANSLORWAY DANA & MARY ANN MAXFIELI 50,000.00 794.50 794.50 12/29/2023 SOLAR 857110015 STEVE GRIFFIN CONSTRUCTK
12/832023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2311-025 ELEC 310 WEST CHAPARRAL DRIVE DAVID & EDRALINA HIPKE 8,100.00 544.05 544.05 12/7/2023 SOLAR 842141011 LA SOLAR GROUP INC
11/30/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2311-034 ELEC 291 NORTH SECOND STREET PALO VERDE HEALTH CARE D 132,000.00 545.00 545.00 12/7/2023 845142020 JOHNSON CYLE ELECTRIC INC
117272023 ISSUED Permit Name Power for new Med Clinic
B2311-018 ELEC 713 WEST CHANSLORWAY LARRY NARANJO 25,000.00 564.25 564.25 12/8/2023 SOLAR 842132017 STEVE GRIFFIN CONSTRUCTIC
11/2/72023 FINALED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2311-049 ELEC 460 RIVER VALLEY AVENUE ISRAEL CLASS 29,750.00 734.87 734.87 12/21/2023 SOLAR 854121039 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
1223/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2308-008 ELEC 135 NORTH COMMERCIAL STE JOSEPH MICHAEL HALBY I 30,000.00 634.90 584.40 12/19/2023 SOLAR 845112025 SOLAR FLARE
3/1/2023 RCVD REVISIONS Permit Name Roof Mount PV
B2311-048 ELEC 471 MONTEZUMA STREET JULIANNE L HARRISON 11,264.00 672.46 672.46 12/21/2023 SOLAR 839062003 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
12/682023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2312-007 ELEC 340 BRISTLECONE AVENUE BRUCE K WILSON 17,300.00 697.25 697.25 12/21/2023 SOLAR 854121010 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
12/582023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2311-046 ELEC 1341 BRUCE COURT ROGELIO GARNICA 14,140.00 672.84 672.84 12/21/2023 SOLAR 836171013 BRIGHT PLANET SOLAR INC
12/632023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
B2311-022 ELEC 455 NORTH SECOND STREET TINAM BLACK 5,000.00 284.65 284.65 12/13/2023 SOLAR 845062016 SST CONSTRUCTION LLC
11/3/2023 ISSUED Permit Name remount Solar after Reroof B2310-043 ELEC 2409 FLORENCE BOULEVARD RICHARD MICHEAL VASQUEZ 67,452.43 821.02 821.02 12/1/2023 SOLAR 824191037 SOLCIUS LLC
19/36/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF SOLAR & UPGRADE
Total for: ELEC 502,685.88 8,563.44 8,512.94
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid PERM133
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12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 2
3:57:02PM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
B2312-013 ENCROACHMENT West Rice & S Spring + tothers CITY OF BLYTHE RIGHT OF WA 0.00 173.00 173.00 12/11/2023 FRONTIER CALIFORNIA INC
/11/20 ISSUED Permit Name #50153-5305672, Change of Contractor /11/20
B2312-014 ENCROACHMENT South Lovekin & Hobsonway ++ CITY OF BLYTHE RIGHT OF WA 0.00 173.00 173.00 12/11/2023 FRONTIER CALIFORNIA INC
12/A1/2023 ISSUED Permit Name #50153-5305669, Change of Contractor B2312-011 ENCROACHMENT 500 block East Hobsonway CITY OF BLYTHE RIGHT OF WE 0.00 656.00 656.00 12/28/2023 FRONTIER CALIFORNIA INC
1202/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WO#50153-5346891
B2312-009 ENCROACHMENT South Lovekin & West Rice Street CITY OF BLYTHE RIGHT OF WA 0.00 656.00 656.00 12/28/2023 FRONTIER CALIFORNIA INC
130212023 ISSUED Permit Name WO#50153-5346513
Total for: ENCROACHMENT 0.00 1,658.00 1,658.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2312-012 EXCAV 6th Ave & Hidden Beaches Dr CITY OF BLYTHE RIGHT OF WA 0.00 173.00 173.00 12/11/2023 FRONTIER CALIFORNIA INC
13/1/2023 ISSUED Permit Name #50153-5305072, Change of Contractor Total for: EXCAV 0.00 173.00 173.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2312-001 2048 RIVIERA DRIVE LISA L VANSLYKE 179,307.00 1,215.31 1,215.31 12/19/2023 REPLACE 869380018 OWNER
1224/2023 ISSUED Permit Name
Total for: MH 179,307.00 1,215.31 1,215.31
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fiees Paid B2312-008 OTHER 415 EAST BARNARD STREET SE CALIF CONE OF 7TH DAY AI 12,000.00 263.09 263.09 12/8/2023 845190003 OWNER
12/8/2023 ISSUED Permit Name Drywall Repair & Painting
B2312-022 OTHER 447 NORTH SOLANO AVENUE JUAN & MARIA SANDOVAL 5,500.00 174.72 174.72 12/15/2023 836061003 MS CONSTRUCTION
12/15/2023 ISSUED Permit Name REROOF (800 sqs) & PAINT
B2312-018 OTHER 900 WEST HOBSONWAY BLYOTEL 71,777.37 4,089.38 4,089.38 12/19/2023 836123003 AMERICAN POWER SOLUTION
12/3/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ELEC & PLUMB
B2312-017 OTHER 850 WEST HOBSONWAY KRISHNAHARUP INC 52,676.53 3,648.00 3,648.00 12/19/2023 836123002 AMERICAN POWER SOLUTION
12/192023 ISSUED Permit Name ELEC & PLUMB
B2312-016 OTHER 401 EAST HOBSONWAY GANSHAY INC 69,282.39 4,042.78 4,042.78 12/19/2023 845164010 AMERICAN POWER SOLUTION
12/18/2023 ISSUED Permit Name ELEC & PLUMB
PERM133
ROCIAT
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12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 3
3:57:02PM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
B2312-003 OTHER 311 NORTH SOLANO AVENUE JOSE & CAROLINA CEBREROS 10,250.00 243.75 243.75 12/6/2023 836061016 BURROW CONSTRUCTION
12/6/2023 FINALED Permit Name Reroof & Paint
B2312-002 OTHER 1030 NORTH INTAKE BOULEV, HARRY & SHIRLEY GREGORY 4,760.00 174.62 174.62 12/6/2023 857130002 BURROW CONSTRUCTION
12/6/2023 ISSUED Permit Name Reroof & Paint
B2312-004 OTHER 970 VISTA SUNRISE STREET DWANE & IRENE HARRIS 11,000.00 243.85 243.85 12/7/2023 869372017 FERNANDOS AFFORDABLE FU
12/6/2023 ISSUED Permit Name Reroof & Carpeting
Total for: OTHER 237,246.29 12,880.19 12,880.19
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2311-039 PATIO 2215 MCKINLEY DRIVE JAMES & DENA TEATER 26,000.00 854.25 854.25 12/15/2023 824193014 MS CONSTRUCTION
1223/2023 ISSUED Permit Name [2] PATIOS, REROOF & PAINT Total for: PATIO 26,000.00 854.25 854.25
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2310-035 PLUMB 1111 WEST HOBSONWAY LAWRENCE & DEBORAH HUR! 991.00 36.00 36.00 12/4/2023 WATER HEATER 836080057 CRECELIUS INC
10/12/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
B2312-005 PLUMB 1251 NORTH EUCALYPTUS AV! EVELYN J ALFARO 17,000.00 193.00 193.00 12/7/2023 BACKFLOW 839010010 HAZZARD BACKFLOW INC
13712023 ISSUED Permit Name Backflows (2)
B2312-024 PLUMB 592 EAST CHAPARRAL DRIVE DORIS VIRAY 1,600.00 36.00 36.00 12/21/2023 WATER HEATER 842216008 PALO VERDE PLUMBING COM 12212023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
B2311-028 PLUMB 3400 EAST DONLON STREET SOUTHERLAND SHIRLEY LEE 12,700.00 299.00 299.00 12/4/2023 SEPTIC 833270018 CRECELIUS INC
11/2/2023 FINALED Permit Name SEPTIC TANK REPLACEMENT
B2310-037 PLUMB 471 SOUTH SECOND STREET CECILIA NAVARRO 991.00 36.00 36.00 12/4/2023 WATER HEATER 848141018 CRECELIUS INC
10/26/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
B2310-036 PLUMB 424 EAST CHAPARRAL DRIVE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE 991.00 36.00 36.00 12/4/2023 WATER HEATER 842216001 CRECELIUS INC
10/20/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
B2312-028 PLUMB 2461 FLORENCE BOULEVARD MEGAN BARRON 1,000.00 96.00 96.00 12/21/2023 BACKFLOW 824191003 PALO VERDE PLUMBING COM
2/21/201 ISSUED Permit Name BACKFLOW
2/21/20:

B2312-027 PLUMB 2461 FLORENCE BOULEVARD MEGAN BARRON 1,500.00 250.00 250.00 12/21/2023 WATER 824191003 OWNER
1321/2023 ISSUED Permit Name Connection to City Water
PERM133
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12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 4
3:57:02PM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
B2310-034 PLUMB 308 NORTH FIFTH STREET GERALDINE PEARL ALLEN 991.00 36.00 36.00 12/4/2023 WATER HEATER 845093017 CRECELIUS INC
18/11/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
B2311-002 PLUMB 200 NORTH LOVEKIN BOULEY HPD RIVERSIDE & NATL HOUS 1,600.00 96.00 26.00 12/21/2023 BACKFLOW 845100016 PALO VERDE PLUMBING COM
H1/2/2023 ISSUED Permit Name BACKFLOW
B2312-026 PLUMB 400 SOUTH FOURTH STREET ALONZO & SERITHA MACK 1,600.00 36.00 36.00 12/21/2023 WATER HEATER 848162031 PALO VERDE PLUMBING COM 12/21/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
B2312-025 PLUMB 440 NORTH SOLA AVENUE TOMAS & EVELYN MENDEZ 1,600.00 36.00 36.00 12/21/2023 WATER HEATER 851021006 PALO VERDE PLUMBING COM 12/31/2023 ISSUED Permit Name WATER HEATER
Total for: PLUMB 42,564.00 1,186.00 1,186.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2312-038 REMOVE-R 226 SOUTH MAIN STREET ANTONIO ROSALES 62,000.00 0.00 0.00 12/28/2023 848052019 R& L WATKINS INC
12028/2023 ISSUED Permit Name Includes 228 South Main Street B2312-019 REMOVE-R 1837 WEST EIGHTH AVENUE JOSEPH & JACQUE DECONINC 1,000.00 173.00 173.00 12/14/2023 830030002 OWNER
12/4/2023 ISSUED Permit Name
Total for: REMOVE-R 63,000.00 173.00 173.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2312-031 RERF 543 NORTH FIFTH STREET JAMES ALLEN HEFLIN 9,700.00 226.37 226.37 12/28/2023 TEAR OFF 842123005 FINAL TOUCH CONSTRUCTIOT
1227/2023 ISSUED Permit Name TEAR OFF, 14 SQS
B2312-036 RERE 529 NORTH SIXTH STREET TIA LISA LYNN CURL 6,380.00 174.83 174.83 12/28/2023 TEAR OFF 842125007 FINAL TOUCH CONSTRUCTIOT
1227/2023 ISSUED Permit Name TEAR OFF, 9 SQS
B2312-033 RERF 576 NORTH SIXTH STREET NITA F CURL 10,230.00 243.75 243.75 12/28/2023 TEAR OFF 842126013 FINAL TOUCH CONSTRUCTION
120712023 ISSUED Permit Name TEAR OFF, 15 SQS
B2312-032 RERF 519 WILLIAMS ROAD CAROLYN J BLANKS 11,275.00 261.20 261.20 12/28/2023 TEAR OFF 869160080 FINAL TOUCH CONSTRUCTION
1227/2023 ISSUED Permit Name TEAR OFF, 14 SQS
B2312-035 RERF 641 GRANDE VISTA STREET IRMA D REYES 7,000.00 174.91 174.91 12/27/2023 OVER EXIST 869373004 OWNER
1227/2023 ISSUED Permit Name OVER EXISTING, approx 1500 sq f1 B2312-015 RERF 253 NORTH HICKORY ROAD JOSE SANTIAGO LOPEZ 5,000.00 174.65 174.65 12/12/2023 OVER EXIST 851110008 OWNER
13/12/2023 FINALED Permit Name OVER EXISTING, 1900 sq ft PERM133
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12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 5
3:57:02PM PERMITS ISSUED
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
B2312-034 RERF 321 NORTH NINTH STREET TERESAL CLARK 12,000.00 261.29 261.29 12/27/2023 TEAR OFF 851033016 OWNER
12312023 ISSUED Permit Name OE-House, TO-Addition, approx. 5400 sq ft Total for: RERF 61,585.00 1,517.00 1,517.00
Permit No./Issued
Applied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid RC2312-001 RICOUNTY 9480 TENTH AVENUE DANIEL & MARCELA GARNICA 1,500.00 180.80 180.80 12/7/2023 830220007 MS CONSTRUCTION
12/4/2023 Permit Name REROOF & PAINT
RC2311-004 RIYCOUNTY 14231 18TH AVENUE PROPER T VIEW INC 44,058.44 435.23 435.23 12/4/2023 866140006 FREEDOM FOREVER LIC
H1/282233 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
RC2311-003 RIVCOUNTY 17946 PAL OWALLA ROAD HERBIE & ALICIA GRIJALVA 10,000.00 429.80 429.80 12/29/2023 824044013 STEVE GRIFFIN CONSTRUCTIC
IV/282023 ISSUED Permit Name ROOF MOUNT SOLAR
RC2311-005 RIVCOUNTY 18260 PALOWALLA DRIVE BRAMBILA & SALINAS 3,800.00 180.30 180.30 12/8/2023 818293013 OWNER
11/27/2023 FINALED Permit Name GAS LINE INSTALLATION
Total for: RIVCOUNTY 59,358.44 1,226.13 1,226.13
Permit No./Issued
Apolied/Approved Type/Sub-Type/Status Site Address and Parcel No. Owner and Contractor Valuation Fees Paid B2310-019 SIGN 191 SOUTH LOVEKIN BOULEY FRANCHISE REALTY INTERST/ 3,000.00 454.69 454.69 12/12/2023 836123009 SIGN FACTORY PRINTING & O1
101272023 FINALED Permit Name
B2311-035 SIGN 370 SOUTH LOVEKIN BOULEV ALVARO & J GUADALUPE DAV 4,765.00 230.20 230.20 12/15/2023 848100027 CARLOS NEON SIGNS
120/20: ISSUED Permit Name
/13/20
Total for: SIGN 7,765.00 684.89 684.89
55 Permits Issued from 12/1/2023 Thru 12/31/2023 Total Valuation: $1,179,511.61 Total Fees: $30,131.21
Total Fees Paid: $30,080.71
PFRM133
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141491LU6O
City of Blythe
4:05:45PM
Cases Opened (By Type)
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
Type of Case Number opened
BLDG 3
COMPLAINT 6
DEBRIS 2
DUMPING 1
FIRE
TRASH
WATER
WEED 4
ZONING 2
Total Cases Opened: 21
Cases closed: 15
Remaining active cases: 381
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 1
4:03:20PM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
PLANNER NAME: MALLORY CRECELIUS
Project Number Project Type Project Name Status of Project Owner Name Date Applied Date Approved
Site Address Date Expired Date Closed
PRC2312-001 PRC Desert Rose Shelter RECIEVED
MICHAEL & KATHERINE PARRA TRUS 12/6/2023
233 COTTONWOOD LANE
Comments:

Total Projects for MALLORY CRECELIUS For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023: 1 12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 2
4:03:20PM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
PLANNER NAME: MICHELLE VAN DYKE
Project Number Project Type Project Name Status of Project Owner Name Date Applied Date Approved
Site Address Date Expired Date Closed
ZV2312-001 ZONING VERIFICATION COMPLETED
GANSHAY INC 12/11/2023
411 EAST HOBSONWAY 12/28/2023
Comments:

Total Projects for MICHELLE VAN DYKE For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023: 1 -40-
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 3
4:03:20PM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
PLANNER NAME: RICKY AGUILAR
Project Number Project Type Project Name Status of Project Owner Name Date Applied Date Approved
Site Address Date Expired Date Closed
G2312-001 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
MICHAEL C GIESLER 12/6/2023
162 SOUTH SECOND STREET
Comments:

G2312-002 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/6/2023
500 SOUTH LOVEKIN BOULEVARD
Comments:

G2312-003 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/6/2023
400 BLOCK NORTH BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-004 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/6/2023
250 SOUTH COLORADO RIVER ROAD
Comments:

G2312-005 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
US PRIME PROPERTY MANAGEMENT I 12/6/2023
545 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-006 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/7/2023
500 block of W 14TH AVE
Comments:

G2312-007 GRAFFITI bus stop COMPLETED
1217/2023
500 block of W 14TH AVE
Comments:

G2312-008 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/7/2023
400S THIRD ST
Comments:

G2312-009 GRAFFITI SPEED LIMIT SIGN COMPLETED
12/7/2023
300 block of S THIRD ST
Comments:

PRO11S CRW/SYSTEMS
-41-
12129/2023 City of Blythe Page 4
4:03:20PM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
G2312-010 GRAFFITI PLAYGROUND COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/7/2023
375 EAST DONLON STREET
Comments:

G2312-011 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/7/2023
300 block of S THIRD ST
Comments:

G2312-012 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
1217/2023
300 block of S FOURTH ST
Comments:

G2312-013 GRAFFITI STOP SIGN COMPLETED
1217/2023
300 block of S 4TH ST
Comments:

G2312-014 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/7/2023
300 block of ALICE LANE
Comments:

G2312-015 GRAFFITI STOP SIGN COMPLETED
12/7/2023
300 block of STH ST
Comments:

G2312-016 GRAFFITI STOP SIGN COMPLETED
1217/2023
300 block of S SIXTH ST
Comments:

G2312-017 GRAFFITI 'one way' sign COMPLETED
12/7/2023
300 block of S SIXTH ST
Comments:

G2312-018 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
1217/2023
400 block of S SEVENTH ST
Comments:

G2312-019 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
1217/2023
700 block of E 14TH AVE
Comments:

PROMIS CIRW SYSTEMS
-42-
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 5
4:03:20PM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
G2312-020 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
BLYTHE RA 320 LLC 12/13/2023
890 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-021 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
US PRIME PROPERTY MANAGEMENT I 12/13/2023
545 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-022 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
RENOVA PROPERTIES 12/13/2023
1020 EAST BARNARD STREET
Comments:

G2312-023 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
RIVAS & DAVIS 12/13/2023
411 NORTH SOLANO AVENUE
Comments:

G2312-024 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
CALLAN OIL DISTRIBUTING INC 12/13/2023
332 WEST CHANSLORWAY
Comments:

G2312-025 GRAFFITI covered graffit COMPLETED
VILLAGE RETREAT 12/13/2023
301 NORTH EIGHTH STREET
Comments:

G2312-026 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/13/2023
400 block of S SIXTH ST •
Comments:

G2312-027 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/13/2023
400 block of S 5TH ST
Comments:

G2312-028 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/13/2023
400 block of S 4TH ST
Comments:

G2312-029 GRAFFITI crossing sign COMPLETED
12/13/2023
400 block of E 14TH AVE
Comments:

PROIIS CRWSYSTEMS
-43-
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 6
4:03:20PM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
G2312-030 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
12/13/2023
400 block of N WILLOW ST
Comments:

G2312-031 GRAFFITI STOP SIGN COMPLETED
12/13/2023
400 block of N WILLOW ST
Comments:

G2312-032 GRAFFITI skate park COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/14/2023
400 BLOCK NORTH BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-033 GRAFFITI trash can COMPLETED
ROXBURY PROPERTIES LLC 12/14/2023
607 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-034 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
300 block of N MAIN ST
Comments:

G2312-035 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
100 block of W MURPHYST
Comments:

G2312-036 GRAFFITI "slow" children playing sign COMPLETED 12/14/2023
300 block of N MAIN ST
Comments:

G2312-037 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
100 block of 9TH ST
Comments:

G2312-038 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
900 block of E MURPHY ST
Comments:

G2312-039 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
200 block of N 9TH ST
Comments:

PRO115 CRW SYSTEMS
-44-
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 7
4:03:20PM
Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
G2312-040 GRAFFITI school xing sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
600 block of E BARNARD ST
Comments:

G2312-041 GRAFFITI school xing sign COMPLETED
12/14/2023
200 block of N STH ST
Comments:

G2312-042 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
BLYTHE LAUNDRY AND CLEANERS IN 12/20/2023
170 SOUTH THIRD STREET
Comments:

G2312-043 GRAFFITI little island middle of park COMPLETED CITY OF BLYTHE 12/20/2023

TODD PARK
Comments:

G2312-044 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
US PRIME PROPERTY MANAGEMENT I 12/20/2023
545 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-045 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
VILLAGE RETREAT 12/20/2023
301 NORTH EIGHTH STREET
Comments:

G2312-046 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
GRANT & CHERYL MAYFIELD 12/20/2023
413 WEST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-047 GRAFFITI cat walk COMPLETED
12/20/2023
300 block of E DONLON
Comments:

G2312-048 GRAFFITI COVERED GRAFFITI COMPLETED
TRUST OF WARD DONALD RAY DTD 12/20/2023
1900 BLOCK EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

G2312-049 GRAFFITI covered graffiti AWAITING MATERIALS
CORP OF PRES BISHOP CH JESUS C 12/21/2023
700 NORTH BROADWAY
Comments:

PRO11S CIRWSYSTEMS
-45-
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 8
4:03:20PM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
G2312-050 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/21/2023
100 block of CHAPARRAL DR
Comments:

G2312-051 GRAFFITI school xing sign COMPLETED
12/21/2023
500 block of N BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-052 GRAFFITI school speed limit sign COMPLETED
12/21/2023
500 block of N BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-053 GRAFFITI STOP SIGN COMPLETED
12/21/2023
500 block of N BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-054 GRAFFITI school xing sign COMPLETED
12/21/2023
500 block of N BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-055 GRAFFITI stop sign COMPLETED
12/21/2023
200 block of W WELLS
Comments:

G2312-056 CORP OF PRES BISHOP CH JESUS ighborhood marker GRAFFITI COMPLETED 12/27/2023
700 NORTH BROADWAY
Comments:

G2312-057 GRAFFITI RECIEVED
12/27/2023
200 block of W WELLS
Comments:

G2312-058 GRAFFITI PLAY GROUND COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/27/2023
375 EAST DONLON STREET
Comments:

G2312-059 GRAFFITI covered graffiti COMPLETED
OPPORTUNITY ENTERPRISES SD LLC 12/28/2023
945 EAST HOBSONWAY
Comments:

PROIS CRWSYSTEMS
-46-
12/29/2023 City of Blythe Page 9
4:03:20PM Projects by Type, Status and Date
For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023
G2312-060 GRAFFITI skate park COMPLETED
CITY OF BLYTHE 12/28/2023

TODD PARK
Comments:

G2312-061 GRAFFITI wiped graffiti COMPLETED
VILLAGE RETREAT 12/28/2023
301 NORTH EIGHTH STREET
Comments:

G2312-062 GRAFFITI speed limit sign COMPLETED
12/28/2023
800 block of E BARNARD ST
Comments:

Total Projects for RICKY AGUILAR For the Period 12/1/2023 thru 12/31/2023: 62 PRO115 CR SYSTEMS
-47-

CITY OF BLYTHE FIRE DEPARTMENT

MONTHLY INCIDENT AND ACTIVITY REPORT
December 2023
Incident Total
Public Assist / Rescue / Medical Aid 35
Structure 1
Brush, Grass, Leaves 5
Trash, Rubbish, Dumpster 2
Other 4
Total # of Incidents 47
Activity
Drills 4
Staff Meeting
Total Activities 5
Respectfully Submitted
Ronald Hasler, Fire Chief
-48-
CHIEF
BLY HE

BLYTHE POLICE DEPARTMENT
240 North Spring Street • Blythe, CA 92225 • (760) 922-6111 Garth V. Dale, Chief of Police
POLICE
Monthly Incident and Activity Report
December 2023
Incident Total
Resident Burglaries 2
Commercial Burglaries 3
Vehicle Burglaries 1
Domestic Violence 7
3 Battery
Grand Theft
Petty Theft 17
Shoplifting 1
Traffic Collision-Injury 0
Traffic Collision-Non injury 12
Traffic Collision-Hit and Run
Driving Under the Influence 2
Vandalisms 13
Trespassing 1
Prowlers
Public Intoxication 7
Alarm 33
Abandoned Vehicle Abatement 4
AVA Vehicles Tows 1
Vehicle Red Tags 1
Documented Police Reports 151
Total Incidents 1216
-49-
CHIEF
BLYTHE

BLYTHE POLICE DEPARTMENT
240 North Spring Street • Blythe, CA 92225 • (760) 922-6111 Garth V. Dale, Chief of Police

POLICE POLTON
****
Quality of Life Program
The statistics listed below reflect total numbers for the month of December 2023.

Homeless Detail: December
People contacted. 183
People given bus tickets and left town to seek resources 7 elsewhere.

People assisted with obtaining their ID or Social Security 3 Cards to register for housing and assistance.

People transported to or referred to mental health. 8
People detained under 5150 Welfare and institutions 0
Code and transported for treatment.

People awaiting acceptance to rehab. 0
People sent to rehab. 3
People picked up by a family member and taken home 1
out of town.

People assisted with tires and/or gas and relocated to a 5 location for resources out of Blythe.

Traffic Detail:

Citations issued for various traffic related violations.

Traffic enforcement vehicle stops resulting in warnings for minor violations.

Vehicles stored. 12
-50-

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Investment Report for Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2023-2024 December 31, 2023
PRESENTED BY: Christa Elms, City of Treasurer
PREPARED BY: Christa Elms, City of Treasurer
RECOMMENDATION: City Council accepts and files the Quarterly Investment Report.

FISCAL IMPACT: None.

STAFF REPORT: The City of Blythe has for many years invested all excess cash (cash not needed for daily operations) for all City funds and the Successor Agency with the California State Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF). LAIF offers the City and the Agency liquidity and safety. There are more profitable investment instruments on the market, but risk increases with yield.

ATTACHMENTS:

A. City of Blythe Quarter-end statement from LAIF
B. City of Blythe Quarter-end statement for General Checking Account C. Successor Agency Quarter-end statement from LAIF
D. Successor Agency Quarter-end statement for the Agency Checking Account E. Successor Agency Quarter-end statement from US Bank
-51-
California State Treasurer
Fiona Ma, CPA
Po. on 942 day estment Fund January 03, 2024
Sacramento, CA 94209-0001 LAIF Home
(916) 653-3001 PMIA Average Monthly Yields

CITY OF BLYTHE

TREASURER
235 NORTH BROADWAY
BLYTHE, CA 92225
Tran Type Definitions
Account Number:

December 2023 Statement
Account Summary
Total Deposit: 0.00 Beginning Balance: 11,705,645.98
Total Withdrawal: 0.00 Ending Balance: 11,705,645.98
-52-
usbank. CITY OF BLYTHE Business Statement

GENERAL ACCOUNT
235 N BROADWAY Account Number:

BLYTHE CA 92225-1609
Statement Period:

Dec 1, 2023
through
Dec 31, 2023

INFORMATION YOU SHOULD KNOW .. (CONTINUED)
....

Inder lessenions, des use fion Suer Care, dated earlie to or to ease on in ., ustomers secions. rees suo-sectio
network ATM.

If you have questions or need to request a copy of the current Your Deposit Account Agreement, visit usbank.com/tmtermsandconditions or please call your customer service team at the phone number listed at the top of this CORPORATE CHECKING Member FDIC
U.S. Bank National Association Account Number 1-583-0021-2384 Account Summary
#Items
Beginning Balance on Deç 1 $ 9,615,191.38
Customer Deposits 15 20,449.81
Other Windrawals 82 2,466,832.28
71 2,931,627.74-
Ending Balance on Dec 31, 2023 $ 9,170,845.73
-53-
California State Treasurer
Fiona Ma, CPA
Local Agency Investment Func January 03, 2024
.O. Box 942809
Sacramento, CA 94209-0001 LAIF Home
(916) 653-3001 PMIA Average Monthly Yields

S/A CITY OF BLYTHE FOR BLYTHE

REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

FINANCE OFFICER
235 NORTH BROADWAY
BLYTHE, CA 92225
Iran Type Definitions
Account Number:

December 2023 Statement
Account Summary
Total Deposit: 0.00 Beginning Balance: 1.53
Total Withdrawal: 0.00 Ending Balance: 1.53
-54-
Mechanics Bank®
Statement Ending 12/29/2023
P.O. Box 2200
Corona, CA 92878 Page 1 of 4
800.797.6324
www.mechanicsbank.com
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Managing Your Accounts
Client Services 800.797.6324
CITY OF BLYTHE Online www.mechanicsbank.cem

SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE
BLYTHE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Mobile Download Our Mobile Apps 235 N BROADWAY
BLYTHE CA 92225-1609

WAIT BEFORE YOU WIRE
Protecting your assets and finances from
wire fraud is crucial as a business owner
Check out our blog 'The Long Weekend' to learn what
you should do at www.MechanicsBank.com/Insights

WATCH OUT FOR TECH SUPPORT SCAMS
Scammers pose as technology support representatives and offer to fix non-existent computer or technology issues.

Learn how to spot this scam at www.MechanicsBank.com/Security.

Summary of Accounts
Account Type Account Number Ending Balance
PUBLIC INTEREST CHECKING XXXXXXX $1,983,537.54
Member
-DIC
-55-
000638627124934
317
usbank 058129164- 2-N-06
697781281-231230-3148-058129691-06
Account Name: Successor Agency To The Blythe Redevelopment Agency Custody Account Page 2 of 6 Account Number:|
December 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023

MARKET VALUE SUMMARY
Current Period
12/01/23 to 12/31/23
Beginning Market Value $3,103,474.13
Adjusted Market Value $3,103,474.13
Investment Results
Interest, Dividends and Other Income 8,641.34
Net Change in Investment Value -1.73
Total Investment Results $8,639.61
Ending Market Value $3,112,113.74
-56-

NS FIRS

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Amendment Number One to Agreement with Joe A. Gonsalves & Son for State Legislative Advocacy Services.

PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended Council authorize the Interim City Manager to nter into Agreement No. 2024-001 A with Joe A. Gonsalves & Son for State Legislativ Advocacy Services and authorize the Interim City Manager to execute any future amendments to the agreement that do not increase Joe A. Gonsalves & Son's maximum compensation.

FISCAL IMPACT: $50,000 from the General Fund.

BACKGROUND: On December 6, 2022, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) announced the planned closure of Chuckawalla Valley State Prison (CVSP) located in Blythe by March 2025. The City immediately opposed the closure and engaged Tripepi Smith to launch the Save Chuck Public Relations Campaign and Joe A.

Gonsalves & Son to provide full-service State Legislative Advocacy Services.

Joe A. Gonsalves and Son have almost 50 years of experience in Sacramento and have established relationships with lawmakers.

STAFF REPORT: When the City first awarded agreements to Tripepi Smith and Joe A.

Gonsalves & Son to assist with the campaign to Save Chuck, it was believed the City had until June 2023 to work with legislators to fight the closure. This was not the case, and the work to Save Chuck continues. Even after final decisions are made by the State, there will be continued conversations with legislators on how the City would recover after a potential closure. The services provided by Joe A. Gonsalves & Son will be needed during those conversations. Along with Save Chuck, the firm has aided with the City's opposition to SB 1383, the Organics Recovery and Recycling legislation and can support the City with other State related matters impacting the City. In anticipation of a need to continue these services past the original term of this agreement, staff budgeted funding in the current budget to extend this agreement.

The Agreement with Joe A. Gonsalves and Son has a term of one year with a total compensation of $50,000. As the work continues, staff wishes to amend the agreement to provide for an additional year and increase the maximum compensation for the term of the agreement to $100,000.

ATTACHMENTS:

Amendment Number One to the Professional Services Agreement with Joe A. Gonsalves & Son
-57-
Agreement No. 2024-001 A

CITY OF BLYTHE

AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE TO

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
WITH
JOE A. GONSALVES & SON

THIS AMENDMENT NUMBER ONE TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT ("Amendment") is made and entered into as of January 9, 2024 ("Effective Date") by and between the CITY OF BLYTHE, a municipal corporation ("City") and JOE A. GONSALVES & SON, a California corporation (Consultant).

WHEREAS, City and Consultant entered into a Professional Services Agreement dated January 27, 2023 for consultant to provide State Legislative Advocacy Services in connection with the proposed closure of Chuckawalla Valley State Prison ("Agreement"); and WHEREAS, the Agreement provides for a term of one (1) year, ending January 26, 2024; and
WHEREAS, City and Consultant desire to extend the term of the Agreement for one (1) year, through January 26, 2025; and
WHEREAS, City and Consultant desire to increase Consultant's maximum compensation accordingly.

NOW, THEREFORE, for valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as tollows:

The term of the Agreement shall be extended through January 26, 2025.

Section 2.1 of the Agreement shall be amended to reflect that Consultant's total compensation shall not exceed One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00).

All terms not defined herein shall have the same meaning and use as set forth in the Agreement.

4. All other terms, conditions, and provisions of the Agreement not in conflict with this Amendment shall remain in full force and effect.

This Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original. All counterparts shall be construed together and shall constitute one agreement. Counterpart written signatures may be transmitted by facsimile, email or other electronic means and have the same legal effect as if they were original signatures.
[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS.]
1 Joe A. Gonsalves & Son
Amendment One
-58-
Agreement No. 2024-001 A
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed by and through their respective authorized officers, as of the date first above written.

CITY OF BLYTHE CONSULTANT
Mallory Crecelius Anthony Gonsalves
Interim City Manager President
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
2 Joe A. Gonsalves & Son
Amendment One
-59-

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Acceptance of a 2,216 Square Foot Portion of Real Property located along Quail Run Road.

PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended Council adopt Resolution No. 2024-001:

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-001. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ACCEPTING A GRANT DEED FOR THE CONVEYANCE OF A 2,216 SQUARE FOOT PORTION OF REAL PROPERTY

LOCATED ALONG QUAIL RUN ROAD, CONSENTING TO THE RECORDATION OF THE GRANT DEED AND AUTHORIZING THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE.

FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: The Holt Group, Agent for Jack R. Schuringa determined that a 2,216 square foot portion of Quail Run Road, which is dedicated City Street was included on a parcel owned by Mr. Schuringa. Mr. Schuring wishes to remove the roadway from his property. This is in the interest of both the City and Mr. Schuringa to have Quail Run Road on land owned by the City.

The Holt Group proposed preparing a Grant Deed to dedicate that portion of public right-of-way to the City.

STAFF REPORT: The Holt Group prepared the necessary documents for the Grant Deed for the conveyance which were then reviewed and approved by the City's Engineer. It is therefore recommended Council adopt Resolution No. 2024-001 accepting this portion of property via Mand Ped content to the rect of An of the for his po and authorie the interin city ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution No. 2024-001
Certificate of Acceptance
-60-
RESOLUTION 2024-001

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ACCEPTING A GRANT DEED
FOR THE CONVEYANCE OF A 2,216 SQUARE FOOT

PORTION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED ALONG QUAIL

RUN ROAD, CONSENTING TO THE RECORDATION OF

THE GRANT DEED, AND AUTHORIZING THE INTERIM

CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE CERTIFICATE OF

ACCEPTANCE
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:

WHEREAS, California Government Code section 27281 provides that deeds or grants conveying any interest in or easement upon real estate to a political corporation or governmental agency for public purposes shall not be accepted for recordation without the consent of the grantee evidenced by its certificate or resolution of acceptance; and Trust, executed a ran e. dateria Trust 0, 2023, Stached her as ten 1, for the conveyance in fee title for streets, highways, public utility installations and other appurtenant uses, together with the right to construct, maintain, repair, operate, use, dedicate or declare the same for public use, in, on, under, over and across the 2,216 square foot portion of the real property located along Quail Run Road and identified as APN 821-170-021, as more particularly described and depicted in Exhibits "A" and "B" to the Grant Deed; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to accept the Grant Deed, consent to its recordation, and authorize the Interim City Manager to execute a Certificate of Acceptance.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. The City Council hereby accepts the Grant Deed for the conveyance in fee title of the 2,216 square foot portion of the real property located on Quail Run Road and identified as APN 821-071-021, as more particularly described and depicted in Exhibits "A" and "B" to the Grant Deed, and consents to the recordation of the Grant Deed.

SECTION 2. The City Council hereby authorizes the Interim City Manager to execute a Certificate of Acceptance.

Resolution No. 2024-001

-61-
ATTACHMENT 1

GRANT DEED
-62-

RECORDED REQUESTED BY AND
WHEN RECORDED MAIL TO:

The City of Blythe
235 N. Broadway
Blythe, CA 92225
Attention: Engineering Division
Ersa ton Peorien Code Section 6103 Exempt from Document Transfer Tax Pursuant to R&T Code § 11922
APN: 821-170-021 (Sproe abovo this line for Rocorder's uno)

GRANT DEED
(Quail Run Road)
FOR A VALUABLE CONSIDERATION, receipt of which is hereby acknowlødged, Jack R. Schurings, Trustee of The Susan Schuringa Decendent's Trust ("Grantor"), hereby grants to THE CITY OF BLYTHE, a California Municipal Corporation and general law city duly created and existing under the laws of the State of California ("Grantee"), a conveyance in fee title for streets, highways, public utility installations and other appurtenant uses, together with he right to construct, maintain, repair, operate, use, dedicate or declare the same for public use n, on, under, over and across the real property in the City of Blythe, County of Riverside, Stat of California, described as follows:

Being the land described in Exhibit "A" and shown on Exhibit "B", attached hereto and made a part hereof.

GRANTOR: Jack R. Schuringa,
Trustee of The Susan Schuringa Decendent's Trust
BY: Jack R. Schuringa,
Trustee of The Susan Schuringa Decendent's Trust
Dated: 16 30-23 an fark Blelunge
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Gallfomla All Purpose Certificate of Acknowledgmen'
State of Callferia Idaho
county of _ Kooterai.
on Movember 30,3_betorame Krishe Bruin
parsonally appeared lack R.Schuringa
Nighe or Signers?
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who proved to me on the baais of satisfactory evidence to ba the person(s) whose name. (s/are subscribed to the within instrument and ackrowledged to me that he/she/they exec. ted the same in his/herither authorized capacityie), and that by his/her/their signature(s). on the instrument the persori(e), or the entity upon behalt of which. the person (s) acted, executed the instrument
1 cerify under PENALTY OF PERJURY. under the lawe. MATE DRUN of the State of Callfomia thiet the foregoing paragraph is true and correct. NOTARY
WITNESS my hand and officlal seal. PUBLIC
STATE O 1949599)
Egnature of
OPTIONAL INFORMATION.
"Alhough the information in this section l not required by lo, it could previn freudulent ramanal and reattachmani of this acknowlarant lo an unautorted document und may prove usalil ta persons rating on the attached document.

