Cities Index.
Agenda

Blythe City Council
April 8, 2025

Document
Agenda
Meeting
April 8, 2025
Body
Blythe City Council
Pages
41
Original file
10.7 MB
Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on www.cityofblythe.ca.gov. That file is the official record.

FY 2024-2025 FY 2024-2025
Adopted Proposed Increase /
G/L# Account Description Category Budget Amendment (Decrease) General Fund
Revenue
000-25-313-000 Bradley Burns Local Sales Tax Sales Taxes 1,950,000 (200,000) 000-25-313-001 District Sales Tax Measure K Sales Taxes 3,500,000 (500,000) 000-25-318-430 Sanitation Franchise Fees Other Taxes 375,000 75,000 000-41-334-030 LEAP Grant State Government Grants 65,000 65,000 000-50-331-069 Stonegarden Grant Federal Government Grants 95,000 95,000 : 5,000 6,000
000-50-331-070 DOJ Bullet Proof Vest Grant Federal Government Grants 000-50-331-091 Boating Safety and Enforcement Grant Federal Government Grants 23,700 23,700 000-50-336-020 Post-Release Acct and Compliance Team County Shared Revenues 238,000 400,000 162,000 000-50-365-000 Contribution Private Source Contributions 5,000 5,000 000-50-365-070 Animal Shelter Agreement Contributions : 77,500 77,500 000-70-334-010 CalRecycle Grant State Government Grant 27,200 27,200 630-80-341-030 Snack Shack Revenues General Government Revenues 25,000 35,000 10,000 Net Decrease in Revenues 6,088,000 5,934,400 (153,600)
Expenditure
000-50-421-23-131-000 Overtime Salaries 130,000 230,000 100,000 000-50-421-23-652-000 Special Departmental Supplies Supplies 20,000 40,000 20,000 000-50-421-23-652-001 Body Armor Replacement Supplies 9,000 15,000 6,000 000-50-421-61-741-000 Marine Equipment Capital Outlay 23,700 23,700 2,500
000-50-441-43-342-001 Veterinarian Services Professional/Technical Services 8,500 6,000 000-50-441-43-652-000 Special Departmental Supplies Supplies 3,000 18,000 15,000 630-80-451-15-652-001 Snack Shack Supplies Supplies 12,000 20,000 8,000 Net Increase in Expenditures 176,500 355,200 178,700
Transfers
000-50-421-23-822-505 Transfer to Central Garage Operating Transfers 200,000 200,000 630-80-451-15-822-503 Transfer to Recreation Building Operating Transfers 55,900 65,900 10,000 Net Increase in Transfers Out 55,900 265,900 210,000
Asset Forfeiture
Revenue
107-00-352-010 Asset Forfeiture Fines & Forfeitures 13,000 13,000 Net Increase in Revenues : 13,000 13,000
Expenditure
107-00-421-80-996-000 Asset Forfeiture Contingency 39,000 65,000 26,000 Net Increase in Expenditures 39,000 65,000 26,000
Measure A Fund
Revenue
114-00-335-040 Gasoline Sales Tax State Shared Revenues 805,000 757,000 (48,000) 114-00-335-060 Measure A STIP Trade State Shared Revenues 294,800 (294,800) Net Decrease in Revenues 294,800 (294,800)
Transfers
114-00-419-62-822-320 Transfer out Capital Street Projects Operating Transfers 2,143,900 20,000 (2,123,900) Net Decrease in Transfers Out 2,143,900 20,000 (2,123,900) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Revenue
121-00-331-010 CDBG Entitlements Federal Government Grants 40,400 40,400 Net Increase in Revenues : 40,400 40,400
Exhibit A to Resolution 2025-003 -197
City of Blythe
2024-2025 Budget Amendments
Account Detail
April 8, 2025

Page 2 of 2 ends

FY 2024-2025 FY 2024-2025
Adopted Proposed Increase /
G/LN Account Description Category Budget Amendment (Decrease) Capital Street Project Fund
Transfers
320-00-391-114 Transfer in Measure A Operating Transfers 2,143,900 20,000 (2,123,900) Net Decrease in Transfers In 2,143,900 20,000 (2,123,900) Expenditure
320-00-431-21-452-025 Street Projects - Design Property Services 300,000 10,000 (290,000) 320-00-431-21-452-031 6th Ave Road Improvements Property Services 1,843,900 10,000 (1,833,900) Net Decrease in Expenditures 2,143,900 20,000 (2,123,900) Water Utility Fund
Revenue
410-00-334-000 Urgent Drinking Water Needs Funding State Government Grant 500,000 326,800 (173,200) Net Decrease in Revenues 500,000 326,800 (173,200)
Sanitation Fund
Revenue
430-00-334-011 Organic Waste Recycling Grant State Government Grants 75,000 75,000 430-00-344-010 City Sanitation Charges Sanitation 881,000 1,219,000 338,000 Net Increase in Revenues 881,000 1,294,000 413,000
Expenditure
430-00-432-11-349-200 Franchise Contract Professional/Technical Services 962,000 1,317,000 355,000 430-00-432-11-637-000 Franchise Fees Supplies 136,000 189,000 53,000 Net Increase in Expenditures 1,098,000 1,506,000 408,000 Building Maintenance
Transfers
503-00-391-080 Transfer in Recreation Operating Transfers 55,900 65,900 10,000 Net Increase in Transfers In 55,900 65,900 10,000
Expenditure
503-80-451-29-432-000 Repair/Maintenance Services Property Services 3,900 8,500 4,600 503-80-451-29-647-000 Minor Equipment Supplies 2,800 2,800 503-80-451-29-652-000 Special Departmental Suppiies Supplies 4,180 6,780 2,600 Net Increase in Expenditures 8,080 18,080 10,000
Central Garage Fund
Transfers
505-00-391-025 Transfer in General Operating Transfers 200,000 200,000 Net Increase in Transfers In : 200,000 200,000
Workers Compensation Fund
Expenditure
509-00-419-62-522-000 PERMA Premiums Other Services 127,000 200,500 73,500 Net Increase in Expenditures 127,000 200,500 73,500
Hydrocarbon Cleanup Trust
Revenue
610-00-334-028 Hydrocarbon Cleanup - Plume #6 State Government Grants 58,000 58,000 Net Increase in Revenues : 58,000 58,000
Expenditure
610-00-419-62-452-027 Hydrocarbon Cleanup - Plume #6 Property Services : 58,000 58,000 Net Increase in Expenditures 58,000 58,000
Exhibit A to Resolution 2025-003 -198

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 08, 2025
SUBJECT: Hiring a Temporary, Part-Time Employee for the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP)
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mirasol Elegores, Public Works Director
Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended the City Council approve the hiring of one (1) part-time, temporary employee as a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator necessary due to staffing shortages at the Plant and adopt Resolution No. 2025-002, approving the revised schedule of authorized positions necessary for this action.

RESOLUTION NO. 2025-002. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE REVISED SCHEDULE OF AUTHORIZED POSITIONS.

FISCAL IMPACT: Not to exceed $15,000. Funding for the part-time temporary position is available in salary savings from the vacant Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor position created by the retirement of a long-time City employee in December.

BACKGROUND: The Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) has three budgeted operator positions and one budgeted Wastewater Treatment Plant supervisor position. Due to the recent retirement of the Plant Supervisor, there are currently three operators running the Plant. One of the operators went out on unexpected medical leave a few weeks ago. This created a critical staffing shortage at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

At the February 11* meeting, Council approved the appointment of Thomas Ecret as a Retired Annuitant in the Position of Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor. Mr. Ecret was to return as extra help, for 1-2 days per week while the City worked to find his replacement. However, this action has yet to be ratified by CalPERS. Mr. Ecret is unable to return to work until this happens.