Description of Altached Dacument:

The preceding Cortificati of Actiningädgment Is attached is a Had t81 gner lide document eliditor the purpose of; Proved to in on the balle of i ory evidences Grant Deed
Voterle enientle datable innoiaryjoumion .
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EXHIBIT "A"

RIGHT-OF-WAY DEDICATION
APN 821-170-021

BEING A PORTION OF THE PARCEL AS DESCRIBED IN GRANT DEED RECORDED FEBRUARY 6, 2013 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 2013-0064441, IN THE CITY OF BLYTHE,

OFFICIAL RECORDS OF RIVERSIDE COUNTY, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ALSO BEING A PORTION OF THE NORTHEAST ONE QUARTER OF SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 6 SOUTH, RANGE 22 EAST, SBM, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID PARCEL, THENCE ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID PARCEL NORTH 63°23'19" EAST, A DISTANCE OF 138.92 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER THEREOF;
THENCE ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID PARCEL, SOUTH 41°58'13" EAST, A DISTANCE OF 15.56 FEET;
THENCE LEAVING SAID EAST LINE, SOUTH 62°36'46" WEST, A DISTANCE OF 138.62 FEET TO A POINT ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF SAID PARCEL;
THENCE ALONG SAID WESTERLY LINE, NORTH 41°19'28" WEST, A DISTANCE OF 17.45 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.

SAID DESCRIBED PARCEL CONTAINS 2,216 SQUARE FEET, MORE OR LESS. FOR GRAPHICAL PURPOSES SEE EXHIBIT "B" ATTACHED HERETO AND BY REFERENCE MADE A PART HEREOF.
repared under yue supery ysic
Cathe Date: 11/20/23
HOBERT K. HOLT
No. 27843
Robert K. Holt, P.E. #27943
Expires 3/31/24 Етр. 3-91-24
201 East Hobsonway CIVIL
Blythe, CA 92225
(760) 922-4658
D: NTDR Holl Group|Carmack Parcel MapiSchuringa ROW Dedication EXHIBIT_A_ROW DED. doc Page I of !
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SEC. 12, T6S, R22E SBM SHEET 1 OF 1
EXHIBIT "B"
APN 821-170-021
LEGEND:

EXISTING RIGHT OF WAY

PROPERTY LINE

VILIZZ RIGHT-OF-WAY DEDICATION
QUAIL RUN ROAD N63'23'19"E 138.92'
S62'36'46 W 138.62° 2,216 SF 541'58'13'E 15.56'
ров
INST. NO. 2013-0064441
REC. 6/2/2013
N4119'28'W 17.45'

ROADWAY

BEARING AND DISTANCES SHOWN HEREON
ARE PER DEED RECORDED 2/8/2013 AS
WST. NO. 2013-0064441,

PREPARE UNDER
SCALE: 1"=60'
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TIL 11ST TUTE
Blythe

CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE
(California Government Code Section 27281)
This is to certify that the interest in real property conveyed by the Grant Deed dated November 30, 2023 from Jack Schuringa, Trustee of The Susan Schuringa Decedent's Trust, to the City of Blythe, a municipal corporation, is hereby accepted by Resolution No. 2024-001 of the Blythe City Council adopted on January 9, 2024, and the grantee consents to recordation thereof by its duly authorized officer.

Dated: January 10, 2024
By:

Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
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CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Ordinance No. 923-23 Repealing and Replacing Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 923-23:

ORDINANCE NO. 923-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING CHAPTER 17.26 (SIGNS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE

BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL

REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B) (3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION) FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: The last comprehensive update of the City's Sign Ordinance occurred in 2004.

In early 2023, the City Council met in a Study Session to discuss proposed amendments to the City's Sign Ordinance. Staff sought direction from Council on potential amendments to the City's Sign Ordinance to provide clear guidance on the type and size of signs allowed within commercial and non-commercial zones. It was also intended to make the Sign Ordinance easier to use and have a favorable outcome for businesses. Staff took direction at the Study Session and went to work on proposed amendments to the City's Sign Ordinance.

The Blythe Municipal Code and State law require two public hearings regarding the proposed Ordinance. On October 10, 2023, the City Council, acting as the Planning Agency, conducted a public hearing regarding proposed Ordinance No. 923-23. On November 14, 2023, the City Council conducted the second public hearing regarding the proposed Ordinance. Following public comment, the City Council voted to continue the public hearing to December 12, 2023 to allow the public additional time to submit feedback regarding the proposed Ordinance. Following the public hearing on December 12, 2023, the City Council introduced the proposed Ordinance.

STAFF REPORT: Significant changes were made to the City's Sign Ordinance for compliance with State and Federal law. Also included in the proposed Ordinance are the items discussed at the Study Session. Signs that were previously prohibited including A-frame signs and billboards are permitted in the proposed Ordinance with regulations. The number of allowable signs, sign height and sign area were increased in the proposed Ordinance. The current Ordinance has a maximum size aggregate of 50 sq. ft. In the proposed Ordinance, the total maximum sign aggregate is 250 sq. ft. based on the property's parcel size. If adopted, larger parcels would have the opportunity to install larger signs to match the scale of their development. -68-
The proposed Sign Ordinance allows for up to a total of four signs in commercial zones and industrial zones, with a maximum of two signs per building side. The current Ordinance does not allow for more than two signs with no more than one sign per building. This was problematic for businesses wanting to place both their business name and logo on their building. This will allow businesses more flexibility in their signage plan and will help meet the needs of corporate businesses with standardized signage requirements. The proposed Ordinance also addresses temporary window sign placement and permanent window signs, like window graphics, which are not specifically addressed in the current Ordinance.

The proposed Ordinance provides a definition and procedures for murals. The Ordinance outlines the mural approval process, which is a recommendation from the Art in Public Places Committee to the City Council.

Staff's intent with this update was to provide better signage options for our businesses while promoting the public health, safety and welfare and preserving community aesthetics through the implementation of a uniform set of rules and regulations.

Prior to and following the November 14, 2023 Council meeting, staff received feedback from the public regarding the proposed Ordinance. Staff further revised the Ordinance based upon the feedback received.

Staff believes the proposed Ordinance is representative of the goals of the City. Therefore, staff recommends that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 923-23.

ATTACHMENTS:

Ordinance No. 923-23
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ORDINANCE NO. 923-23

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 17.26 (SIGNS) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING) OF THE

BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE

ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL

REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL

QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA
GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE

EXEMPTION)
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:

WHEREAS, the City of Blythe, pursuant to its police power, has the authority to take appropriate action to address concerns regarding traffic safety and aesthetics, as they relate to signs (Metromedia Inc. v. City of San Diego, 453 U.S. 490 (1981)); and WHEREAS, signs constitute speech protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and by Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution of the State of California and the City's regulation of signs must be consistent with these protections; and
WHEREAS, an uncontrolled proliferation of signs within the City is harmful to the public's health, safety, and welfare, in that such signs are:
a. aesthetically displeasing, distracting, discordant with their surroundings and detract from the natural beauty of the City, and
they create a safety hazard as drivers, pedestrians, and others venturing into the public area will be distracted by attempting to read an excessive number of signs that are placed in a haphazard, dangerous, or dangerously attention-seeking manner; and
WHEREAS, the City has a substantial interest in regulating signs to further the City's substantial interests in traffic safety and aesthetics, consistent with National Advertising Co. v. City of Orange, 861 F.2d 246, 248 (9th Cir. 1988) and Foti v. City of Menlo Park, 146 F.3d 629 (9th Cir. 1998); and
WHEREAS, businesses have an interest in having signage that effectively advertises their goods or services, and is visible to potential customers; and WHEREAS, City residents and visitors have a substantial interest in visiting, living, and working in an aesthetically pleasing City; and
Ordinance No. 923-23

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WHEREAS, City residents and visitors have a substantial interest in traffic safety within the City; and
WHEREAS, the City has properly balanced its interests in aesthetics and traffic safety with the interests of businesses and consumers by limiting off-site commercial signs, and by limiting the time, place, and manner of placement of commercial signs on commercial lots; and
WHEREAS, signs take up space and may obstruct views, distract motorists, displace alternative uses for land, and pose other problems that legitimately call for regulation; and
WHEREAS, commercial speech can be regulated more stringently than non- commercial speech; however, the City Council recognizes the need of businesses in the City to communicate to the public about the goods and services they provide; and WHEREAS, the City Council intends to ensure its regulations are content-neutral and are the least restrictive means to achieve the goals set forth herein (See e.g., Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 76 U.S. 155 (2015); and
WHEREAS, these regulations allow on-site commercial signage while limiting off- site advertising signs, the City Council having found that onsite commercial speech is more valuable than off-site commercial speech, as permitted in Outdoor Systems, Inc. V.

City of Mesa, 997 F.2d 604, 611 (9th Cir. 1993) and Metromedia Inc. v. City of San Diego, 453 U.S. 490 (1981); and
WHEREAS, because signs are speech protected by the United States and the California Constitutions, detailed procedures are necessary to ensure that permits are expeditiously issued or denied based on objective criteria and consistent with due process of law; and
WHEREAS, a message substitution provision has been added to the City's sign regulations, allowing any sign regulated by the new provisions of this Ordinance to display a non-commercial message, so that the City's regulations satisfy the constitutional mandate that it not restrict non-commercial signage to a greater degree than commercial signage. (See Clear Channel Outdoor, Inc. v. City of Los Angeles, 340 F.3d 810 (9th Cir. 2003); Outdoor Systems. Inc. v. City of Mesa, 997 F.2d 604 (9th Cir. 1993); and WHEREAS, the unregulated proliferation of temporary signs in the public right-of- way can be detrimental to the aesthetic quality of the streets and sidewalks, can interfere with traffic safety, pedestrian access to public sidewalks and streets, and can obstruct the entrance to businesses and residences; and
WHEREAS, prohibiting commercial conduct that is intended to, or that does in fact, attract the attention of drivers, furthers the City's substantial interest in traffic safety (See, e.g., Sanctity of Life Network v. California Highway Patrol, 105 Cal. App. 4th 858, 862 Ordinance No. 923-23

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(2003) (holding that protected First Amendment speech can be restricted if it interferes with traffic)); and
WHEREAS, Section 17.66.060 (Public Hearings) of Chapter 17.66 (Amendments-Rezones) of Division V (Administration, Permits and Variances) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code requires the City Council to conduct two public hearings prior to amending the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, on October 10, 2023, the City Council of the City of Blythe, acting as the City's Planning Agency, held a duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendments to Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, on November 14, 2023, the City Council of the City of Blythe held a second duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendment to Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code, and continued the public hearing to December 12, 2023; and
WHEREAS, on December 12, 2023, the City Council of the City of Blythe held the continued public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed amendment to Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines. The Ordinance has been found to be exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) because the Ordinance will not have a significant effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Zoning Code amendments are consistent with the City's General Plan; and
WHEREAS, all legal requirements prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council finds that the recitals set forth above are true and correct.

SECTION 2. Amendment to Chapter 17.26 of Title 17. Chapter 17.26 (Signs) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Ordinance No. 923-23

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Chapter 17.26 - SIGNS

17.26.010 - Findings.

The city council finds all of the following:

A. Police power. The city, pursuant to its police power, has the authority to take appropriate action to address concerns regarding traffic safety and aesthetics, as they relate to signs (Metromedia Inc. v. City of San Diego, 453 U.S. 490 (1981)); and
B. First Amendment. Signs constitute speech protected by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution and by Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution of the State of California and that its regulation of signs must be consistent with these protections; and
C. Harms of non-regulation. An uncontrolled proliferation of signs within the city is harmful to the public's health, safety and welfare, in that such signs are:

1. aesthetically displeasing, distracting, discordant with their surroundings and detract from the natural beauty of the city, and

2. they create a safety hazard as drivers, pedestrians, and others venturing into the public area will be distracted by attempting to read an excessive number of signs that are placed in a haphazard, dangerous, or dangerously attention- seeking manner; and
D. Substantial interest. The city has a substantial interest in regulating signs and the regulations within this chapter further the city's substantial interests in traffic safety and aesthetics, consistent with National Advertising Co. v. City of Orange, 861 F.2d 246, 248 (9th Cir. 1988) and Foti v. City of Menlo Park, 146 F.3d 629 (9th Cir. 1998); and
E. Commercial interests. Businesses have an interest in having signage that effectively advertises their goods or services, and is visible to potential customers; and
F. Aesthetic interests. City residents and visitors have a substantial interest in visiting, living, and working in an aesthetically pleasing city; and G. Traffic safety interest. City residents and visitors have a substantial interest in traffic safety within the city; and
H. Limited regulation is necessary. The city has properly balanced its interests in aesthetics and traffic safety with the interests of businesses and consumers by Ordinance No. 923-23

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limiting off-site commercial signs, and by limiting the time, place, and manner of placement of commercial signs on commercial lots; and
legitimately call for regulation; and
J. Commercial speech vs. non-commercial speech. Commercial speech can be regulated more stringently than non-commercial speech; however, the city council recognizes the need of businesses in the city to communicate to the public about the goods and services they provide; and
K. Content neutrality. The city council intends this chapter to ensure its regulations are content-neutral and are the least restrictive means to achieve the goals set forth herein (See e.g., Reed v. Town of Gilbert, 76 U.S. 155 (2015); and L. On-site signage. These regulations allow on-site commercial signage while limiting off-site advertising signs, the city council having found that onsite commercial speech is more valuable than off-site commercial speech, as permitted in Outdoor Systems, Inc. v. City of Mesa, 997 F.2d 604, 611 (9th Cir. 1993) and Metromedia Inc. v. City of San Diego, 453 U.S. 490 (1981); and
M. Procedures are beneficial. Because signs are speech protected by the United States and the California Constitutions, detailed procedures are necessary to ensure that permits are expeditiously issued or denied based on objective criteria and consistent with due process of law; and
N. Message substitution. A message substitution provision has been added to the city's sign regulations, allowing any sign regulated by the new provisions of this ordinance to display a non-commercial message, so that the city's regulations satisfy the constitutional mandate that it not restrict non-commercial signage to a greater degree than commercial signage. (See Clear Channe/ Outdoor, Inc. v. City of Los Angeles, 340 F.3d 810 (9th Cir. 2003); Outdoor Systems. Inc. v. City of Mesa, 997 F.2d 604 (9th Cir. 1993); and
O. Temporary signs. The unregulated proliferation of temporary signs in the public right-of-way can be detrimental to the aesthetic quality of the streets and sidewalks, can interfere with traffic safety, pedestrian access to public sidewalks and streets, and can obstruct the entrance to businesses and residences; and P. Limits on interfering with traffic. Prohibiting commercial conduct that is intended to, or that does in fact, attract the attention of drivers, furthers the city's substantial interest in traffic safety (See, e.g., Sanctity of Life Network v. California Highway Patrol, 105 Cal. App. 4th 858, 862 (2003) (holding that protected First Amendment speech can be restricted if it interferes with traffic)).

Ordinance No. 923-23

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17.26.020 - Purpose.

The purpose of this chapter is to promote the public health, safety and welfare and preserve community aesthetics through implementation of a uniform set of rules and regulations. This chapter is intended to:

A. Preserve and improve the appearance of the city as a place to live, work, and visit; B. Reduce visual clutter while providing reasonable opportunities for adequate identification of businesses and the goods and services they offer; C. Promote signs and graphics that are attractive, pleasing, and harmonized with the physical character of the environment and surrounding properties; D. Ensure that signs effectively identify businesses and other establishments; E. Prevent an inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over non-commercial speech; and
F. Reduce traffic hazards.

17.26.030 - Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply. These definitions shall be adapted to the context for appropriate grammatical tenses, number, case, and gender.
"A-frame sign" means a freestanding sign usually hinged at the top, or attached in a similar manner, and widening at the bottom to form a shape similar to the letter "A." Such signs are usually designed to be portable and are not considered permanent signs. "Abandoned sign" means a sign which is one of the following: (a) located on property which becomes vacant or unoccupied for one year or more; (b) previously pertained to an on-site occupant or business, but is now unrelated to the premises' present occupant or business; or (c) a sign which pertains to a time, event, or purpose which no longer applies.
"Accessory sign" means a sign whose copy refers to the products, facilities, or services available on the premises.
"Advertising statuary" means an imitation or representation of a person or thing which is sculptured, molded, modeled, or cast in any solid or plastic substance, material or fabric and used to identify or advertise a product or service.

Ordinance No. 923-23

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"Advertising vehicle" means any vehicle or trailer on a public right-of-way or public property or on private property visible from a public right-of-way which has attached thereto, or located thereon, any advertising device or detachable sign, which device or sign has the basic purpose of advertisement. One example of an "advertising vehicle" is a vehicle towing a trailer with an arrow directing traffic to a commercial establishment. "Aggregate sign area" means the total area of all signs combined. "Animated sign" means any sign which includes action or motion or the optical illusion of action or motion, or color changes of all or any part of the sign facing, requiring electrical energy, or set in motion by movement of the atmosphere. Excluded from the definition are flags.
"Art mural" means a non-commercial, original, one-of-a-kind, hand-painted, or hand- tiled work of visual art on the exterior wall, façade, or surface of a building. "Art mural" does not include murals containing any electrical or mechanical components or changing image murals.
"Attraction board" means a sign capable of supporting copy which is readily changeable without the use of tools. An example of an attraction board is a theater marquee.
"Banner" means a sign hung without frames, possessing written communication applied to nonrigid paper, plastic, fabric, or similar material. "Billboard" means a sign with a commercial message, other than a directional sign, which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, or entertainment conducted, sold, or offered elsewhere than upon the premise where the sign is located, or to which it is affixed. Also known as an outdoor advertising sign.
"Building-mounted sign" means a sign affixed to a building, painted directly on a wall, or erected against the wall of a building. All parts of the sign are affixed flush to the wall.

Building-mounted signs may include murals, signs affixed to awnings (excluding under canopy signs), signs attached to fascia, mansard roof signs, wall signs, and window signs. "Business" means a commercial, office, institutional or industrial establishment. "Canopy" means a fixed structure of any material and any length, projecting from and connected to a building and/or columns and posts from the ground or supported by a frame extending from the building and/or posts from the ground. "Copy" or "sign copy" means any words, letters, numbers, figures, designs, or other symbolic representations incorporated onto the face of a sign.

Ordinance No. 923-23

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"Commercial sign" means a sign which is "commercial" as defined by applicable case law interpreting the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. Typical examples of "commercial" signs include advertisements of a particular product or service. "Development" means, on land or in or under water: the placement or erection of any solid material or structure; discharge or disposal of any dredged material or of any gaseous, liquid, solid or thermal waste; grading, removing, dredging, mining or extraction of any materials; change in the density or intensity of use of land, including but not limited to subdivision pursuant to the Subdivision Map Act, and any other division of land, including lot splits, except where the land division is brought about in connection with the purchase of such land by a public agency for public recreational use; change in the intensity of use of water, or of access thereto; construction, reconstruction, demolition or alteration of the size of any structure, including any facility of any private, public or municipal utility; and the removal or harvesting of major vegetation other than for agricultural purposes.
"Directional sign" means any sign which is designed and erected solely for the purpose of traffic or pedestrian direction and which is placed on the property to which or on which the public is directed. Such a sign contains no advertising copy. Typical examples of such signs are: "one-way," "entrance," "exit," "parking in rear," "fifteen miles per hour," "no left turn."
"Director" or "planning director" means the director of the City of Blythe development services department or the director's authorized agent or representative. "Downtown area" means that area on Hobsonway extending from the east side of Ash Avenue to the west side of Third Street; and the area between the alley west of Main Street to the alley east of First Street extending north from Hobsonway to Murphy Street and south from Hobsonway to Rice Street.
"Face of building wall" means the outer surface of any main exterior wall or foundation of a building, including windows and store fronts.
"Fascia" means a parapet-type wall used as part of the fascia of a flat-roofed building and projecting not more than six feet from the building face immediately adjacent thereto.

Such a wall shall enclose at least three sides of the projecting flat roof and return to a parapet wall or the building.
"Flag" means a visual display device without copy, made of flexible material, usually cloth, paper, or plastic.
"Flashing sign" means any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light source or which includes the illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation or an externally mounted intermittent light source.

Ordinance No. 923-23

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"Freestanding sign" means a sign supported upon the ground and not attached to any building. This definition includes monument signs and ground signs. "Identification sign" or "ID sign" means a sign whose copy is limited to the name and address of a building, business, office, establishment, person, or activity. "Illumination" or "illuminated" means the method by which a sign is lighted to be readable at night. The following types of illumination are provided for in this chapter:

1. "Direct illumination" means the lighting of the sign face from behind so that the light shines through translucent sign copy or lighting via neon or other gases within translucent tubing incorporated onto or into the sign face.

2. "Indirect illumination" means the lighting of an opaque sign face from a light source mounted in front of the face, or the lighting of opaque sign copy (on an opaque sign face) via lights mounted into the copy and shining rearward onto the face to form a lighted "halo" around the copy (e.g., "reverse channel" letters). "Improvement plan(s)" means on- and off-site construction drawings. "Landscaping" means any material used as a decorative feature, such as shrubbery or planting materials within planter boxes or concrete bases, used in conjunction with a sign which expresses the theme of the sign and related structure but does not contain advertising copy.
"Lot" means a parcel of real property which is shown as a single lot in a lawfully recorded subdivision, approved pursuant to the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act; or, a parcel of real property, the dimensions and boundaries of which are defined as a single lot by a lawfully recorded record of survey map. See "site." "Mansard roof sign" means any sign attached to or supported by a mansard roof. A "mansard roof' is a roof having two slopes, the lower steeper than the upper, and having a slope of sixty degrees or greater with the horizontal plane. "Modification" or "modify" means the addition of structures or equipment to a previously approved installation. The term does not include replacement of existing equipment or structures, provided the replacement equipment or structure is substantially similar to the pre-existing equipment or structure, and creates no new impacts not addressed in connection with the previous approval. Solely repainting a sign in original colors is not a "modification."
"Monument sign" means a freestanding sign mounted on a low-profile solid base or a fence, or a freestanding wall, as distinguished from support by poles. "Multi-building complex" means more than one structure on a parcel of land housing commercial uses in which there are appurtenant shared facilities (such as parking or Ordinance No. 923-23

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pedestrian mall), and which is designed to provide an area in which the public can obtain varied products and services. Distinguishing characteristics of a multi-building complex may, but need not, include common ownership of the real property upon which the center is located, common-wall construction, and multiple-tenant commercial use of a single structure or structures in multiple buildings.
"Multi-tenant commercial building" means a commercial development in which there exist multiple separate commercial activities, in which there are appurtenant shared facilities (such as parking or pedestrian mall), and which is designed to provide a single area in which the public can obtain varied products and services. Distinguishing characteristics of a multi-tenant commercial building may, but need not, include common ownership of the real property upon which the center is located, common-wall construction and multiple-occupant commercial use of a single structure. "Neon sign" means a sign which utilizes neon or other gases within translucent tubing in or on any part of the sign structure.
"Non-commercial sign" means any sign which is not a commercial sign. Examples include, but are not limited to, political signs and ideological signs. "Off-premises sign" or "off-site sign" means a structure which bears a sign which is not appurtenant to the use of the property where the sign is located or a product sold or a service offered upon the property where the sign is located, and which does not identify the place of business where the sign is located as a purveyor of the merchandise or services advertised upon the sign. Some temporary signs are not defined as off-premises signs as used within this chapter.
"On-premises sign" or "on-site sign" means a sign referring to a person, establishment, merchandise, service, event, or entertainment which is located, sold, produced, manufactured, provided, or furnished on the premises where the sign is located. "Parapet wall" means a wall extending above the roof plane of the building. "Permanent sign" means any sign which is intended to be and is so constructed as to be a lasting and enduring condition, remaining unchanged in character, condition (beyond normal wear) and position and in a permanent manner affixed to the ground, wall, or building. A sign may be a "permanent sign" even if the sign itself has changeable copy. "Political sign" means a sign indicating the name and/or picture of an individual seeking election to a public office, or relating to a forthcoming public election, referendum, initiative, or to the advocating by persons, groups or parties of political views or policies. "Portable commercial sign" means a commercial sign made of any material, which, by its design, is readily movable, whether or not equipped with wheels, casters or rollers or other similar design, which sign is not permanently affixed to the ground, structure or building, or a sign upon a vehicle or trailer used as a stationary advertising display, the Ordinance No. 923-23

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primary purpose of which is to serve as a base or platform for the sign. This definition generally includes A-frame signs.
"Projecting sign" means any sign with two parallel faces no more than eighteen inches apart projecting twelve inches or more from the wall or eaves of a building. No guy wires, braces or secondary supports are visible.
"Private property" means any property other than public property. "Roof sign" means any sign erected upon or above a roof or parapet wall of a building or placed above the apparent flat roof or eaves of a building. "Semipermanent sign" means a non-illuminated sign intended to be erected or posted for a minimum of 61 days and a maximum of one year. Typical examples include a sign advertising the future construction of one or more buildings or a model home complex. "Sign" means any medium for visual communication, including but not limited to words, symbols and/or illustrations, together with all parts, materials, frame, and background, which is used or intended to be used to attract attention to, identify or advertise an establishment, product, service, cause, activity or location, or to provide information or opinion, or to convey a message. "Sign" includes, but is not limited to posters, reader boards, placards, fliers, handbills, paintings, murals, statues, wall designs, balloons, flags, and inflatable tube men.
"Sign face" means the exterior surface of a sign exclusive of structural supports, on which is placed the sign copy.
"Sign permit" means an entitlement from the city to place or erect a sign. "Sign structure" means the structural supports, uprights and bracing for a sign. "Site" means the area of the lot to be developed.
"Temporary sign" means any sign constructed of wood, paper, cloth, canvas, or other similar lightweight material, with or without frames, and all others including painted windows intended to be displayed for a limited period of time. A typical example of a temporary sign is a yard sale sign.
"Under-canopy sign" means a sign suspended beneath a projecting canopy, walkway cover, awning, ceiling, or marquee.
"Wall sign" means a sign, which is attached to, erected on, painted on, or otherwise affixed to the exterior wall of a building or structure so that the face of the sign is approximately parallel to the building's exterior wall and exposed to the building's exterior side. Signs or advertising displays in or on windows are not wall signs.

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"Temporary window sign" means a sign printed on paper, cardboard, wood, or other temporary material, affixed to, or displayed flush against a window or located within a distance equal to the greatest dimension of the window (either width or height) and designed to be viewed from the outside of the building in which the window is located; it also includes paint applied directly to the window. A typical example is a paper poster that is taped to the inside of a store window.
"Window sign" means a graphic or opaque surface etched or permanently applied onto a window. A typical example is a thin plastic film applied to a window such that it almost appears to be part of the window itself.

17.26.040 - Applicability/general rules.

A. Applicability. This chapter applies to all existing and proposed signs to be located within the city.

B. Types of signs. There are three main types of signs: permanent, semipermanent, and temporary.

C. General rule. No person shall erect, place, modify, or maintain any sign except as authorized by this chapter. To ensure compliance with this chapter, a sign permit shall be required for any sign, except as provided herein.

D. Other permits required. Even if a given sign is exempted from the sign permit requirements of this chapter, the sign is still subject to all other applicable requirements of this code, including, but not limited to, grading, plumbing, electrical, building, fire, encroachment, and similar safety requirements.

17.26.050 - General policies.

The following policies, principles, rules, and regulations apply to all signs within the regulatory scope of this chapter, and to all provisions of this chapter, notwithstanding any more specific provisions to the contrary:

A. Message neutrality. It is the city's policy to regulate signs in a viewpoint-neutral and/or content-neutral manner. The message of the sign shall not be reviewed except to the minimum extent necessary to identify the type of sign.

B. Administrative interpretations. All administrative and quasi-adjudicative interpretations of this chapter are to be exercised in light of the city's message neutrality policy. Where a particular type of sign is proposed in a permit application, and the type is neither expressly allowed nor prohibited by this chapter, or whenever a sign does not qualify as a "structure" as defined in the building code, then the director and/or the city council, as applicable, shall approve, conditionally approve, or disapprove the application based on the most similar sign type that is expressly regulated by this chapter.

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C. Message substitution. Subject to the owner's consent, a non-commercial message of any type or content may be substituted for any allowed commercial message or any allowed non-commercial message, provided that the sign structure or mounting device is legal without consideration of message content. Such substitution of message may be made without any additional approval or permitting. This provision prevails over any more specific provision to the contrary within this chapter. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of commercial speech over non-commercial speech or favoring of any particular non-commercial message over any other non-commercial message.

This provision does not create a right to increase the total amount of signage on a parcel or lot; it does not create a right of substitution of one commercial message in place of another; it does not create a right to display an off-site commercial message sign, and it does not affect the requirement that a sign structure or mounting device be properly permitted.

D. More rigorous standards prevail. Where a matter of interpretation arises regarding the provisions of this chapter, the more specific definition or more rigorous standard shall prevail. Whenever the planning director determines that the application of any provision of this chapter is uncertain, the issue shall be referred to the city council for determination.

17.26.060 - Signs prohibited in all zones.

Except as otherwise permitted by this chapter, the following signs are prohibited in all zones:

A. Any sign not in accordance with the provisions of this chapter; B. Abandoned signs;
C. Advertising vehicles;
D. Signs affixed to vehicles parked on private property which collectively exceed two square feet, or two linear feet in any dimension;
E. Commercial flags;
F. Animated or flashing signs within 25 feet of or projecting into any public right-of- way;
G. Portable commercial signs;
H. Off-premises signs;
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1. Signs which identify or advertise activities which are illegal under federal, state, or local laws in effect at the location of such signs or activities; J. Building-mounted signs placed on or above the roof or above the eave line of any structure;
K. Signs which purport to be, are an imitation of, or resemble an official traffic sign or signal;
L. Signs which, by reason of their size, location, movement, content, coloring, or manner of illumination may be confused with or construed as a traffic-control sign, signal or device, or the light of an emergency vehicle, or which obstruct the visibility of any traffic or street sign or signal device;
M. Signs that create a potential safety hazard by obstructing a clear view between any combination of vehicles and/or pedestrians;
N. Balloon signs, inflatable animal or other figures, or other inflatable displays, whether tethered or not, except as otherwise permitted by a sign permit; O. Neon signs, except those specifically approved as an activity's major identification sign;
P. Signs drawn or painted onto or otherwise affixed to trees or rocks unless specifically permitted in this chapter;
Q. Advertising statuaries;
R. Translucent or transparent signs on internally illuminated awnings so that they allow light to shine through the letters of the copy;
S. Any signs not specifically allowed in this chapter.

17.26.070 - Exempt signs.

Notwithstanding Section 17.26.060 (Signs prohibited in all zones), the following signs are not subject to this chapter.

A. Unseen signs. Signs which are designed and located such that they can be viewed exclusively from within a building or an enclosed outdoor area.

B. Official notices. Official notices issued by any court or public body or officer and notices posted by any public officer in the performance of a public duty or by any person giving legal notice.

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C. Public safety signs. Directional, warning, or informational signs required by or authorized by law or by a governmental authority, including signs necessary for the operation and safety of public utility uses.

D. City signs. Signs installed, owned, controlled, or maintained by the city and signs displaying information to the public on behalf of the city.

E. Directional pavement markings. Markings on pavement which are solely directional.

17.26.080 - No sign permit required.

Notwithstanding Section 17.26.040 (Applicability/general rules), the following signs do not require a sign permit. However, such signs must still comply with all other requirements of this chapter and all other legal requirements.

Neither their sign area nor the number of signs shall be included in the calculation of the aggregate sign area or number of signs permitted for any premises or use.

A. Signs in any zone except residential. Newspaper stand identification. Maximum three square feet. No illumination.

B. Residential zones.

1. One permanent sign. One permanent sign, or a collection of permanent signs which work together, which collectively do not exceed two square feet. Such sign(s) shall be affixed to the primary structure. A typical example is a sign showing the numerical street address.

2. Flags. One building-mounted non-commercial flag no larger than five feet in length or three feet in width.

3. Vehicular directional signs. Vehicular directional signs solely used to identify street entrances and exits. Such signs may be building-mounted or free standing. Each sign may not exceed three square feet. Each sign may be illuminated.

4. For sale signs. Consistent with California Civil Code section 713, one freestanding sign per street frontage installed in plain view of the public which advertises the following: (a) that the property is for sale, lease, or exchange by the owner or his or her agent; (b) directions to the property; (c) the owner's or agent's name; (d) the owner's or agent's address and telephone number. Each sign may not exceed eight square feet and may not exceed four feet in height.

Such signs shall not be illuminated.

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5. Temporary non-commercial signs. The owner or occupant, or other party with the permission of the owner and/or occupant, may display temporarily signage displaying any non-commercial message subject to the following rules:
a. The height of an individual sign shall not exceed six feet. b. The total square footage of signs displayed under this section shall not exceed eight square feet.
c. If temporary signs posted under this section pertain to a specific event, they shall be taken down within seven days after the event occurs. d. The sign shall not be displayed for a period of more than 90 days.

6. Temporary signs displayed during one-time event. The owner or occupant of a residential parcel may also display an additional temporary sign containing any commercial or non-commercial message for up to 72 hours during the occurrence of a one-time event held at the property. In no event may the sign be displayed within 24 hours after the one-time event has concluded.

C. Commercial and industrial zones.

1. Temporary window signs. Temporary window signs fronting on a street, parking lot or common on-site area, not covering more than 50 percent of the area of the window(s) within which they are placed for a period not to exceed 14 days not more than four times per calendar year, with a minimum of 30 days between each placement. If a temporary window sign is painted directly onto the window, then instead of 14 days, the temporary window sign may be placed for a period not to exceed 45 days. No more than three signs per elevation with windows may be installed at any one time.

2. One building-mounted sign. One building mounted sign within 30 feet of the main entrance. Such sign shall not exceed four square feet, and shall not exceed three feet in any dimension, and shall not be installed at any location in excess of six feet from the ground. Such signs shall not be directly illuminated.

3. Up to six permanent signs. Up to six additional signs per premises. Such signs collectively cannot exceed three square feet and must be either building- mounted or window-mounted. Such signs shall not be illuminated.

4. Up to two temporary non-commercial signs. Up to two non-commercial temporary signs per property. The sign area for such signs may not exceed four square feet each. A typical example is a sign regarding an upcoming election.

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5. One for sale sign. Consistent with California Civil Code section 713, one freestanding sign per street frontage to a maximum of one sign per parcel installed in plain view of the public which advertises the following: (a) that the property is for sale, lease, or exchange by the owner or his or her agent; (b) directions to the property; (c) the owner's or agent's name; (d) the owner's or agent's address and telephone number. Such sign may not exceed 32 square feet or have any side exceed eight feet. Such sign shall not be illuminated.

17.26.090 - How area and height are measured.

A. How sign area is measured. Sign area is measured as follows:

1. Basic rule. Sign size or area is the entire area of the sign face, including nonstructural perimeter trim but excluding structures or uprights on which the sign is supported.

2. Window signs. Temporary window sign area is the entire area of any sign placed on or inside a window and not painted directly on the glass. For signs applied directly on the glass (e.g., plastic film onto the glass), area measurements are the same as for wall signs.

3. Wall signs. The area of signs composed of individual letters affixed to a building or freestanding wall is the area which encloses all copy, logos, and graphics with four, six, or eight perpendicular lines.

4. Double-faced signs. If a sign is double-faced with only one face visible from any ground position at one time, its sign area is the area of either face taken separately. Thus, if the maximum permitted sign area is twenty square feet, a double-faced sign may have an area of twenty square feet per face.

5. Three-dimensional signs. If a sign has three or more faces, its sign area is the sum of the areas of each individual face. Thus, if a sign has four faces and the maximum permitted sign area is twenty square feet, the maximum allowable area for each face is five square feet.

6. Separated-panel signs. The sign area of open or separated panel signs (i.e., those signs having empty spaces between copy panels) is the entire area encompassed by the sign face, including the empty spaces between panels.

B. How sign height is measured. Sign height is measured as follows:

1. Building-mounted signs. The height of building-mounted signs is measured from the average finished grade directly beneath the sign.

2. Freestanding signs. The height of a freestanding sign is measured from the top of the curb of the nearest street (or the edge of pavement of such street where Ordinance No. 923-23

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there is no curb) to the highest point of the surface of the sign or any vertical projection thereof, including supporting columns and/or design elements.

However, if the director reasonably determines that a freestanding sign is not oriented to any particular street or is too far from such a street to reasonably apply the foregoing standard, sign height is measured from the average finished grade at the base of the sign.

17.26.100 - Sign regulations applicable in all zones.

A. Prohibited sign locations.

1. Setback from street and intersections. No freestanding sign may be within five feet of a street right-of-way nor within a corner cutoff area identified in Section

17.12.050 (Intersection Visibility).

2. No off-premises signs. All signs shall be located on the same premises as the land use or activity identified by the sign, unless specifically permitted to be off premises in this chapter.

3. Distance from utility lines. No sign shall be closer to overhead utility lines than the distance prescribed by California law or by the rules duly promulgated by agencies of the state or by the applicable public utility.

4. Public right-of-way. No sign shall be located on or within or project over or across a public right-of-way, including public streets, sidewalks, parkways, medians, and rights-of-way, unless specifically permitted in this chapter and a sign permit has been obtained. Any sign located on, within, or over a public- right-of-way in violation of this section may be summarily removed by the city.

5. Public safety. No sign shall obstruct the use of sidewalks, walkways and bike lanes and no sign shall obstruct free and clear vision of pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

6. On public property. Except as authorized by law, signs may not be placed on or attached to any public property including city landscaping, stop signs, traffic signals, poles in the right-of-way, or fixtures in public parks. Any sign located on public property in violation of this section may be summarily removed by the

7. On utility property. Except as authorized by law, signs may not be placed on or attached to any utility owned property, including any utility poles.

B. Illumination. Illumination from or upon any sign shall not be directed upward, or towards any motorist or pedestrian. In addition, illumination from or upon any sign shall be shaded or shielded, such that it does not create glare, undue brightness or otherwise constitute a safety hazard. "Undue brightness" is illumination in Ordinance No. 923-23

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excess of that which is reasonably necessary to make the sign reasonably visible to the average person on an adjacent street.

C. Maintenance. Any sign displayed within the city, together with supports, braces, guys, anchors, and electrical components, shall be maintained in good physical condition, including the replacement of defective parts. Exposed surfaces shall be kept clean, in good repair and painted where paint is required.