This, coupled with an unexpected absence of another employee has left two operators to man a seven day a week operation. To complicate matters, only one of the two operators has the appropriate license (Grade II) to work as a lone operator at the plant. The City petitioned the State to allow the Grade I operator to be a "lone" operator due to the staffing shortages. It could take up to 60 days for the State to approve this request. Until that occurs; or Mr. Ecret may return to work, there is one operator who can work at the plant alone. He has not had a day off in several weeks. To provide him with some relief, staff looked at other options to fill this gap in employment on a short-term basis.

STAFF REPORT: Staff identified a previous employee of the City's WWTP, Victor Williams, who has a Grade II WWTP certification. The Grade Il license is required to work at the plant without the supervision of another operator. This would allow the City's Grade II Operator to take his days off. Mr. Willaims is willing to work for the City two days a week on a limited term. -199
This would allow current staff adequate days off while the long-term staffing issues at the plant are addressed. As having been previously employed at the Wastewater Treatment Plant from 2018 to 2021, Mr. Willaims is familiar with the WWTP and how it operates.

Mr. Williams will work at the plant on Sundays and Mondays until the Plant is no longer at critical staffing levels. If approved, Mr. Williams will report to work on Sunday, April 13, 2025.

Therefore, it is recommended the City Council approve the hiring of one (1) part-time, temporary employee as a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator necessary due to staffing shortages at the Plant and adopt Resolution No. 2025-002, approving the revised schedule of authorized positions necessary for this action.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Resolution No. 2025-002
-200
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-002

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

BLYTHE, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE REVISED

SCHEDULE OF AUTHORIZED POSITIONS
The City Council of the City of Blythe hereby finds and declares as follows:
adoping the Ops, oing and 1.ap2a Budgey Cor fiscal Year 20242025, in on th Schedule of Authorized Positions; and
WHEREAS, on December 10, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 2024-038, approving the revised Schedule of Authorized Positions; and WHEREAS, the City Council now desires to revise the Schedule of Authorized Positions as set forth in Exhibit "A," attached hereto and incorporated herein.

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

SECTION 1. The City Council hereby approves the revised Schedule of Authorized Positions as set forth in Exhibit A.

SECTION 2. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this resolution and enter it into the file of original resolutions.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Blythe at a regular meeting thereof held on the 8th day of April, 2025, by the following vote, to AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

ABSTAIN:

Joseph DeConinck, Mayor
Resolution No. 2025-002
-201
ATTEST:

Mallory Crecelius, City Clerk
(SEAL)
Resolution No. 2025-002
-202

EXHIBIT A

SCHEDULE OF AUTHORIZED POSITIONS
-203

CITY OF BLYTHE
Blythe CITY COUNCIL MEETING

STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 8, 2025
SUBJECT: Partnership with Blythe Chamber of Commerce on a Tourism and Economic Development Video Project
PRESENTED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY: Mallory Crecelius, Interim City Manager
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended Council authorize staff to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Blythe Chamber of Commerce for the production of a commercial length video and a series of short promotional clips and issue payment of $2,250 to the Blythe Chamber of Commerce.

FISCAL IMPACT: $2,250 from the General Fund.

BACKGROUND: Staff has been in pursuit of creating a video for use in the City's economic development efforts for several years. A few years ago, staff floated the idea to our partners during a Palo Verde Economic Alliance meeting. At that time, the Chamber had plans to produce a tourism video, with the use of volunteers. As there was no interest in partnering with the City on a video project, staff began pursuing other avenues for a video showcasing Blythe being "open for business". The City's PR Firm, Tripepi Smith submitted a quote for a video with their proposal for continued PR Servies, however funding was not allocated towards the project.

There is renewed interest from the Blythe Chamber in partnering with the City on a video project. Originally, the vision was to create two separate videos, one related to tourism for the STAFF REPORT: Proposals for a video project were received from the following:

JamSpot Media $22,500 for two commercials and supporting trailers $19,000 for one commercial and supporting trailer/video short TriPepi Smith $20,000 for a 1 min commercial, 10-15 photos and a 1 min social media video
$30,000 for a 1 min commercial, 20-30 photos and three 1 min social media videos
MT Entertainment $4,500 for a 2-3-minute commercial and short promotional clips (15-30 seconds each)
JamSnot Media and MT Entertainment presented their proposals to representatives of both the -204 Chamber and City. Tripepi Smith presented their proposal to City staff. Each company had impressive presentations, and would have produced high quality work for the City and Chamber.