D. Landscaping of freestanding signs. All permanent freestanding signs shall include, as part of their design, landscaping and/or landscaping about their base to prevent vehicles from hitting the sign, to improve the overall appearance of the installation, and to screen light fixtures and other appurtenances. Minimum landscape area at the base of freestanding signs shall be a minimum of twice the aggregate area of the freestanding sign or combination of signs. The property owner shall maintain all landscape areas in a healthy and viable condition.

E. Engineering. Sign poles and/or sign canisters shall be subject to engineering requirements. Prior to the reuse of an existing pole sign or sign canister, the structural integrity must be confirmed by a property licensed California Engineer.

17.26.110 - Permanent signs in multiple-family residential zones.

If a lot has a multiple-family dwelling structure on the lot, and the lot is zoned to allow multiple-family dwellings, the following permanent non-commercial signs are allowed with a sign permit. Each of the signs, if illuminated, may be only indirectly illuminated. No dimension of any such sign may exceed six feet. No portion of any such sign may be further than six feet from the ground. If the sign is attached to a wall, no portion of the sign may exceed the height of the wall.

A. One building-mounted or freestanding sign (e.g., complex ID). Either one building- mounted or one freestanding sign. Up to two signs per entry are allowed (but only one per entry if the sign is double faced). The sign area for each sign may not exceed 24 square feet. A typical example is a sign which names the residential complex.

B. One entrance sign for pedestrian traffic (e.g., directional). Either one building- mounted or one freestanding sign per entrance to the residential complex. Such sign must be within 30 feet of the entrance and must be oriented to pedestrian traffic. The sign area may not exceed nine square feet. A typical example is a sign which gives directions to unit numbers.

C. One freestanding vehicular entrance sign (e.g., directional). One freestanding sign per vehicular entrance to the residential complex. Such sign must be within 30 feet of the entrance and oriented to vehicular traffic. The sign area may not exceed nine square feet. A typical example is a sign which gives directions to unit numbers.

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D. One permanent sign (e.g., rental information). For lots containing 15 or more dwelling units, one permanent sign per street frontage. Such sign area may not exceed six square teet. A typical example is a sign which provides rental information.

E. Three additional permanent signs. Up to one free-standing and two building- mounted permanent signs which collectively do not have a sign area exceeding 24 square feet.

17.26.120 - Permanent signs in agricultural, commercial, and industrial zones.

A. The following permanent signs are allowed in agricultural, commercial, and industrial zones, with a sign permit.

1. Freestanding signs (e.g., complex ID). One freestanding sign per street frontage. A typical example names the shopping center or complex. The maximum sign area is 0.25 square feet per linear foot of street frontage up to a maximum of 96 square feet. The sign height shall not exceed 50 feet, except that if the lot fronts on the Interstate-10 freeway, the maximum height is 75 feet.

Illumination, if any, may be direct or indirect. Letters shall be a minimum of 10 inches in height. Aggregate sign area may not be combined among street frontage.

2. Building-mounted signs for tenants (e.g., tenant ID). For each separate business on the lot, one permanent building-mounted sign which is mounted flush with the building. Maximum height is eight feet. The maximum sign area is one square foot per linear foot of tenant frontage. Illumination, if any, may be direct or indirect. For purposes of this subsection, "tenant frontage" means the width of tenant space, measured in linear feet, facing a parking lot, public street, or private street.

3. Building-mounted signs. Up to two building-mounted signs per building (maximum one per side of building). The maximum sign area is one square foot per linear foot of street frontage. Each sign shall be installed within two feet of the top of the face of a building, and if that is not possible, the place closest to the top of the face. Illumination, if any, may be direct or indirect.

4. Under-canopy signs. For each separate business on the lot, up to one under- canopy sign. Such sign is allowed only if the business fronts a parking lot or a street. The sign area shall not exceed three square feet. Sign illumination is prohibited.

5. Pedestrian entrance signs (e.g., directional). Either one building-mounted or one freestanding sign per entrance to a multi-tenant commercial building or multi-building complex. Such sign must be within 30 feet of the entrance and be oriented to pedestrian traffic. The sign height may not exceed the height of Ordinance No. 923-23

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the wall on which it is mounted or six feet if the sign is freestanding and the sign area may not exceed 18 square feet. A typical example is a sign which gives directions to unit numbers. Illumination, if any, may be direct or indirect.

6. Window signs. One window sign per window. Must be permanently applied or affixed to the inside of the glass.

B. Maximum number of signs. The maximum number of signs permitted is four per business, with no more than two signs per building side.

C. Aggregate sign area. Maximum permissible aggregate sign area shall be based on lot size, as follows:

1. If the lot size is up to 6,000 square feet, the aggregate sign area shall not exceed 50 square feet.

2. If the lot size is between 6,001 and 12,000 square feet, the aggregate sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet.

3. If the lot size is between 12,001 and 24,000 square feet, the aggregate sign area shall not exceed 150 square feet.

4. If the lot size is between 24,001 and 36,000 square feet, the aggregate sign area shall not exceed 200 square feet.

5. If the lot size is 36,001 square feet or greater in size, the aggregate sign area shall not exceed 250 square feet.

17.26.130 - Signs in downtown area.

The following additional requirements apply in the downtown area.

A. Design guidelines. Signs within the downtown area shall meet the requirements set forth in this chapter and the downtown design guidelines adopted by the city.

B. Prohibited signs. Rotating, revolving, or moving signs are prohibited in the downtown area.

17.26.140 - Billboards along interstate-10 freeway.

A. Billboards allowed with Caltrans and sign permit. Billboards are allowed adjacent to the Interstate-10 freeway in the locations specified by this section with a sign permit, provided that the California Department of Transportation has first issued a permit pursuant to the Outdoor Advertising Act. All billboards shall comply with all requirements of the Outdoor Advertising Act and regulations.

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B. Location restrictions. Billboards may only be placed in the commercial and industrial zones. Billboards are prohibited in the area extending from Lovekin Boulevard to Intake Boulevard, between Chanslor Way and 14th Avenue.

17.26.150 - Specific uses.

A. Religious assembly, institutional uses, theaters, cinemas, and cabarets.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code to the contrary, if a religious assembly, institutional use, theater, cinema, or cabaret is allowed in the zone, then, at minimum, the following signs are allowed for such uses with a sign permit. To the extent that a zone may allow additional signage, then such additional signage is also allowed. Sign illumination, if any, may be direct or indirect.

1. One freestanding sign. One freestanding sign not to exceed the allowable height for such signs in the zone in which it is located.

2. Two building-mounted signs. Up to two building-mounted signs which do not exceed the allowed height and size for such signs in the zone in which it is located. One of the allowed signs may include an attraction board.

3. Additional building-mounted signs. One building-mounted sign per screen or stage. Maximum sign area is eight square feet per sign. Illumination, if any, must be indirect.

B. Gas stations. The signs referenced in subsections A and C of section 17.50.080 ("Signs") of Chapter 17.50 (Automobile Service Stations) require a sign permit, but the posterboard signs authorized in subsection B do not require a sign permit. No sign permit will be issued in violation of Chapter 17.50.

17.26.160 - Art murals on private property.

A. Purposes.

1. These regulations relating to original art murals further the following purposes:
a. Encouraging artistic expression;
b. Fostering a sense of pride;
c. Preventing vandalism at mural sites through the installation of murals that vandals are reluctant to disturb; and
d. Preserving existing murals that are a valued part of the history of the city of Blythe.

2. The city wishes to encourage the installation of murals and, at the same time, Ordinance No. 923-23

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prevent the proliferation of off-site commercial signs. Therefore, the city's mural regulations exclude commercial advertising on murals to prevent the installation of the equivalent of an off-site commercial sign on a mural. This restriction on commercial advertising is intended to work in tandem with the limitations of off-site commercial signs to designated areas in the city. Both the limitation on zones and the exclusion of commercial advertising on murals are supported by the United States Supreme Court's ruling in Metromedia, Inc. V.

City of San Diego, 453 U.S. 490 (1981). In Metromedia, the Supreme Court ruled that cities may ban off-site commercial signs. The Supreme Court also ruled that cities can carve out exemptions to such a ban for non-commercial signs and on-site commercial signs.

3. These mural regulations also promote public safety and welfare by regulating such displays in keeping with the following objectives:
a. That the design, construction, installation, repair, and maintenance of such displays will not interfere with traffic safety or otherwise endanger public safety.
b. That the regulations will provide reasonable protection to the visual environment by controlling the size, height, spacing, and location of such displays.
c. That the public will enjoy the aesthetic benefits of being able to view such displays in numbers and sizes that are reasonably and appropriately regulated without having to endure visual blight and traffic safety impacts that would be caused by such displays that are not reasonably and appropriately regulated.
d. That consideration will be given to equalizing the opportunity for messages to be displayed.
•. Triaout dominiof thesisual appearance with aravailable to sign users f. That the regulations will conform to judicial decisions, thereby limiting further costly litigation and facilitating enforcement of these regulations.

B. Permit required. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to authorize, erect, construct, maintain, move, alter, change, place, suspend, or attach any art mural within the city without first obtaining an art mural permit.

C. Application and review procedures.

1. Authority to adopt administrative rules. The city manager is authorized to adopt art mural administrative rules implementing this section. The city manager is Ordinance No. 923-23

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further authorized to specify art mural permit application requirements and art mural review procedures consistent with the requirements of this section.

2. Application requirements. An application for an art mural permit shall be submitted to the development services department to be assessed for compliance with the requirements of this section. An application for an art mural permit shall be submitted with applicable application fees, as established by resolution of the city council. The planning director shall have the authority to determine whether or not an application for an art mural permit meets all of the applicable permit application requirements.

3. Planning and art in public places committee review. Upon a determination by the planning director that an application for an art mural permit is complete and meets all applicable art mural requirements under this section, then the art mural permit application shall be forwarded to the art in public places committee for review and recommendations. The art in public places committee shall recommend that the city council approve any art mural satisfying the requirements of this section.

4. City council review. The city council shall have final approval authority on an art mural permit application.

D. Mural regulations. Art murals shall meet the requirements of this section. An art mural satisfying these requirements and complying with applicable city permit application and review procedures will be issued an art mural permit following review by the city council.

1. No part of a mural shall exceed the height of the structure to which it is tiled, painted, or affixed.

2. No part of a mural shall extend more than six inches from the plane of the wall upon which it is tiled, painted, or affixed.

3. No part of a mural shall exceed a height of 25 feet above grade.

4. No mural may depict obscene or defamatory content.

5. No mural may contain commercial messages. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, advertising for goods or services, corporate logos, sponsorship logos, the name and/or logo of a recognizable entity, copyright, or trademark information related to a business or commercial enterprise of any kind.

6. No mural may consist of, or contain, electrical or mechanical components, or changing images, which are defined as moving structural elements, flashing or sequential lights, lighting elements, or other automated methods that result in movement, the appearance of movement, or change of mural image or Ordinance No. 923-23

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message, not including static illumination turned off and back on not more than once every 24 hours.

7. No mural, except for murals consisting completely of paint, shall be placed over the exterior surface of any building opening, including, but not limited to, windows, doors, and vents. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a mural consisting of paint or any other material permitted under this section may be placed on roll down security doors on a commercial or industrial building.

8. No mural shall be placed on residential building containing fewer than five residential dwelling units.

9. No mural shall be placed on a lot located other than in the agriculture, medium- density residential, high-density residential, public/quasi-public, commercial, and industrial zones.

10. If illuminated, lighting shall be so arranged as to reflect away from adjoining property or any public way and so as not to cause a nuisance either to street or highway traffic or to the living environment.

11. Digitally printed image murals shall receive approval from the building department.

12. Any murals not authorized by this section are prohibited.

E. Maintenance. Murals shall be maintained through repair, paint, or any necessary treatment so as to prevent decay. Defective or insufficient weather protection for exterior treatments and facades, including faded paint or materials and graffiti, shall be promptly addressed, and repaired or stabilized to prevent further deterioration.

F. Grandfathering of art murals. Any art mural installed prior to the effective date of this section shall have legal nonconforming status and shall not be required to obtain an art mural permit under this section but shall be maintained as required by this section.

17.26.170 - Semipermanent signs.

A. Maximum time periods. No semipermanent sign shall be posted for more than one year. In addition, all semipermanent signs shall be removed within 10 days after the occurrence of the event, if any, which is the subject of the semipermanent sign.

For example, a semipermanent sign advertising the future construction of a facility on the lot or site shall be removed within 10 days after the facility has received a certificate of occupancy, and a model home complex identification sign shall be removed within 10 days after the model homes are completed and sold. The date Ordinance No. 923-23

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of posting and permit number shall be permanently and legibly marked on the lower right-hand corner of the face of the sign.

B. Maximum sign area. Semipermanent signs may not exceed 32 square feet in area with no dimension exceeding eight feet. The aggregate area of all semipermanent signs on a lot shall not exceed 64 square feet.

C. Maximum height. Freestanding semipermanent signs shall not exceed eight feet in height. Semipermanent signs which are posted, attached, or affixed to multiple- floor buildings shall not be placed higher than the finished floor line of the second floor of such buildings and such signs posted, attached, or affixed to single-floor buildings shall not be higher than the eave line or top of wall of the building.

D. Maximum number. In no case shall the number of semipermanent signs on any lot or site exceed 10.

E. Placement restrictions. Semipermanent signs may not be posted in violation of any provision of this chapter or this code.

F. Temporary commercial signs prohibited. Temporary commercial signs may not be posted on sites approved for semipermanent signs unless specifically authorized by the semipermanent sign permit.

G. Time extensions. Prior to the expiration of the permit, the permittee may apply for a time extension of up to one year. The planning director shall approve the application for an extension of time upon determining that the semipermanent sign is otherwise in compliance with the requirements of this section and that the time extension is necessary to accomplish the purposes for which the semipermanent sign has been posted.

H. Maintenance semipermanent signs. All semipermanent signs shall be maintained in a state of security, safety, and good repair.

17.26.180 - Temporary signs.

All temporary signs must comply with the provisions of this chapter, including the standards set forth in this section.

A. Sign permit required. Except as set forth in this chapter, a sign permit is required for any temporary sign.

B. Maximum time periods. Except as set forth in this section, no temporary sign shall be posted for more than 60 consecutive days nor shall such temporary sign or sigr displaying similar messages regarding the same event, if any, which is the subjec! of such temporary sign be re-posted upon the same site, or any site which is visible from the original site, within 90 days of the removal of the original temporary sign.

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C. Maximum sign area. Temporary signs placed on private commercial and industrial property may not exceed 32 square feet in area with no dimension exceeding eight feet. The aggregate area of all temporary signs maintained on any lot may not exceed 32 square feet.

D. Maximum height. Temporary signs which are posted, attached or affixed to private multiple-floor buildings shall not be placed higher than eight feet or the finished floor line of the second floor of such buildings, whichever is less, and temporary signs which are posted, attached or affixed to private single-floor buildings shall not be higher than the eave line or top of wall of the building. All heights shall be measured to the highest point of the surface of the sign.

E. Maximum number. In no case shall the total number of temporary signs for any permit exceed fifty.

F. Placement restrictions. Temporary signs shall be placed no less than 200 feet apart from identical or substantially similar temporary signs and shall not be visible simultaneously with the boundaries of the city.

G. Maintenance of temporary signs. All temporary signs shall be maintained in a state of security, safety, and good repair.

H. Banners. A banner is allowed upon temporary sign permit approval on each building street frontage within six months of the business opening. The banner shall consist of lightweight fabric or similar material attached to the building wall below the eave line for a period not to exceed 60 days. The banner shall not be illuminated and its size shall not exceed 32 square feet. Under no circumstances shall banners be utilized as permanent business signage.

17.26.190 - Portable signs.

One A-frame sign is allowed per business in commercial zones upon portable sign permit approval, subject to the following requirements:

A. Maximum sign area and height. A-frame signs shall not exceed three feet in width or four feet in height.

B. Location restrictions. A-frames must be placed directly adjacent to the individual business to which the portable sign permit is issued. A-frame signs shall not be placed within five feet of any public street or within five feet of the corner cutoff area identified in Section 17.12.050 (Intersection Visibility).

C. Clearance. There must be a minimum six-foot clearance path of travel between the edge of any A-frame sign and any obstruction in the sidewalk such as street signs, light poles, fire hydrants and news racks.

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D. Daily placement and removal. A-frame signs may only be placed in the public right- of-way when the establishment is actually open to the public for business. A-frame signs shall be removed from the sidewalk at the end of every business day.

E. Indemnification. A permittee for a portable sign permit for an A-frame sign shall be required to indemnify, defend, with attorneys of the city's choosing, and hold harmless the city, its city council, officers, and employees from and against any and all claims, demands, obligations, damages, actions, causes of action, suits, losses, judgments, liabilities, costs, and expenses, including without limitation, attorneys' fees and court costs, of every kind and nature whatsoever which may arise in connection with the permittee's sign.

17.26.200 - Sign permit review procedures.

A. Permanent signs-sign permit.

1. Applicability. A permanent sign permit is required for all permanent signs prior to erection or placement, unless otherwise exempted by this chapter.

2. Approval authority. The designated approving authority for sign permits is the director.

3. Approval determination. A sign permit shall be granted when the director determines the proposal to be in conformance with all applicable provisions of this chapter and with all other applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

B. Semipermanent-sign permit.

1. Applicability. A semipermanent sign permit is required for all semipermanent signs prior to erection or placement, unless otherwise exempted by this chapter.

2. Approval authority. The designated approval authority for all semipermanent signs shall be the director.

3. Approval determination. A semipermanent sign permit shall be granted if the director determines the proposal complies with this chapter and all other applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

C. Temporary sign-sign permit.

1. Applicability. A temporary sign permit is required for all temporary signs prior to erection or placement, unless otherwise exempted by this chapter.

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2. Approval authority. The designated approval authority for all temporary signs shall be the director.

3. Approval determination. A temporary sign permit shall be granted if the director determines the proposal complies with this chapter and all other applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

D. Portable sign-sign permit.

1. Applicability. A portable sign permit is required for all portable signs prior to erection or placement, unless otherwise exempted by this chapter.

2. Approval authority. The designated approval authority for all portable signs shall be the director.

3. Approval determination. A portable sign permit shall be granted if the director determines the proposal complies with this chapter and all other applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

E. Submission materials. The following shall be submitted by the applicant to the development services department at the time of permit application unless otherwise modified by the director:

1. Application. Completed sign application obtained from the city;

2. Fees. Appropriate fees as established by city council resolution;

3. Consent. Written authorization from the property owner, or lessor, or authorized agent of the building or premises upon which the sign is to be erected;

4. Semipermanent, temporary, and portable signs - statement of responsibility.

Each application for a semipermanent, temporary, or portable sign permit shall include a statement of responsibility certifying a natural person who will be responsible for removing each sign for which a permit is issued by the date removal is required, and who will reimburse the city for any costs incurred by the city in removing each such sign which violates the provisions of this chapter;

5. Plans. Sign plans with number of copies and exhibits as required in the application. Such plans must include the following information:
a. Sign elevation. Sign elevation drawing indicating overall and letter/figure/design dimensions, colors, materials, proposed copy, and illumination method.

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b. Location depiction. Site plan indicating the location of all main and accessory signs existing or proposed for the site with dimensions, color, material, copy and method of illumination indicated for each, and c. Building elevations. Building elevations with signs depicted (for building- mounted signs).

F. Sign application procedures.

1. Application. An application for a permanent sign permit, semipermanent sign permit, temporary sign permit, or portable sign permit shall be made on the forms) prescribed by the development services department.

2. Review and approval. The planning director or other authorized staff member shall review standard sign applications and shall either approve, approve with modification(s), or deny the application. The application for a sign permit shall be approved if the proposed sign is consistent with the requirements of this chapter.

G. Planned sign programs.

1. Planned sign program. Planned sign program review per the provisions of this subsection is required for submissions which:
a. Include three or more permanent signs,
b. Are in conjunction with review of a site development project by the planning director, or
c. Include a request for a sign adjustment to a sign previously approved under a planned sign program.

2. Determination. The planning director shall either approve, approve with modifications, or deny planned sign program applications.

3. Conditions. The planning director, upon completion of his or her review, may attach appropriate conditions to any sign program approval. To approve a planned sign program, the planning director must determine that:
a. The sign program is consistent with the purpose and intent of this chapter; and
b. The sign program is in harmony with and visually related to:

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i. All signs within the planned sign program, via the incorporation of several common design elements such as materials, letter style, colors, illumination, sign type or sign shape.
il. The buildings they identify. This may be accomplished by utilizing materials, colors, or design motif included in the building being identified. ili. Surrounding development. Implementation of the planned sign program will not adversely affect surrounding land uses or obscure adjacent conforming signs.

4. Modifications to sign program. Modification of signs within a previously approved sign program shall be reviewed and approved by the planning director under the same procedures as review of a new planned sign program.

H. Sign adjustments. Adjustments to planned sign programs to permit additional sign area, additional numbers of signs, an alternative sign location, an alternative type of signage, new illumination or additional height may be granted by the planning director if such adjustments are consistent with this chapter. Applications for sign adjustments shall be submitted in writing to the planning director. The planning director may approve a sign adjustment if the planning director determines the adjustment is necessary based on one or more of the following reasons:

1. Additional area.
a. To overcome a disadvantage as a result of an exceptional setback between the street and the sign or orientation of the sign location; b. To achieve an effect which is essentially architectural, sculptural, or graphic art;
c. To permit more sign area in a single sign than is allowed, where a more orderly and concise pattern of signing will result;
d. To allow a sign to be in proper scale with its building or use; e. To allow a sign compatible with other conforming signs in the vicinity; f. To establish the allowable amount and location of signing when no street frontage exists or when, due to an unusual lot shape (e.g., flag lot), the street frontage is excessively narrow in proportion to the average width of the lot.

2. Additional number. To compensate for inadequate visibility, or to facilitate good design balance.

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3. Alternative locations.
a. To transfer area from one wall to another wall or to a freestanding sign upon determining that such alternative location is necessary to overcome a disadvantage caused by an unfavorable orientation of the front wall to the street or parking lot or an exceptional setback;
b. To permit the placement of a sign on an access easement to a lot not having street frontage, at a point where viewable from the adjoining public street.

In addition to any other requirements, the applicant shall submit evidence of the legal right to establish and maintain a sign within the access easement;
c. Additionally, alternative on-site locations may be granted in order to further the intent and purposes of this chapter or where normal placement would conflict with the architectural design of a structure.

4. Alternative type of sign. To facilitate compatibility with the architecture of structure(s) on the site and improve the overall appearance on the site.

5. Additional height. To permit additional height to overcome a visibility disadvantage.

I. Disposition of plans.

1. When revisions to sign plans are required as a condition of approval, the applicant shall submit the required number of copies of the revised plans to the development services department to be stamped "Approved." The department will retain copies and a set will be returned to the applicant.

2. After approval is granted, it shall be the responsibility of the applicant to submit all required applications, plans, bonds, and fees to the building department for issuance of the building permit.

J. Sign permit expiration and time extensions.

1. Approval of a sign permit application or planned program application shall expire one year from its effective date unless the sign has been erected or a different expiration date is stipulated at the time of approval. Prior to the expiration of the approval, the applicant may apply to the director for an extension of up to one year from the date of expiration. The director may make minor modifications or may deny further extensions of the approved sign or signs at the time of extension if the director determines that there has been a substantial change in circumstances.

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2. The expiration date of the sign approval(s) shall automatically be extended to concur with the expiration date of building permits or other permits relating to the installation of the sign.

3. A sign approval shall expire and become void if the circumstances or facts upon which the approval was granted changes through some subsequent action by the owner or lessees such that the sign would not be permitted per this chapter under the new circumstances.

17.26.210 - Nonconforming signs.

A. Every legal sign in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, but which was in conformance with city sign regulations in effect prior to said effective date, shall be deemed a nonconforming sign and may be continued and maintained provided:

1. The sign is properly maintained and does not in any way endanger the public; and

2. The sign was covered by a valid permit or variance or complied with all applicable laws on the date of adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter; or

3. If the existing business(es) closes after adoption of the ordinance codified in this chapter, the new occupant or business will be required to comply with the requirements of this chapter.

B. No nonconforming sign shall be changed to another nonconforming sign, changed in any manner that increases the sign's noncompliance with the provisions of this chapter, nor expanded or structurally altered so as to extend its useful life. This restriction does not preclude change of sign copy or normal maintenance.

C. Any nonconforming sign which is damaged or destroyed beyond 50 percent of its value shall be removed or brought into conformity with the provisions of this chapter.

The determination whether a sign is damaged or destroyed beyond 50 percent of value shall rest with the planning director and shall be based upon the actual cost of replacing said sign.

D. The burden of establishing a sign as legally nonconforming under this section rests upon the person or persons, firm or corporation claiming legal status for a sign.

17.26.220 - Enforcement, sign removal and abatement.

A. Enforcement responsibility. The director shall enforce the provisions of this chapter.

B. Illegal signs. Any sign which does not have a required permit, which remains posted beyond the time limits set forth in this chapter or the applicable sign permit, which is a dangerto the public, or which otherwise violates applicable provisions of this chapter Ordinance No. 923-23

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is illegal. If the director determines a sign to be illegal, the director may order the property owner and/or sign owner to remove the sign or may require other actions to ensure compliance with this chapter.

C. Abatement of illegal and abandoned signs. Any illegal or abandoned sign is hereby declared to be a public nuisance, which may be abated in accordance with the nuisance abatement procedures set forth in Chapter 8.28 (Abatement of Public Nuisances) of this code or any other remedy available at law or in equity, including the alternative remedies set forth in Chapter 8.28 of this code.

D. Violations. Any person who violates the provisions of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punishable as provided in Chapter 1.24 of this code.

E. No city liability. Neither the city nor any of its agents shall be liable for any damage to a sign which is removed under this section.

F. Confiscated signs. If the city confiscates any signs for violation of this chapter, the city shall keep such signs in its possession to the extent required by California Civil Code section 2080 et seq. If the city still has such sign in its possession, the owner of such sign(s) may obtain such signs from the city after paying the city for its reasonable costs to impound such sign(s), which amount may be set by resolution of the city council.

17.26.230 - Appeals.

Any decision of the planning director made pursuant to this chapter may be appealed to the city council. The appeal shall be conducted in accordance with the following requirements:

A. Written request. Within 10 calendar days after the date of a decision of the planning director, an aggrieved party may appeal such action by filing a written appeal with the city clerk setting forth the reasons why the decision was not proper.

B. Appeal fee. At the time of filing, the appellant shall pay the designated appeal tee, as established by resolution of the city council.

C. Appeal hearing. Upon receipt of the written appeal, the city clerk shall set the matter for a hearing before the city council. The city council shall hear the matter de novo and shall conduct the hearing pursuant to the procedures set forth by the city. The appeal shall be held within a reasonable time after the filing of the appeal at the discretion of the city manager. At the hearing, the appellant may present any information they deem relevant to the decision appealed. The formal rules of evidence and procedure applicable in a court of law shall not apply to the hearing.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the city council may affirm, reverse, remand or modify the decision appealed. The decision of the city council shall be final and Ordinance No. 923-23

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judicial review thereof shall be subject to the provisions of Sections 1094.5 and 1094.6 of the California Code of Civil Procedure.

SECTION 3. Environmental Compliance. The City Council hereby finds that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption and implementation of this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The Ordinance is therefore exempt from the environmental review requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 4. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.

SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final passage.

SECTION 7. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 9th day of January, 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
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ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
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TINE FIRST

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Ordinance Prohibiting the Unlawful Possession of Catalytic Converters PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager, and Brittany E. Roberto, City Attorney
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 924- 23:

ORDINANCE NO. 924-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 9.94 (UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC CONVERTER) TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS AND WELFARE) OF THE BLYTHE

MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL

REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION) FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: Under existing laws,
found to be removed from a vehicle and in someone's possession unless a victim can be identified. On September 12, 2023, due to a rise in catalytic converter thefts throughout Riverside County, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance No. 987.

Ordinance No. '
Ordinance No. 987 establishes that it is unlav son ras yaperson to possesea catalytic converte Ordinance No. 987 provides that any person who violates the ordinance is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $1,000 or by imprisonment in the county jail for a term not exceeding one year, or both. In addition to criminal penalties, the ordinance provides for administrative civil penalties in the amount of $1,000 for the first offense, $2,000 for the second offense within a 36-month period, and $5,000 for any subsequent offenses within a 36-month period. The ordinance outlines that a person shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every catalytic converter in the person's possession that is not attached to a vehicle, unless the person has valid proof of ownership.

Ordinance No. 987 is only enforceable in the unincorporated areas of the County. The County shared the ordinance with all City Managers and Mayors in the County, in the event a city wishes to adopt Ordinance No. 987 by reference pursuant to California Government Code 88 50022.2 and 50022.3.

At the October 10, 2023 Council meeting, the Council provided direction to staff to prepare an ordinance similar to Ordinance No. 987. Pursuant to Council's direction, staff prepared Ordinance No. 924-23. On December 12, 2023, the Council introduced Ordinance No. 924- -106-

23. STAFF REPORT: Ordinance No. 924-23 largely mirrors the County's ordinance. It makes it unlawful to possess a catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle unless the person has valid documentation to verify that the person is in lawful possession of the catalytic converter. It also makes it unlawful to falsify any information in any documentation intended to show lawful possession of a catalytic converter.

The proposed Ordinance mirrors the County's penalty provisions, providing for criminal and/ or admınıstrative penalties, including administrative fines of $1,000 for the first violation, $2,000 for the second violation within 36 months, and $5,000 for each subsequent violation within 36 months.

Although thetts of catalytic converters have not been prevalent in Blythe, staff believes adopting an ordinance prohibiting the unlawful possession of catalytic converters could help deter future thefts and be a tool for law enforcement should prosecution of these thefts be necessary later.

Therefore, staff recommends that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 924-23.

ATTACHMENTS:

Ordinance No. 924-23
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ORDINANCE NO. 924-23

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW CHAPTER 9.94
(UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYTIC
CONVERTER) TO TITLE 9 (PUBLIC PEACE, MORALS

AND WELFARE) OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND

FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO
CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON

SENSE EXEMPTION)
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:

WHEREAS, the City of Blythe, pursuant to its police power, may enact regulations for the public peace, morals, and welfare of the City; and WHEREAS, the theft of catalytic converters has been an increasing problem in Riverside County in recent years; and
WHEREAS, in Riverside County, there were at least 200 reports of catalytic converter thefts in 2022 and, as of July 1, 2023, there were over 300 reports by victims; and
WHEREAS, the external location of catalytic converters and the use of valuable precious metals, including rhodium, palladium, and platinum, in catalytic converters makes these devices a target for thieves; and
WHEREAS, individuals in possession of stolen catalytic converters often recycle them for substantial profit, while victims of these thefts suffer the consequences of paying thousands of dollars in repairs, the inconvenience of repairing their vehicles, and feeling unsafe in the community; and
WHEREAS, finding the victim of these crimes is extremely difficult due to the manner in which the catalytic converter thefts occur and lack of identifying markers on catalytic converters to link a stolen catalytic converter to the victim; and WHEREAS, the inability to identify the victims of catalytic converter thefts can inhibit the ability to successfully prosecute individuals for the thefts; and WHEREAS, on September 12, 2023, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance No. 987 relating to the unlawful possession of a catalytic converter, which ordinance is enforceable in the unincorporated areas of Riverside County; and Ordinance No. 924-23

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WHEREAS, there are currently no City, State or Federal laws applicable within the City of Blythe to define and punish catalytic converter thefts absent an identifiable victim; WHEREAS, there are currently no City, State or Federal laws applicable within the City of Blythe to define and punish the recycling or sale of unlawfully obtained catalytic converters, thus incentivizing criminal enterprise of catalytic converter thefts; and WHEREAS, there are currently no City, State or Federal laws applicable within the City of Blythe requiring individuals to provide proof to law enforcement as to how they obtained catalytic converters, thus limiting law enforcement's ability to (1) protect the public by preventing catalytic converter thefts, and (2) seize suspected stolen catalytic converters when no victim is present; and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance is necessary to provide the City of Blythe a means to protect the public, deter this criminal activity, and promote a productive use of Blythe Police Department staff resources by staff responsible for investigating catalytic converter thefts; and
WHEREAS, all legal requirements prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council finds that the recitals set forth above are true and correct.

SECTION 2. Amendment to Title 9. Title 9 (Public Peace, Moral and Welfare) is hereby amended to add a new Chapter 9.94 to read as follows:

Chapter 9.94 - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A CATALYIC CONVERTER

9.94.010 - Purpose.

The purpose and intent of this chapter is to deter the theft of catalytic converters throughout the city and to provide the city with reasonable means to address the impact on the community and the victims posed by catalytic converter thefts.

9.94.020 - Definitions.

The following words, terms and phrases when used in this chapter shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

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A. "Catalytic converter" means any exhaust emission control device, or portion thereof, that converts toxic gases and pollutants in exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine into less-toxic pollutants.

B. "Documentation or other proof" means written documents) clearly identifying the vehicle from which the catalytic converter originated based on the totality of the circumstances, which includes, but is not limited to, the following types of documents:

1. Bill of sale from original owner with photographs.

2. Verifiable documentation from an auto body shop proving the owner relinquished the catalytic converter to the auto body shop.

3. Verifiable electronic communication from the previous owner to the possessor relinquishing ownership of the catalytic converter.

4. Photographs of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter originated.

5. Vehicle registration associated with the catalytic converter containing an etched associated license plate number or vehicle identification number or driver's license number of registered vehicle owner.

C. "Lawful possession" means being the lawful owner of the catalytic converter or in possession of the catalytic converter with the lawful owner's written consent. It is not required to prove the catalytic converter was stolen to establish the possession is not a lawful possession.

9.94.030 - Unlawful possession of a catalytic converter.

A. Unlawful possession. It is unlawful for any person to possess any catalytic converter that is not attached to a vehicle unless the person has valid documentation or other proof to verify that the person is in lawful possession of the catalytic converter.

B. Evidence. Evidence of unlawful possession may be presumed by the number of detached catalytic converters within a person's possession and/or by the condition of the dismantled catalytic converters), including but not limited to, the manner a catalytic converter has been detached or cut from a vehicle.

C. Exception. This section does not apply to a detached catalytic converter that has been verifiably tested, certified, and labeled or otherwise approved for reuse, and is being bought or sold for purposes of reuse in accordance with the federal Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. § 7401 et seq.) and regulations under the Clean Air Act, as they may be amended from time to time.

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9.94.040 - Falsification of proof of ownership.

It is unlawful for any person to knowingly falsify or cause to be falsified any information in any documentation or other proof intended to show lawful possession of a catalytic converter.

9.94.050 - Violations; penalties.

A. Misdemeanor penalty. Any person who violates any provision of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment in the county jail for a term not exceeding one year, or by both. Upon any second or subsequent conviction of the offense, the person shall be punished by the penalties of a fine of one thousand dollars and by imprisonment in the county jail for one year.

B. State penalties apply. Nothing in this chapter shall be intended to limit any of the penalties provided for under California law, including, but not limited to, the Penal Code, with regard to the sale, use, possession, delivery, and/or receipt of catalytic converters.

C. Administrative penalties. Violation of this chapter may be punishable as a criminal offense or by the issuance of an administrative citation in accordance with Chapter

1.26 of this code. The administrative fine for violation of this chapter shall be as follows:

1. An administrative fine of one thousand dollars for the first violation;

2. An administrative fine of two thousand dollars for the second violation within 36 months; and

3. An administrative fine of five thousand dollars for each subsequent violation within 36 months.

D. Separate offenses. Acts, omissions, or conditions in violation of this chapter that continue, exist, or occur on more than one day constitute separate violations on each day. Violations continuing, existing, or occurring on the service date, the effective date, and each day between the service date and the effective date are separate violations. A person is guilty of a separate offense for each and every day or portion thereof during which he or she commits, continues, or permits a violation of this chapter. A person is deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every violation of this chapter, or any portion thereof. Likewise, a person shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each and every catalytic converter in the person's possession that is not attached to a vehicle unless the person has valid documentation or other proof of lawful possession of the catalytic converter.

Ordinance No. 924-23

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E. Non-exclusive remedies and penalties. All remedies and penalties for violations of the prohibitions in this chapter shall be cumulative and not exclusive. Enforcement by use of any administrative, criminal, or civil action, citation, or administrative proceeding or abatement remedy does not preclude the use of additional citations or other remedies as authorized by this code or law. Enforcement remedies may be employed concurrently or consecutively. Conviction and punishment of or enforcement against any person hereunder shall not relieve such person from the responsibility of correcting, removing, or abating a violation, nor prevent the enforced correction, removal, or abatement thereof.

SECTION 3. Environmental Compliance. The City Council hereby finds that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption and implementation of this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The Ordinance is therefore exempt from the environmental review requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 4. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.

SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final passage.

SECTION 7. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.

Ordinance No. 924-23

-112;
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 9th day of January, 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 924-23

-113,

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Ordinance Adding a New Section 2.40.030 Relating to Level I Reserve Police Officers
PRESENTED BY: Garth V. Dale, Chief of Police
PREPARED BY: Garth V. Dale, Chief of Police, and Brittany E. Roberto, City Attorney RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Council adopt Ordinance No. 928-23:

ORDINANCE NO. 928-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW SECTION 2.40.030 (RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS) TO CHAPTER 2.40 (RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OF TITLE 2 (ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL) OF THE

BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW

UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION)
FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: The Blythe Police Department Reserve Unit was established to supplement and assist regular sworn officers in their duties. Reserve officers provide professional, low-cost law enforcement services to augment regular staffing levels. The Blythe Police Department is working to expand the Reserve Unit to include reserve officers who have special skills, including boat patrol, criminal investigations, required course instructors and tactical expertise, and use the Reserve Unit as a way for reserve officers to get their foot in the door at the Blythe Police Department with the possibility of becoming a full-time officer in the future.

Reserve officers are required by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) regulations to meet the same selection standards as full-time officers.

The Legislature has established three levels of reserve peace officers:

Level III (California Penal Code sections 830.6(a)(1) and 832.6(a)(3)) Level III reserve officers may perform specified limited support duties, and other duties that are not likely to result in physical arrests, while supervised in the accessible vicinity by a Level I reserve officer or a full-time regular officer.

Level II (California Penal Code sections 830.6(a)(1) and 832.6(a)(2)) Level Il reserve officers may perform general law enforcement assignments while under the immediate supervision of a peace officer who has completed the Regular Basic Course. These officers may also work assignments authorized for Level III reserve officers without immediate supervision.
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Level I (California Penal Code sections 830.6(a)(1) and 832.6(a)(1) Level I reserve officers may work alone and perform the same duties as full-time regular officers.

Pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(2), the City may appoint a Level I reserve police officer to full peace officer powers and duties provided by California Penal Code section 830.1 by ordinance, referred to as a "designated" Level I reserve police officer. On the other hand, the authority of a "non-designated"' Level I reserve police officer only extends for the duration of assignment to specific law enforcement functions.