However, MTE is willing to do the work a fraction of the cost. As he is a Chamber Member, and partners with the Chamber on events, he is offering his services at a much-discounted price, only recouping expense for staff time. City staff and the Chamber viewed samples of past work, and MTE's productions were found to be of high quality and had the look and feel of what the Chamber and City are looking for with this project.

To streamline the project, staff suggest the Chamber hire MT Entertainment for the project. The City and Chamber would execute a MOU with the Chamber. The MOU would outline our respective roles and responsibilities for this project. The City would issue payment for half of the cost of the video, $2,250 to the Chamber, once the video is reviewed and approved by the City.

Therefore, it is recommended Council authorize staff to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Chamber of Commerce for the production of a commercial length video and a series of short promotional clips and issue payment of $2,250 which is half the project cost to the Blythe Chamber of Commerce.

ATTACHMENTS:

1. MT Music & Entertainment Proposal
-205
MT
@MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
MT Music & Entertainment Inc.
45625 Citrus Ave, Unit A
Indio, CA 92201
Blythe Chamber of Commerce
Blythe, CA 92225
Subject: Proposal for Blythe Chamber of Commerce Tourism Project I hope this letter finds you well. My name/is Manuel Martinez, and I am the President of MT Music & Entertainment Inc. We are excited to present this proposal to collaborate with the City of Blythe Chamber of Commerce to develop a comprehensive tourism promotion campaign that higklights the unique attractions and opportunities our beautiful valley has to Our goal is to produce a commercial-length video along with a series of short promotional clips that will showcase Blythe's major events, outdoor activities, and entertainment options. These promotional materials will be tailored to enhance the city's focus on economic development, targeting major retailers such as Amazon, Grocery Outlet, and philanthropic investors interested in supporting and growing the local economy.

To successfully execute this project, we propose a production fee of $4,500, which will cover all aspects of video production, including scripting, filming, editing, and post-production.

Project Scope:

Main Commercial Video (2-3 minutes): A dynamic, high-quality film that encapsulates the essence of Blythe as a thriving, adventure-filled destination. • Short Promotional Clips (15-30 seconds each): A series of bite-sized videos highlighting key attractions such as:
• Outdoor adventures (hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and golfing). • Annual events & festivals that bring our community together. • Family-friendly activities & entertainment options.
-206
• The warm, welcoming culture of Blythe.

Example Video Script:

Looking for the perfect weekend getaway? Ready to leave the stress of the big city behind and experience the charm of a small-town oasis?
Come see for yourself why Blythe, California, is calling you! Nestled along the stunning Colorado River, Blythe is a small town packed with big fun and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to relax under the warm sun, cast a line and reel in the big one, or explore miles of scenic hiking trails, Blythe has something for everyone.

Imagine a place where you can enjoy water sports, play a round of golf with breathtaking desert views, or take a leisurely stroll through our charming downtown. From annual festivals that bring our community to life to the endless recreational opportunities in our backyard, Blythe is the perfect spot to visit, vacation, or even call home! Discover why Blythe is/more than just a stop on the map—it's a destination waiting to be explored. Experience the hospitality, adventure, and vibrant spirit of Blythe today! We are confident that this promotional campaign will serve as an invaluable tool in attracting visitors, businesses, and invèstors to Blythe. We look forward to working closely with the City of Blythe Chamber of Commerce to bring this vision to life and appreciate your consideration of this proposal.

Please feel free to reach out at your convenience to discuss further details. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate and showcase all that Blythe has to offer.

Best regards,
Manuel Martinez
President
MT Music & Entertainment Inc.
-207

REPORTS
-208
PUBLIC

COMMENT
-209

ADJOURN
-210

← All documents from this meeting