On December 12, 2023, the City Council introduced Ordinance No. 928-23, which would add a new Section 2.40.030 to Chapter 2.40 of the Blythe Municipal Code relating to designation of Level I reserve police officers.

STAFF REPORT: The new Section 2.40.030 would:
• Subject to the City Manager's approval, authorize the Chief of Police to appoint a qualified Level I reserve police officer as a "designated" Level I reserve police officer. • Provide that Level I reserve police officers who have been appointed as "designated" in writing by the Chief of Police shall possess the full powers and duties of peace officers set forth in California Penal Code section 830.1.
• Provide that any Level I reserve police officer not appointed as a "designated" Level I reserve police officer is a "non-designated" Level I reserve police officer, whose authority shall extend only for the duration of the reserve police officer's specific assignment.

Authorize the Chief of Police to revoke the authority of any reserve police officer at any time.

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 928-23.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Ordinance No. 928-23
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ORDINANCE NO. 928-23

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING A NEW SECTION

2.40.030 (RESERVE POLICE OFFICERS) TO CHAPTER

2.40 (RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING OF LAW
ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS) OF TITLE 2
(ADMINISTRATION AND PERSONNEL) OF THE BLYTHE

MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS

EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE

CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3)
(COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION)
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:

WHEREAS, the Blythe Police Department Reserve Unit was established to supplement and assist sworn police officers in their duties; and WHEREAS, pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(2), whenever a qualified person is deputized or appointed by the proper authority as a reserve police officer, and is so designated by local ordinance, and is assigned to the prevention and detection of crime and the general enforcement of the laws of the State of California by that authority, the person is a peace officer if the person qualifies as set forth in California Penal Code section 832.6(a)(1); and
WHEREAS, a person designated as a peace officer pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(2) has the full powers and duties of a peace officer as provided by California Penal Code section 830.1; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(1), the authority of a non-designated reserve police officer extends only for the duration of the person's specific assignment; and
WHEREAS, Blythe's Level I reserve police officers are currently considered "non- designated" and, as a result, they may only carry out peace officer powers during their designated working hours; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to grant the Chief of Police the authority to appoint "designated" Level I reserve police officers and effectuate their ability to fully carry out all peace officer powers twenty-four (24) hours per day; and WHEREAS, all legal requirements prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

Ordinance No. 928-23

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NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council finds that the recitals set forth above are true and correct.

SECTION 2. Amendment to Chapter 2.40. Chapter 2.40 (Recruitment and Training of Law Enforcement Officers) of Title 2 (Administration and Personnel) of the Blythe Municipal Code is hereby amended to add a new Section 2.40.030 to read as follows:

2.40.030 - Reserve police officers.

A. Subject to the approval of the city manager, the chief of police has the authority to select and appoint any reserve police officer that has qualified as a Level I reserve police officer pursuant to California Penal Code section 832.6(a)(1) as a "designated" Level I reserve police officer as provided by California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(2).

B. Pursuant to California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(2), those reserve police officers who have qualified as Level I reserve police officers pursuant to California Penal Code section 832.6(a)(1) who have been appointed as "designated" Level l reserve police officers in writing by the chief of police shall possess the full powers and duties of peace officers set forth in California Penal Code section 830.1.

C. Any Level I reserve police officer not appointed as a "designated" Level I reserve police officer as provided in this section is a "non-designated" Level I reserve police officer as provided in California Penal Code section 830.6(a)(1). The authority of a non-designated Level I reserve police officer shall extend only for the duration of the reserve police officer's specific assignment.

D. The chief of police may revoke the authority of any reserve police officer at any time.

SECTION 3. Environmental Compliance. The City Council hereby finds that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption and implementation of this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The Ordinance is therefore exempt from the environmental review requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 4. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.

Ordinance No. 928-23

-117-
SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby declares that it would have adopted this Ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after its final passage.

SECTION 7. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 9th day of January, 2024, by the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 928-23

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PUBLIC

HEARING
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PRIL HAT TU CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Ordinance No. 927-23 Repealing Chapter 17.78 (Environmental Evaluation) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Brittany E. Roberto, City Attorney
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council, subsequent to the public hearing, introduce Ordinance No. 927-23:

ORDINANCE NO. 927-23 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING CHAPTER 17.78 (ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING)

OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE EXEMPTION) FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: Chapter 17.78 of Title 17 of the Blythe Municipal Code has one section, Section 17.78.010. Section 17.78.010 provides in part: "The [P]lanning [D]irector shall make an environmental assessment of all matters requiring action by the [C]ity [C]ouncil under this title." Section 17.78.010 was last amended in 1987.

California Public Resources Code section 21080(b)(5) provides that the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) does not apply to projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves.

Section 15270 of the CEQA Guidelines provides that CEQA does not apply to projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves. Section 15270 provides that it is intended to allow an initial screening of projects on the merits for quick disapprovals prior to the initiation of the CEQA process where an agency can determine that the project cannot be approved. Specific to environmental impact reports (EIR), the Court of Appeal has indicated that to require a public agency to prepare and circulate a draft EIR, and prepare a final EIR including responses to comments, before rejecting a project would impose a substantial burden on the agency, other agencies, organizations, and individuals commenting on the proposal, and the project applicant, and would not produce any discernible environmental benefit (Las Lomas Land Co., LLC v. City of Los Angeles, 177 Cal. App. 4th 837, 849 (2d Dist. 2009).

STAFF REPORT: By requiring the Planning Director to make an environmental assessment of all matters requiring action by the City Council under the Zoning Code, Section 17.78.010, on its face, imposes a greater obligation on City staff than what is required by State law. The City has limited staff with limited time. Requiring City staff to comply with an obligation that exceeds State requirements utilizes resources that can be allocated to other City needs. -120-
Staff prepared the proposed Ordinance No. 927-23 to repeal Chapter 17.78 in its entirety. If Chapter 17.78 is repealed, staff will continue to comply with State requirements relating to environmental review and assessments.

The Blythe Municipal Code and State law require two public hearings regarding the proposed Ordinance. On December 12, 2023, the City Council, acting as the Planning Agency, conducted a public hearing regarding proposed Ordinance No. 927-23.

Therefore, staff recommends that the Council, subsequent to the public hearing, introduce Ordinance No. 927-23.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Ordinance No. 927-23
-121-
ORDINANCE NO. 927-23

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, REPEALING CHAPTER 17.78
(ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION) OF TITLE 17 (ZONING)

OF THE BLYTHE MUNICIPAL CODE AND FINDING THE

ORDINANCE IS EXEMPT FROM ENVIRONMENTAL

REVIEW UNDER THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL

QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA
GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3) (COMMON SENSE

EXEMPTION)
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:

WHEREAS, pursuant to California Public Resources Code section 21080(b)(5), the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) does not apply to projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 15270 of the CEQA Guidelines, CEQA does not apply to projects which a public agency rejects or disapproves. Section 15270 provides that it is intended to allow an initial screening of projects on the merits for quick disapprovals prior to the initiation of the CEQA process where an agency can determine that the project cannot be approved; and
WHEREAS, specific to environmental impact reports (EIR), the Court of Appeal has indicated that to require a public agency to prepare and circulate a draft EIR, and prepare a final EIR including responses to comments, before rejecting a project would impose a substantial burden on the agency, other agencies, organizations, and individuals commenting on the proposal, and the project applicant, and would not produce any discernible environmental benefit (Las Lomas Land Co., LLC v. City of Los Angeles, 177 Cal. App. 4th 837, 849 (2d Dist. 2009); and
WHEREAS, Chapter 17.78 (Environmental Evaluation) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code contains one section, Section 17.78.010 (Assessments and impact reports); and
WHEREAS, Section 17.78.010, last amended in 1987, states that the Planning Director shall make an environmental assessment of all matters requiring action by the City Council under the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, on its face, Section 17.78.010 imposes a greater obligation on City staff than what is required by State law; and
WHEREAS, the City has limited staff with limited time. Requiring staff to comply with an obligation that exceeds State requirements utilizes resources that can be allocated to other City needs; and
Ordinance No. 927-23

-122,
WHEREAS, the City desires to repeal Chapter 17.78; and
WHEREAS, on December 12, 2023, the City Council of the City of Blythe, acting as the City's Planning Agency, held a duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed repeal of Chapter 17.78 of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, on January 9, 2024, the City Council of the City of Blythe held a second duly noticed public hearing and considered the staff report, recommendations by staff, and public testimony regarding the proposed repeal of Chapter 17.78 of the Blythe Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, this Ordinance has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines. The Ordinance has been found to be exempt pursuant to CÉQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) because the Ordinance will not have a significant effect on the environment; and
WHEREAS, all legal requirements prior to the adoption of this Ordinance have occurred.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1. Recitals. The City Council finds that the recitals set forth above are true and correct.

SECTION 2. Repeal of Chapter 17.78. The City Council hereby repeals Chapter

17.78 (Environmental Evaluation) of Title 17 (Zoning) of the Blythe Municipal Code in its entirety.

SECTION 3. Environmental Compliance. The City Council hereby finds that it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the adoption and implementation of this Ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment. The Ordinance is therefore exempt from the environmental review requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption) of the CEQA Guidelines.

SECTION 4. Inconsistencies. Any provision of the Blythe Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent with the provisions of this ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.

SECTION 5. Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of Ordinance No. 927-23

-123,
the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby declares that it would have adopted this ordinance and each section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses, phrases or portions be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 6. Certification. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this ordinance and shall cause the same to be published or posted in the manner required by law.

PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this day of _, 2024 by
the following vote:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Joseph DeConinck
Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius
City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Brittany E. Roberto
City Attorney
Ordinance No. 927-23

-124-

CORINS FIR

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Tentative Parcel Map 38860
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended the City Council, subsequent to the public hearing thereon, adopt Resolution No. 2024-002 approving the Notice of Exemption with De Minimis Impact Findings for Tentative Parcel Map 38860 and Resolution No. 2024-003 approving Tentative Parcel Map 38860 with conditions.

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-002. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE CONTAINING

FINDINGS IN SUPPORT OF APPROVAL OF A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION WITH DE MINIMIS IMPACT FINDING FOR TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 38860.

RESOLUTION NO. 2024-003. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE CONTAINING FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS IN SUPPORT OF APPROVING TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 38860 TO ALLOW THE DIVISION OF ONE (1) 0.39+ (GROSS) ACRE PARCEL INTO TWO (2) SEPARATE PARCELS ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 184 N. ACACIA STREET (ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 851-071-014).

FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: The site is currently one legal parcel with one Assessor's Parcel Number assigned. The site contains two single family residential dwelling units. The proposed subdivision of the subject property would allow the applicant to convey each unit as separate and autonomous parcel.

Configuration of the parcels as proposed accommodates required setback dimensions for each of the existing dwellings. City staff is unaware of any new improvements proposed as part of this project.

STAFF REPORT: Jonathan Smith and his agent, The Holt Group request approval to allow the division of one (1) 0.39+ acre parcel into two (2) separate parcels. The project site is located at 184 N. Acacia and is legally described as Assessor's Parcel Number 851-071-014. Proposed Parcel No. 1 is 0.14t acres in size and Proposed Parcel No. 2 is 0.25† acres in size. Each parcel has access from an improved dedicated right-of-way. No variances or exceptions are required for this Parcel Map.

This site has a Low Density Residential (R-L-2) zoning designation. The existing zoning designation allows for a minimum lot area of 6,000 SF. As the smallest proposed parcel is 6,000 SF, the Parcel Map is consistent with existing zoning regulations. Surrounding land uses include residential uses and vacant property.

Environmental Review: The project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental -125-
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Guidelines Section 15315- Minor Land Divisions, and a Notice of Exemption with De Minimis Impact Finding will be filed.

Findings:

That the proposed Tentative Parcel Map is consistent with the City of Blythe General Plan:

The Tentative Parcel Map allows for parcel sizes that meet the requirements of the Residential Estate Zone and therefore the City's General Plan. There are no proposed development plans for this site, but this Parcel Map may help further the goals of the General Plan by making this site more attractive to sell or redevelopment.

B. That the proposed Tentative Parcel Map is consistent with the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance:

The Tentative Parcel Map as proposed meets the requirements of the City's Zoning Code as the proposed lot sizes meet the parameters of Chapter 17.10.010 of the Blythe C. That the site is physically suitable for the land division as proposed:

The site is presently zoned for residential use, with two single family dwelling units on the site. The site is suitable for this land division as it will create two autonomous parcels for these housing units.

D. That the designs of the project will have no impact on environmental resources including fish and wildlife:

As no development of this land is proposed at this time, this division of land will have no impact on the environment. Future development plans will be reviewed, and environmental review performed to determine and/or mitigate any potential environmental impacts.

E. That the project is exempt under State CEQA Guideline Section 15315 - Minor Land Division.

F. The environmental analysis/determination reflects the independent judgment of the City of Blythe.

ATTACHMENTS:

Resolution No. 2024-002 w/ Exhibit "A"

2. Draft Notice of Determination

3. Draft Notice of Exemption with De Minimis Impact Finding

4. Resolution No. 2024-003 w/ Exhibit "A"
Conditions of Approval
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RESOLUTION NO. 2024-002

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY

OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, CONTAINING FINDINGS IN

SUPPORT OF APPROVAL OF A NOTICE OF EXEMPTION

WITH DE MINIMIS IMPACT FINDING FOR TENTATIVE
PARCEL MAP 38860
WHEREAS: The City Council of the City of Blythe at its regularly scheduled meeting of January 9, 2024, conducted a public hearing to consider Tentative Parcel Map 38860 being a request to subdivide one (1) 0.39t acre parcel into two (2) individual parcels. Proposed Parcel No. 1 is 0.14t acres in size and Proposed Parcel No. 2 is 0.25t acres in size. The site is located at 184 N. Acacia Street in Blythe and is more specifically described as Assessor's Parcel Number 851-071-014. The Zoning and General Plan designation of the site is R-L-2 (Low-Density Residential); and,
WHEREAS: The City Council considered the following findings in its review of the environmental circumstance for this project:

That the project is exempt under State CEQA Guideline Section 15315 - Minor Land Divisions.

That a Notice of Exemption with No Impact Finding, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, was prepared for the project.

That review of the environmental circumstances regarding this project indicates that no adverse impacts would accrue to wildlife resources from implementation of the project.

That the project may proceed subsequent to approval and/or conditional approval by the State of a "de minimis impact" pursuant to Section 711.2 et seq. of the Fish and Game Code.

That the environmental assessment and analysis prepared for this project reflect the independent judgment of the City of Blythe.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the City Council of the City of Blythe does hereby approve the Notice of Exemption with De Minimis Impact Finding prepared for Tentative Parcel Map 38860 for the 0.39t (gross) acre site shown on Exhibit "A" attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.

PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 9th day of January 2024, by the following called vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
-127-
Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SE AL)
-128-

IN THE CITY OF BLYTHE, COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 38860 BASIS OF BEARING STATEMENT PORTION OF THE NORTHWEST ONE-QUARTER OF SECTION 33, TOWNSHIP 6 SOUTH, RANGE 23 EAST, SBM,

CITY OF BLYTHE, COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA

FLOOD ZONE
ICE OUT AUST 21 1008
ROOD ZONE AFOREDOM CEDINED FROU FOR VERSIT.

AREAS
MEN, - 17.009.50, 2.30 AC

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

UTILITIES

CURRENT ZONING PROPOSED ZONING
R-c-2

DESAT GENERAL PLAN AND LAND USE

RESDENTAL COM DONSTI

PROPOSED GENERAL PLAN AND LAND USE

DESIGNATION

CURRENT USE PROPOSED USE

RESCENTAL MAXI-TARY SOONE MARD-SANET

SETBACKS
PARES AND CONCON MEAN NORMATON COLENCO PADE DE OTT CE ALYTAE.

VICINITY MAP

NOT TO SCALE
BLYTHE

OWNER/SUBDIMDER EXISTING EASEMENT DESCRIPTIONS
пест CUT ITSEL
ASSESORS PARCEL NOS. CrOs
11/23/ VON 851-271-014

MORSCH BAT - PRONCT

ENGINEER
B642 ang.

SCALE: THO A-0.

APPROVED DATE DESIGN BY: BENCHMARC: CITY OF ERYTHE BENCHMAX PREPARED UNDER THE ORRECT SUMEAMEION OF:

ROL TENTATRE PARCE MAD 3AS9 SHEET
The Holt Group

DEVATIN -
TRATINE SHEET CONTENT:

ENGINEERING PLANNING SURVEYING AGEERT K HOLT. PE
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 35360 • 1 SHEETS

HEAVEN RO

NO NOXXXX
LOCATION BLYTHE. CA CUENT: 1. 3MTH

NOTICE OF DETERMINATION
TO: Office of Planning and Research Riverside County Clerk 1400 Tenth Street, Room 121 PO Box 751
Sacramento, CA 95814 Riverside CA 92502-0751
FROM: City of Blythe PROJECT APPLICANT: Jonathan Smith
235 North Broadway 213 W. Hobsonway
Blythe CA 92225 Blythe, CA 92225
(760) 922-6161 (760) 922-4658
SUBJECT: Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21108 or 21152 of the Public Resources Code.

PROJECT TITLE: Tentative Parcel Map 38860
STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NUMBER: N/A
CONTACT PERSON/PHONE: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager (760) 922-6161 PROJECT LOCATION: 184 N. Acacia, Assessor's Parcel Number 851-071-014.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Applicant is requesting approval to allow the division of one (1) .39 acre parcel into two (2) separate parcels. The project site is located at 184 N. Acacia Street and is legally described as Assessor's Parcel Number 851-071-014. Proposed Parcel No. 1 is 0.14‡ acres in size and Proposed Parcel No. 2 is 0.25.t acres in size. Each parcel has access from a dedicated right-of-way with no variances or exceptions required. The Zoning and General Plan designation of the site is R-L-2 (Low Density Residential).

This is to advise the City of Blythe (Lead Agency/Responsible Agency) has approved the above described project and has made the following determination regarding the above-described project:

1. The project. will, X _ will not, have a significant effect on the environment.

2. An Environmental Impact Report was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of C.E.Q.A.

X A Notice of Exemption was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of C.E.Q.A.

Mitigation measures _were, _X. were not, made a condition of the approval of the project.

A statement of Overriding Considerations was, x _ was not, adopted for this project.

This is to certify that the Notice of Exemption and record of project approval is available to the general public at:

Blythe Development Services Department, 235 North Broadway, Blythe. California.

Date Received for Filing
Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
-130-

NOTICE OF EXEMPTION
With
De Minimis Impact Finding
TO: Office of Planning and Research FROM: City of Blythe PO Box 3044, Room 222 235 North Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 Blythe CA 92225
County Clerk
County of Riverside
PO Box 751
Riverside CA 92502-0751
Project Title: Tentative Parcel Map 38860
Project Location: 184 N. Acacia Street, Blythe, CA 92225 (Assessor's Parcel Number 851-071-014)
Project City: City of Blythe
Project County: County of Riverside
Project Description: A Tentative Parcel Map to allow the division of one (1) 0.39t acre parcel into two (2) separate parcels.

Name of Public Agency Approving Project: City of Blythe Approved by City Council January 9, 2024
Name of Person/Agency Carrying Out Project: Jonathan Smith 213 W. Hobsonway
Blythe, CA 92225
(760) 922-4658
Exempt Status: (check one)
Ministerial (Sec. 21080(b)(1): 15268
Declared Emergency (Sec. 21080(b)(3): 15269(a)):

Emergency Project (Sec. 21080(b)(4); 15269(b)(c)):

Categorical Exemption: Class 15 - Section 15315
Statutory Exemption:

Reason(s) why project is exempt: The project consists of the subdivision of one Residentially zoned property into two individual parcels. The project is consistent with the General Plan and zoning designations of the site as well as urbanized land uses in the area. Each parcel has access from a dedicated right-of-way and no variances or exceptions are required. The project satisfies all requirements as outlined in Section 15315 of the Guidelines.

Lead Agency Signature: Date:

Telephone Agency Telephone No. (760) 922-6161
-131-
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-003

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE,

CALIFORNIA CONTAINING FINDINGS AND CONDITIONS IN SUPPORT OF APPROVING TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 38860 TO ALLOW THE
DIVISION OF ONE (1) 0.39‡ (GROSS) ACRE PARCEL INTO TWO (2) SEPARATE PARCELS ON PROPERTY LOCATED AT 184 N. ACACIA
STREET (ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 851-071-014)
WHEREAS: The City Council of the City of Blythe at its regularly scheduled meeting of January 9, 2024 conducted a public hearing to consider approval of Tentative Parcel Map 38860 being a request to allow the division of one (1) 0.39+ acre parcel into two (2) individual parcels.

Proposed Parcel No. 1 is 0.14t acres in size and Proposed Parcel No. 2 is 0.25‡ acres in size. Both parcels have access from a dedicated right-of-way. The Zoning and General Plan designation of the site is R-L-2 (Low-Density Residential) and the property is legally described as Assessor's Parcel Number 851-071-014; and,
WHEREAS: The City Council received testimony from all interested parties relative to said Tentative Parcel Map; and,
WHEREAS: The City Council made the following findings relative to this project:

1. That the proposed Tentative Parcel Map is consistent with the City of Blythe General Plan.

2. That the proposed Tentative Parcel Map is consistent with the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.

3. That the site is physically suitable for the land division as proposed.

4. That the designs of the project will have no impact on environmental resources including fish and wildlife.

5. That the project is exempt under State CEQA Guideline Section 15315 - Minor Land Division.

6. The environmental analysis/determination reflects the independent judgment of the City of Blythe.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That the Blythe City Council does hereby approve Tentative Parcel Map 38860 shown on Exhibit "A" attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference, subject to conditions as attached.

PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED this 9" day of January 2024, by the following called vote, to wit:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:
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Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SEAL)
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IN THE CITY OF BLYTHE, COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 38860 BASIS OF BEARING STATEMENT PORTION OF THE NORTHWEST ONE-QUARTER OF SECTION 33, TOWNSHIP 6 SOUTH, RANGE 23 EAST, SBM,

CITY OF BLYTHE, COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE, STATE OF CALIFORNIA

FLOOD ZONE

DOES - MOOS A MACH ROCO HAZUROS ARE UNDETIRUANCA
ETECT OKT 120U51 J7. 2000
R000 20A HEORTON CRUNCO FOS TOL REBOOT.

AREAS
TORA - 17.005 S5, G.39 10

LEGAL DESCRIPTION

UTILITIES
EFFE

CURRENT ZONING PROPOSED ZONING

CURRENT GENERAL PLAN ANO LAND USE

DESIGNATION

ARSONIA CON SANCTY

PROPOSED GENERAL PLAN AND LAND USE

DESIGNATION

COCONTAL LOM CENSETY

CURRENT USE PROPOSED USE

SETBACKS

VICINITY MAP

NOT TO SCALE
BLYTHE

OWNER/SUBDIVIDER EXISTING EASEMENT DESCRIPTIONS
ASSESORS PARCEL NOS.

UM 251-071-014

ENGINEER PHONICT
SITE

SCALE THE
DESIGN BY: PREPARED LNDER THE COAT SITTINGE SHEET
REVER COT CHINES" GNATAG DADC MAD 3288
The Holt Group

ELEVATICAL -
DRAWN ON: SHEET CONTENT:

ENGINEERING PLANNING SURVEYING
HEAD I oF 1 SHEETS
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 35062
CHECKED BY: 030106
10/1004 Ma. DD. * XXxxXXX
LOCATIONE BLYTHE, CA CENT. J. SMITH
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CITY OF BLYTHE

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Tentative Parcel Map 38860
Project Applicant: Jonathan Smith

1. The permittee shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of Blythe, its' agents, officers and Development of the site shall comply with the mandatory requirements of all City of Blythe Ordinances and Resolutions, all applicable State and Federal Codes and Laws [in place at such time as entitlements are granted and/or building permits are applied for] and shall substantially comply with the conditionally approved and tentative parcel map.

3. The developer/applicant shall provide and show all existing and required right-of-way and utility easements on the tentative parcel map.

4. A Final Map shall be prepared according to all the latest requirements of the Subdivision Map Act and City of Blythe Ordinances and standards. The map shall be prepared by a California Registered Land Surveyor or Civil Engineer. A Final Map filing fee shall be remitted to the Planning Department upon submittal of the Final Map for City Council approval in addition to a per sheet plan check fee determined by the contract plan check agency. Said condition shall apply to each map filed. Fees in place at the time of map submittal shall apply.

5. Within six (6) months of Tentative Map approval, the applicant shall provide the City with tax clearance documentation from the Office of the Riverside County Tax Collector indicating that all due and payable and/or delinquent taxes or special assessments have been paid for the property being divided. If this condition is not adhered to within said six (6) month period, the City Council may hold a public hearing to consider revocation of the map.

The life of the (approved) Tentative Map shall be as set forth in Section 66452.6 of the Subdivision Map Act.

7. Property corners must be identified with approved markers within one (1) year of final map approval.

Proposed development or redevelopment of any of the proposed parcels shall be subject to the standard City of Blythe review and approval process.

The City shall collect plan check fees for initial and subsequent plans checks upon submission and resubmission of any development plans. The fee schedule is available at the Building Department.

10. All lots shall meet the minimum lot area requirement, setback requirement and development standards set forth in the City's General Plan and Blythe Municipal Code.

11. No building permits shall be issued for the proposed lots until after recordation of the final map. 1 -135-

12. All work performed in the public right-of-way (ROW) shall conform to the City of Blythe Standard Drawings and Specifications and shall meet all ADA requirements (e.g. sidewalks and driveway aprons).

Copies are available at the Department of Public Works or online at www.cityofblythe.ca.gov/ (click on the Document Center link, followed by the Public Works sub-category).

13. If construction work in the ROW exceeds $3,500 in valuation, the contractor for the developer shall post a performance bond equal to the cost of the work prior to issuance of an encroachment permit to work in the ROW.

14. All plans and specifications for work in the public right-of-way shall be prepared by an engineer or architect licensed in the State of California to perform such work. Plans shall be submitted to the Public Works Department on 24 inch by 36 inch sheets as per the Standard Specification.

15. Before commencing work in the ROW, a representative of the developer or contractor shall attend a pre- construction meeting with the Department of Public Works to discuss issues pertaining to traffic control and public safety.

16. The Final Map shall comply with Blythe Municipal Code Section 17.10 - Lot and Building Dimensions.

17. All public improvements shall be constructed to the City of Blythe Standard Drawings and Specifications inducing, but not imita 1, sewer, water and stom drain infastucture improvements and strect layou

18. Each parcel shall have dedicated water and sewer service connections with meter and meter box installed per City of Blythe standards.

I have read and understand the Conditions of Approval for Tentative Parcel 38860; and by my signature hereon agree to comply with the same.

Jonathan Smith Date
Applicant
2 -136-

CONTINUED

BUSINESS
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TRINERES

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2023
SUBJECT: Save Chuck
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended Council receive and file a report on Save Chuck.

FISCAL IMPACT: Impacts to the City of Blythe from the closure of Chuckawalla Valley State Prison include a revenue decline of $2.9 million.

BACKGROUND: In December, the Secretary of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) announced plans to close Chuckawalla Valley State Prison in Blythe by March 2025. The City quickly sprang into action to rally against this closure. The City began contacting State and Federal legislators and held meetings with elected officials, the CDCR Secretary, CVSP Close Down Manager and other CDCR staff members. The City submitted over 40 Public Records requests to the State seeking information related to how CVSP was selected for closure over other older and more costlier prisons in the State's system. Several of the City's requests for information were denied.

The City also went to work on solutions and proposed a swap of CVSP in Blythe for the California Rehabilitation Center (CRC) in Norco. This is a win-win for the Cities and State as a more cost-effective prison will be shuttered in a City that has far more resources to absorb job losses than Blythe. The City of Norco has petitioned for the closure of CRC for years. CRC has been on the State's chopping block since 2012. The State's own Legislative Analyst's report as well as other independent reports find that CRC should be the next CDCR institution to close due to a number of issues including cost to operate and safety.

In January, the City hired Tripeppi Smith for PR Services and the Gonsalves & Son Firm for lobbying efforts in the State Capitol. The City has garnered support from Assemblyman Garcia, State Senators Steve Padilla and Kelly Seyarto, The Riverside County Board of Supervisors, CVAG, fellow Cities in Riverside County, Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange County Sheriff's, the Riverside County District Attorney, PVID, Cal Cities, Crime Victims United, Crime Survivors, and others.

STAFF REPORT: Staff will provide an oral report on the efforts being made to "Save Chuck".

For more information on how you can help with the movement to "Save Chuck", please visit savechuck.org.

ATTACHMENTS: None
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NEW BUSINESS
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TONE HIRT

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Letter of Support for Grid Alternatives
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended Council provide direction to staff.

FISCAL IMPACT: None.

BACKGROUND: GRID Alternatives Inland Empire is a 501(c)3 Nonprofit organization that has been installing solar systems exclusively for low-income communities since 2011. GRID IE provides no cost solar installations to income-qualified properties. There are currently 300 properties in the City that would be eligible for programs provided by GRID IE.

STAFF REPORT: At the December 12, 2023, City Council Meeting, representatives from GRID Alternatives spoke during public comment making a formal request for a letter of recommendation from the City and for use of the City's logo for use in promoting their no cost solar installation programs. The Letter would be mailed to qualified properties within the City outlining the available programs through GRID Alternatives. Staff was directed to bring this item back to council for discussion and direction.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Sample Letters of support provided by GRID Alternatives -140-
City of Blythe Logo
GRID

ALTERNATIVES
Inland Empire
RE: No-Cost Solar Program for qualified City of Blythe homeowners Dear Homeowner,
I am writing to let you know about a great partnership the City of Blythe has established with GRID Alternatives IE (GRID). GRID is a state funded, community-supported nonprofit organization that helps low-income families in the City of Blythe through the Energy for All Program to reduce their electric bills through the installation of NO.

COST solar electric systems.

The Energy for All program does NOT require a credit check, high electric bills, or equity in your home. The systems are provided at no-cost and there are no liens.

You may qualify for the program if you meet all the following criteria: People in your Annual Household household Income
$39,440

1. Own and occupy your home $39,440

2. Live in the Qualified Area $62,150

3. Total household income must be at or below income limits 4 $75,000 5 $87,850
6 $100,700
$113,550
$126,400
I encourage you to contact GRID Alternatives directly at (866) 921-4696. Funding is limited and is on a first qualified, first serve basis. You can also learn more about GRID by visiting their website at www.gridalternatives.org/qualify or by sending an email to [email protected].

Sincerely,
-141-
City of Blythe Logo
GRID

ALTERNATIVES
Inland Empire
Su Referencia: Un programa gratuito para familias de bajos ingresos que séan propietarios de casa en Blythe
Estimado Dueño de Casa:

Le escribo para informarle sobre una gran asociación que la ciudad de Blythe ha establecido con GRID Alternatives lE (GRID). GRiD es una organización sin fines de lucro financiada por el estado y apoyada por la comunidad que ayuda a las familias de bajos ingresos en la Ciudad de Blythe a través del Programa Energy for All a reducir sus facturas de electricidad mediante la instalación de sistemas eléctricos solares SIN COSTO.

El programa Energy for All NO requiere una verificación de crédito, facturas de electricidad altas o equidad en su casa. Los sistemas serán instalados sin costo alguno y sin embargos.

Usted puede ser aprobado para el programa si cumple los siguientes requisitos:

Numero de Ingreso Anual del
personas que Hogar

1. Es dueño de su casa y vive en ella viven en la casa
1 $39,440

2. Vive en la zona calificada 2 $39,440

3. Tiene ingresos anuales del hogar iguales o menor que los limites 3 $62,150 indicados $75,000
$87,850
$100,700
~ ∞ $113,550
$126,400
Le sugiero que se comunique con GRID Alternatives directamente al (866) 921-4696. Fondos son limitados.

También puede obtener más información sobre GRID visitando su sitio web en www.gridalternatives.org/qualify o enviando un correo electrónico a [email protected].

Sinceramente,
-142-
GRID

ALTERNATIVES
Inland Empire
Blythe Logo
Dear Mr.

The City of Blythe wants to introduce and share our support for GRID Alternatives IE (GRID IE) a long- standing Blythe community partner. GRID IE has a program offering to provide clean power and energy cost savings to multifamily affordable housing owners and developers in the City of Blythe.

The Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) program provides financial incentives to substantially offset the cost of solar. As a statewide administrator to SOMAH, GRID IE offers a turnkey solar installation program.

GRID IE's solar model provides affordable housing owners and developers with a comprehensive energy solution that aims to maximize the energy savings from. the solar investment, provides energy efficiency education to tenants, and integrates workforce development opportunities to Blythe residents on every solar installation. Blythe residents can gain hands-on installation experience and skills that are essential when pursuing installation careers in the solar industry.

The City of Blythe is committed to a sustainable and healthy community and encourage support for organizations like GRID IE that promote clean, affordable solar power and solar job training opportunities to residents of Blythe and others throughout the lE.

Sincerely,
The City of Blythe Representative
-143-
GRID

ALTERNATIVES
inland Empire
Blythe Logo
Experience, Benefit, and Community Impact
About GRID Alternatives
GRID Alternatives the nation's largest mission base non-profit and is a national leader in making clean, affordable solar power and solar jobs accessible to low-income families. Using a unique, people-first model, GRID develops and implements solar projects that serve qualifying households and affordable housing providers and offers solar education and hands-on job training to help people jumpstart their solar careers. Our work brings together affordable housing organizations, job training groups, government agencies, municipalities, utilities and local communities to make solar a win for everyone.

Experience You Can Trust
GRID has installed over 48 Megawatts of solar energy systems including single family homes, multifamily homes and Megawatt scale community solar. We also provide technical assistance to policymakers, affordable housing providers, city and county government agencies, and Native American tribes across the country. Our work includes directly securing funding for partners like NeighborWorks America affiliate organizations; and direct management of California's $162 million Single-Family Affordable Solar Homes Program and the Department of California Services and Development's $14 million Low Income Weatherization Program. We have experience with non-traditional installations including buildings with historic status, green roofs, carports, and energy storage solutions.

Competitive Pricing
GRID maximizes its impact to your project by leveraging philanthropic support, offering a wide range of financing models, and working with volunteers and job trainees while providing value- added community impacts beyond affordable solar installation and free technical assistance.

The resulting cost savings can be invested in property rehabilitation measures such as energy efficiency upgrades, lighting, flood protection, storm water management, etc.

Job Training and Employment Opportunities
Our unique volunteer and workforce development model provides opportunities for local volunteers, job trainees, and your residents to participate in our installations, gaining experience they can use to get jobs in the local solar industry. We partner with more than 150 community colleges and job training programs nationwide to provide a classroom in the field to their students.

Tenant Education and Community Engagement
GRID goes the extra mile to connect with the community we install for. Being welcomed into your community allows for a cordial installation process and inspires interest in solar technology. We provide workshops and educational materials to help your tenants save money through energy efficiency.
-144-

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

CLERISHED STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: January 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Request to Waive Community Center Rental Fees for RAP Foundation Community Meeting
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended Council waive Community Center Rental fees in the amount of $500, which excludes the $150 refundable deposit and $100 labor fee for the RAP Foundation's use of the Community Center from 1pm to 8pm on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

FISCAL IMPACT: Loss of revenue in the amount of $500.00.

BACKGROUND: The Regional Access Project Foundation (RAP), 4" District Supervisor Manuel V. Perez's Office and Peace from Chaos plan to hold a second community meeting focused on mental health resources. The first meeting was held on November 8, 2023, at Palo Verde College. The RAP foundation requested use of the City's Community Center on Thursday, February 15, 2024 from 1pm to 8pm for this meeting.

The City of Blythe has an agreement with the Riverside County Office on Aging for exclusive use of the Community Center Monday through Friday from 6:30am to 3:00pm. As such, the City informed the RAP Foundation that the City was unable to rent the facility between the hours of 1pm and 3pm. The RAP Foundation was subsequently able to secure written permission from the Office on Aging for use of the facility on February 15th for this meeting, providing that they would be responsible to meet facility usage rules and responsibilities as stipulated by the City of Blythe.

STAFF REPORT: Rental Fees for use of the Community Center include $500 for the space, a $100 labor fee and $150 refundable deposit. The Rap Foundation requests that all fees, totaling $750.00 be waived for this meeting. However, the City will be required to send staff after hours to lock the facility at the end of the Community Meeting. This will be a direct cost to the City.

Previous requests to waive rental fees have been granted excluding the labor and deposit fees.

Therefore, staff recommends waiving the rental fees except for the $100 labor fee and $150 refundable deposit.

Staff is in support of this request. However, due to the City's exclusive agreement with the Office on Aging and the adopted rental fees for this facility, it is recommended the RAP Foundation work with City staff to find alternative meeting locations for any future meetings.

The Multi-Purpose Room in City Hall can be provide at no cost.

ATTACHMENTS: None
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SUCCESSOR
AGENCY
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MINUTES

BLYTHE SUCCESSOR AGENCY
December 12, 2023
The December 12, 2023 meeting of the Blythe Successor Agency was called to order by Chair DeConinck. Also in attendance were Vice Chair Rodriguez and Board Members Reynolds and Halby. Board Member Burton was excused from the meeting. Staff in attendance included Board Secretary Crecelius and other agency staff.

NEW BUSINESS:

Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule and Administrative Budget for FY 24/25.

Finance Director Elms stated staff has prepared the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule nown as the ROPS as shown in Attachment A and an administrative budget sho wre i tachment B for the enforceable obligation period of July 1, listed on the ROPS for funding are routine and enforceable obligations of the Successor Agency and include debt payments for bond issuance, trustee fees, maintenance costs for properties set to be disposed of per the Agency's Long Range Property Management Plan and the City's eligible administrative costs. It is recommended the Board adopt Resolution No. SA 2023-001, approving the ROPS and administrative budget for an enforceable obligation period of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 and further authorize staff to submit the Agency's ROPS and administrative budget to the Riverside County Oversight Board and the Department of Finance for Review and Approval
No public comment. Board Member Reynolds moved approval of Resolution No. SA 2023-001.

The motion was seconded by Vice Chair Rodriguez with a unanimous aye vote.

RESOLUTION NO. SA 2023-001. A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE BLYTHE

REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY APPROVING A RECOGNIZED OBLIGATION PAYMENT SCHEDULE AND ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2024 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2025 AND TAKING RELATED ACTIONS IN CONNECTION THEREWITH.

ADJOURN:

There being no further business to come before the Board the meeting was adjourned.

Joseph DeConinck, Chair
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius, Secretary
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REPORTS
-148-
PUBLIC

COMMENT
-149-

ADJOURN
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